By April Riles
Summer’s warmth invites fresh flavors, vibrant colors, and carefree dining. Here are five sensational salads that capture the essence of the season—complete with easy-to-follow recipes and perfect wine pairings to elevate your table.
1. Peach Basil Summer Salad Bowl 🌿
Recipe:
4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
1 ripe peach, sliced
½ cup cooked quinoa
½ cup cooked chickpeas
¼ cup thin-sliced red onion
½ cup fresh mozzarella pearls
Peach-Basil Vinaigrette:
1 ripe peach, peeled & diced
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp honey
6 basil leaves
Pinch of salt & pepper
Blend until smooth.
Assembly: Toss all salad ingredients with vinaigrette.
Wine Pairing: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc offers zesty citrus and green notes that highlight the basil and peaches.
2. Peach, Cucumber & Basil Salad 🥒
Recipe:
1 large cucumber, diced
1–2 ripe peaches, diced
Handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
Dressing:
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp honey
Drizzle over salad and toss gently.
Wine Pairing: A dry Rosé with fruity undertones complements the peaches and cool cucumber without overpowering the salad.
3. Rainbow Melon, Tomato & Feta Salad 🍉
Recipe:
1 cup watermelon cubes
1 cup cantaloupe cubes
1 cup honeydew cubes
1 cup heirloom tomato wedges
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
Handful fresh mint or basil
Dressing:
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lime
Salt & pepper to taste
Toss with salad ingredients.
Wine Pairing: A chilled Albariño brings bright acidity and stone-fruit aromas that pair beautifully with melon and cheese.
4. Summer Seeded Green Bowl 🌾
Recipe:
4 cups mixed greens
½ cup diced bell peppers
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup cucumbers, diced
3 tbsp mixed seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, sesame)
Dressing:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
½ tsp Dijon mustard
Whisk together and toss with salad.
Wine Pairing: A light-bodied Pinot Grigio or Vermentino complements the salad’s fresh veggies and seed crunch.
5. Broccoli, Pea, Radish & Peach Medley 🌸
Recipe:
2 cups broccoli florets, blanched
1 cup fresh peas or thawed frozen peas
½ cup sliced radishes
1 ripe peach, sliced
2 tbsp sunflower or pumpkin seeds
Use the same Peach-Basil Vinaigrette from salad #1, or another herby dressing, to toss this combination.
Wine Pairing: A crisp Verdejo (like Rueda) balances sweet peaches and fresh vegetables with herbal nuance.
Salad Rituals for a Memorable Summer Evening
1) Prep in Advance: Chop produce early and refrigerate; seal dressing until ready to serve.
2) Dress Just Before Serving: Keeps textures crisp and colors bright.
3) Layer Flavors & Textures: Start with greens, add fruits/veggies, finish with cheese or seeds.
4) Mindful Presentation: Serve in clear bowls or layer ingredients by color—it uplifts the experience.
Why These Salads Work
Each brings something different: the smoky-sweet of peach-basil; the harmonious freshness of melon with feta; the earthy crunch of seeds; or the garden-fresh vibe of radishes and broccoli. Paired thoughtfully with wine, they become more than meals—they become summer experiences.
These salads aren’t just good food—they’re a celebration of sun-ripened produce, convivial gatherings, and effortless summer style. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening, these bowls bring flavor, color, and delight.
