It’s been a long spring. The murder of George Floyd, protests, Covid-19, social distancing, distance learning, not to mention economic destruction for many. It’s been dark and heavy. But summer is coming and I, for one, believe it’s going to the best summer ever (despite my trip to Barcelona and Italy being cancelled-BOO!). And let me tell you why…ending with these amazing summer salads.
Summer is coming. And with it, I am praying that we remember the lessons that we have learned this spring. Black Lives Matter, standing up for what you believe in, protest to enact change, social justice is unbelievably important. We learned that over scheduled kids, over scheduled adults, and meetings that can’t be done while in your pajamas get a two thumbs down. We’ve gratefully prioritized self care, introspection, and more family time. THERE IS SO, SO MANY AMAZING LESSONS THAT WE HAVE LEARNED THIS SPRING!
Yes, that last sentence was meant to be in all shouty caps, because I think that the lessons of the spring 2020 are so important that they need to be emphasized over and over-so they aren’t forgotten. None of these are new lessons (well, maybe the lesson that meetings in pajamas is bomb) but they have never been hit home as hard as this spring. What does this have to do with food? Hang on, oh impatient one, I’m getting there!
I have also learned that I cannot live on take out and pasta alone (and for the last 2 weeks my family has given it our best shot). Although I did really well at the beginning of quarantine- making meal plans, prioritizing healthy, well balanced meals, and cooking like my life depended on it, I am now tired. As I think so many of us are. So here are a few options for quick and easy summer salads that can double as your dinner.
Amazing summer salads
Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing
A short time on the grill and some crispy summer vegetables, and this tasty salad is ready for dinner. Top it with this easy to make blue cheese dressing (which also doubles as a great dip for celery sticks)!
Grilled Peach and Herb Panzanella Salad
Ripe, juicy peaches, protein packed white beans, zingy red onions and cubed bread to soak up the dressing, makes this Grilled Peach and Herb Panzanella Salad the perfect choice for lunch or dinner.
Cobb Salad with Creamy Gorgonzola Dressing
Not for my vegetarian friends, this salad’s staying power is built on rotisserie chicken and bacon. With the addition of eggs, avocados, and a sprinkle of blue cheese, this salad hits all of the major food groups.
Asian Chicken Salad with Grilled Vegetables
One of my favorite flavor profiles, this salad is heavy on the veggies. Soy sauce, ginger, and lime juice combine to make an asian inspired dressing that highlights the otherwise simple chicken and vegetables.
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Couscous tastes like summer to me. But never more than when mixed with cucumbers, green onions, tomatoes, and white beans. Try this one. You won’t be sorry. And it makes amazing leftovers!
Southwest Salad with Cilantro Chipotle Dressing
Another of my favorite flavor profiles, this Southwest inspired summer salad screams delicious. Add black beans and grilled chicken to an amazing cilantro chipotle dressing and you have yourself my favorite lunch.
Spinach Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing
Sometimes life calls for simple (LIKE RIGHT NOW!). This simple summer salad won’t let you down. Simple fresh ingredients, simple dressing, simple to make. Perfection.
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