19 Summer Salads for BBQs Everyone Will Beg You to Make Again

Tired of the same old soggy coleslaw or over-mayo’d potato salad? This summer, bring a fresh, flavorful dish to the cookout that actually gets devoured. These 19 salads are bright, bold, and built to stand out on the BBQ table—easy to prep, crowd-friendly, and guaranteed to have everyone asking for the recipe.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad

Imagine the vibrant flavors of elote, but in a bowl. Mexican Street Corn Salad combines charred corn with crumbly cotija cheese, a splash of lime juice, and a sprinkle of chili powder, all garnished with fresh cilantro. Each bite is a delightful mix of smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors.

The salad can be served warm or chilled, making it versatile for any BBQ setting. It’s a dish that transports you straight to a bustling Mexican street corner, where elote vendors serve this classic favorite.

The best part? It’s as easy to prepare as it is to devour.

2. Watermelon, Feta & Mint Salad

Refreshment in a bowl: juicy watermelon, crumbly feta, and fresh mint unite in this summer salad. The salty feta perfectly complements the sweetness of the watermelon, while the mint and lime add an extra cooling touch, making it an amazing side for hot days.

This salad offers a burst of flavor with every bite—sweet, salty, and refreshing. It’s a crowd-pleaser that stands out at any BBQ, offering a unique blend of taste and texture.

Perfect for those who crave a light yet flavorful dish, it’s simplicity at its finest.

3. BLT Pasta Salad

Transform a classic sandwich into a delightful salad with this BLT Pasta Salad. It features crispy bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh lettuce tossed with pasta, all enveloped in a creamy, tangy dressing. Each mouthful is reminiscent of your favorite BLT, but with a twist.

The pasta adds a heartiness that turns this dish into more than just a side—it’s a meal. Perfect for a BBQ or picnic, it offers both familiarity and novelty, making it a hit with guests.

Quick to make, it’s sure to become a barbecue staple.

4. Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad

Succulent grilled peaches paired with creamy burrata create a heavenly combination in this salad. Add peppery arugula and a balsamic drizzle, and you have an elegant dish that captivates both the eyes and the palate.

The grilling enhances the peaches’ sweetness, creating a delightful contrast with the creamy burrata. It’s a salad that’s both sophisticated and simple, perfect for impressing guests at any summer gathering.

Whether as a starter or a side, its unique flavors make it unforgettable.

5. Tangy Cucumber Salad

Crisp and refreshing, this Tangy Cucumber Salad is the epitome of simplicity. With thinly sliced cucumbers, a splash of vinegar, fresh dill, and a hint of sugar, it’s a dish that’s endlessly refreshing.

The tartness of the vinegar is beautifully balanced by the sweetness of the sugar and the herbaceous dill. Perfect for a hot summer day, it’s a palate cleanser that pairs well with anything from the grill.

It’s a dish that invites you to take another bite.

6. Caprese Salad with a Twist

The classic Caprese gets a summer makeover with grilled zucchini or peaches. Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil form the base, while the grilled elements add a fresh twist.

It’s an elegant yet simple dish that offers a burst of flavor with every bite. The grilling brings out the natural sweetness of the zucchini or peaches, enhancing the traditional Caprese flavors.

Serve it as a starter or a side—it’s a versatile dish that complements any BBQ spread.

7. Loaded Ranch Potato Salad

This Loaded Ranch Potato Salad is comfort in a bowl. Featuring crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, green onions, and creamy ranch dressing, it’s a salad that satisfies.

Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors—rich, savory, and hearty. It’s the perfect side for any BBQ, offering a comforting twist on traditional potato salad.

Easy to prepare, it’s sure to become a favorite among both kids and adults alike.

8. BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad

Hearty and satisfying, the BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad is packed with flavor. Shredded grilled chicken, crunchy corn, black beans, creamy avocado, and BBQ ranch dressing come together in this meal-worthy dish.

Perfectly balanced, each ingredient complements the next, creating a harmonious blend of taste and texture. It’s not just a salad; it’s a meal that’s robust enough to stand on its own.

Ideal for BBQs or as a quick dinner, it’s a dish that leaves an impression.

9. Greek Orzo Salad

Light and flavorful, the Greek Orzo Salad is a refreshing addition to any summer table. Lemony vinaigrette coats orzo pasta, with feta, olives, cucumber, and fresh herbs adding depth and flavor.

The vibrant ingredients meld into a harmonious blend, offering a taste of the Mediterranean with every bite. It’s a salad that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Ideal for those seeking a lighter dish, it’s perfect for hot summer days.

10. Asian Ramen Noodle Slaw

Turn your BBQ into a global affair with this Asian Ramen Noodle Slaw. Crunchy cabbage, toasted ramen noodles, and almonds are tossed in a tangy sesame-soy dressing for a dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

The contrasting textures and flavors make it a standout dish—crunchy, nutty, and savory. It’s a fresh take on traditional slaw, adding an Asian flair to your summer spread.

Perfect for those who love bold flavors, it’s a guaranteed hit.

11. Tomato, Cucumber & Red Onion Salad

Simple yet flavorful, this Tomato, Cucumber & Red Onion Salad is a staple at any summer gathering. Fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions are tossed in vinegar and olive oil, creating a dish that gets better the longer it marinates.

It’s a salad that celebrates fresh produce, with each ingredient shining through. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld, making it an ideal make-ahead dish.

Refreshing and light, it’s a perfect pairing for grilled entrees.

12. Grilled Corn & Avocado Salad

Sweet grilled corn and creamy avocado unite in this refreshing salad. Tossed with a light lime dressing, it’s a dish that’s balanced and bright.

The sweetness of the corn complements the richness of the avocado, while the lime dressing adds a zesty kick. It’s a salad that pairs perfectly with any grilled dish.

Ideal for those who enjoy fresh and vibrant flavors, it’s a dish that captures the essence of summer.

13. Pasta Salad with Pesto & Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Bold and herby, this Pasta Salad with Pesto & Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a flavor explosion. Toss cooked pasta with pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella, and arugula for a dish that’s full of life.

Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, from the chewy sun-dried tomatoes to the creamy mozzarella. The pesto ties everything together, adding a herby punch.

Perfect for those who love bold flavors, it’s a standout dish at any BBQ.

14. Spicy Peach & Tomato Salad

A summer revelation, the Spicy Peach & Tomato Salad combines juicy tomatoes with sweet peaches, dressed with chili oil and basil.

The sweetness of the peaches and tomatoes is balanced by the spicy kick of the chili oil, creating a dish that’s sweet, spicy, and irresistibly good. It’s a salad that captures the essence of summer in every bite.

Ideal for those who love a bit of heat, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress.

15. Southwest Quinoa Salad

Packed with protein, the Southwest Quinoa Salad is both nutritious and flavorful. Black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime-cilantro vinaigrette come together in a dish that’s vibrant and filling.

Each ingredient adds its unique texture and flavor, creating a harmonious blend that’s perfect for vegetarians and gluten-free eaters. It’s a salad that satisfies, whether as a side or a main.

Ideal for health-conscious eaters, it’s a dish that nourishes and delights.

16. Italian Chopped Salad

The Italian Chopped Salad is like an antipasto platter in a bowl. Salami, provolone, chickpeas, pepperoncini, and olives are tossed with crisp lettuce and a red wine vinaigrette. Each bite is a delightful mix of savory and tangy flavors.

The variety of ingredients creates a complex and satisfying dish that’s both hearty and refreshing. It’s a salad that brings a taste of Italy to your BBQ.

Perfect for those who love bold flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser.

17. Strawberry Spinach Salad

A perfect summer combination, Strawberry Spinach Salad brings together fresh strawberries, baby spinach, goat cheese, and candied pecans, all drizzled with a balsamic glaze.

The sweet strawberries and candied pecans contrast beautifully with the tangy goat cheese and balsamic glaze, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and indulgent. It’s a salad that celebrates the best of summer produce.

Ideal for those who love a mix of sweet and savory, it’s a delightful addition to any table.

18. Couscous Salad with Roasted Veggies

Light yet filling, the Couscous Salad with Roasted Veggies is a picnic-approved dish. Fluffy couscous is paired with grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and a lemony dressing for a dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.

The roasted vegetables add a depth of flavor, while the couscous provides a satisfying base. It’s a salad that’s perfect for those who want a light but filling dish.

Ideal for picnics or BBQs, it’s a dish that’s sure to please.

19. Cold Sesame Noodle Salad

Bold in flavor but light on mayo, the Cold Sesame Noodle Salad is a refreshing dish for hot days. Chilled noodles and crunchy veggies are tossed in a creamy peanut-sesame dressing for a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

The creamy dressing coats each noodle, while the veggies add a delightful crunch. It’s a salad that’s perfect for those who love Asian flavors.

Ideal for summer BBQs, it’s a dish that’s both refreshing and hearty.