Five Favourites: Summer Salads

We're coming towards mid-July and I've suddenly realised over half the year has disappeared. Um how did that happen exactly? Good thing is, we're well into summer and also into the (in my opinion) best season for produce. There are so many delicious fruits and vegetables in season in these months, it makes having salads an absolute treat that just isn't quite the same in winter. I've definitely been enjoying some recently so I thought I'd share a few of my favourites, some of which are even better going into autumn to use all the upcoming seasonal veg...

Photo and recipe from Deliciously Ella

1. Aubergine, sun-dried tomato and pine nut salad from Deliciously Ella
I love sun-dried tomatoes, and I go through regular phases of being pretty obsessed with roasted aubergine so this is a dream. The chunky veg makes for a surprisingly filling salad and the tomatoes and pine nuts give this the most amazing flavours. Very moreish!

Photo and recipe from Tesco Real Food

2. Crab (or prawn), mango and avocado salad from Tesco Real Food
I cannot describe how incredible this tastes. The first time I tried this, we made it as a starter for a dinner party and I absolutely feel in love with the flavours. Anything that contains avocados is always an instant hit with me but with the chilli, lime and mangoes? Absolutely heavenly! I've never actually done this dish with crab, I've used prawns but I've been assured both tastes incredible and so light. Perfect for summer.

Photo and recipe from BBC Good Food

3. Feta tabbouleh and aubergines from BBC Good Food
Sorry, it's the aubergines again! But combined with feta gives this dish a bit of a greek flavour. Maybe not a salad in the traditional leaves-sense, but definitely a delicious cold dish which can be enjoyed in the sun. 

Photo and recipe from Minimalist Baker

4. Kale salad with crispy chickpeas from Minimalist Baker
If someone said food porn to me, this photo is basically what I would imagine. Baked chickpeas are my fairly newly discovered favourite snacks and additions to meals. Add them to the superfood kale, and you automatically have a winner. So yum. 

Photo and recipe from Cookie + Kate

5. Caprese pasta salad from Cookie + Kate
I don't think there is actually a combination more heavenly than perfectly ripe summer tomatoes and basil. I actually prefer this pasta salad cold, and I've also tried feta instead of mozzarella which is pretty incredible. Either way is delicious though, and so simple and quick. Kate is onto a winner with this one!


What are your favourite foods in summer? Comment below if you know of any great recipes!