10 Refreshing Summer Salads for BBQ

Summer is here, and with it comes the perfect excuse to fire up the grill and host a BBQ. While burgers and hot dogs are staples, no BBQ is complete without a variety of refreshing summer salads to complement the smoky flavors. Here are ten sizzling summer salads that will elevate your BBQ game and keep your guests coming back for more.

1. Grilled Cabbage Wedges with Creamy Caraway Dressing

This show-stopping salad is a unique twist on traditional greens. By charring cabbage wedges and dressing them in a creamy, herby vinaigrette, you create a dish that’s both visually appealing and packed with flavor1. 

Pro Tip: Use a grill mat to prevent cabbage from falling through the grates.

2. Southwest BBQ Summer Salad

Inspired by Tex-Mex flavors, this salad combines black beans, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and toasted chickpeas with a sweet, smoky BBQ dressing. It’s a hearty, refreshing option that’s fully vegetarian and loaded with plant-based protein2. 

Customization Tip: Add crumbled feta cheese or swap out the dressing for an Italian vinaigrette.

3. Tomato and Charred Pepper Farro Salad

This colorful grain salad highlights the best of summer produce with juicy grape tomatoes and smoky charred peppers. It’s perfect for showcasing the season’s bounty1. 

Pro Tip: Use a variety of bell peppers for a pop of color.

4. Wedge Salad with Creamy Herb Dressing

Elevate the classic wedge salad by adding fresh herbs to the dressing. This steakhouse favorite gets a summer twist with a spoonful of Dijon mustard1. 

Tip: Use a variety of fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil.

5. Ranch Slaw

A crunchy slaw made with carrots, cabbage, cucumbers, and scallions is elevated by zesty ranch dressing. It’s a must-have for any BBQ1. 

Pro Tip: Add some sugar snap peas for extra crunch.

6. Cucumber Radish Salad

This colorful spring salad is both aesthetically pleasing and texturally interesting. Prepare radishes in various ways to add depth1. 

Tip: Use thinly sliced radishes for a delicate crunch.

7. Shaved Fennel and Celery Salad

Perfect for balancing rich grilled meats, this salad offers salty notes that complement a ribeye beautifully1. 

Pro Tip: Grill the fennel slightly for added depth.

8. BBQ Chickpea and Grilled Nectarine Salad

Grill spiced chickpeas and sweet nectarines to create a smoky, flavorful salad that’s perfect for summer1. 

Tip: Use a cast-iron skillet for even grilling.

9. Roasted Beet and Orange Salad

This earthy salad combines roasted beets with oranges for a sweet and salty mix. It’s a great way to add some color to your BBQ spread1. 

Pro Tip: Slice beets into rounds to reduce cooking time.

10. Thai Green Papaya Salad

For a spicy kick, try this super fresh Thai-inspired salad. It pairs perfectly with grilled proteins and adds a unique twist to your BBQ menu1. 

Tip: Use fresh chilies for an authentic flavor.

These salads offer a variety of textures, flavors, and ingredients to ensure your BBQ is both memorable and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a small family dinner, these recipes will help you create a summer BBQ that everyone will love.