This is the absolute BEST time of year for fresh, tasty salads. I’m not talking blah, blah boring iceberg lettuce with some baby carrots thrown in. I’m talking all the scrumptious, local, seasonal vegetables that are bursting at the seams right now. 

For me, my home-made go-to is a base of Bibb Lettuce and Baby Spinach from my garden. Several years ago I discovered the “Sungold” variety of cherry tomatoes. A sweet, juicy tomato with an orange skin. Those definitely go in. I prefer small (less seeds) cucumbers, so I grow pickling cukes (but must admit I don’t do much pickling!) Some earthy tasting carrots from the ground, celery that I get at the farmer’s market and sweet red peppers. Toss it with an herbed oil & vinegar, or a caesar if I’m feeling adventurous and add some grilled chicken and avocado. If someone told me I could only eat the same meal for the rest of my life, I think I could survive on this. 

But don’t get me wrong. The beauty of this time of year is that it’s oh-so-easy to branch out and find a multitude of healthy, hearty, delicious salads. Here’s some ideas for your next lunch or dinner! 

• Fresh Peach Salad  (from A Couple Cooks)

• Blackberry Chévre Salad  (from The Modern Proper)

• Summer Salmon Nicoise  (from bon appetit)

• Grilled Corn with Cilantro Vinaigrette  (from The Pioneer Woman)

• Watermelon, Feta and Mint Salad  (from Serious Eats)

• Tomato Burrata Salad  (from Fifteen Spatulas)

• Grilled Romaine Caesar salad  (from Vindulge)