Simple Summer Salad Recipes (Easy Summer Salads)

feta cheese

🥗Healthier: cottage cheese

💰Cheaper: ricotta cheese

Cottage cheese reduces fat while still providing protein.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: sunflower oil

Avocado oil offers similar health benefits with a different flavor.

mixed greens

🥗Healthier: spinach

💰Cheaper: iceberg lettuce

Spinach is nutrient-dense while iceberg is more economical.

lemon juice

🥗Healthier: lime juice

💰Cheaper: vinegar

Lime juice provides a similar tang, while vinegar is often less expensive.

Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water.

In a pot, combine 1 cup quinoa and 2 cups water, bring to a boil.

Reduce heat, cover partially, and simmer for about 15 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.

Set quinoa aside to cool.

Trim tough ends off asparagus and lay on a rimmed baking sheet.

Drizzle asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roll to coat.

Roast asparagus in a 425 degree oven for about 8 to 10 minutes until tender but still with a bite.

Cut roasted asparagus into 1-inch pieces after cooling.

In a spouted cup, combine 1/4 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 2 cloves crushed garlic, sea salt, and black pepper, and whisk together.

In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, chopped roasted asparagus, 1 can drained and rinsed chickpeas, and 1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions.

Drizzle dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.

Before serving, add fresh crumbled feta cheese and fresh mint.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens