Potluck-Perfect Summer Salads (No One Leaves Without the Recipe)

Summer potlucks call for dishes that are fresh, easy to share, and full of flavor—and salads are always a hit. Whether you’re bringing a side or the main event, the right salad can stand out and be the first thing to disappear. These recipes are crowd-pleasers that tend to get people asking for seconds (and the recipe).

From pasta salads loaded with veggies to crisp greens with bold dressings, there’s a lot to love about summer salads. They’re simple to make ahead, easy to transport, and hold up well on the buffet table. You’ll find options that are light, hearty, and everything in between.

Great for backyard BBQs, picnics, or casual get-togethers, these salads are built for sharing. With fresh ingredients and creative combos, they’re made to impress without a lot of fuss. You’ll want to keep these in your rotation all season long.

BLT Pasta Salad

Think of your favorite sandwich reimagined with tender pasta, crisp bacon, juicy tomatoes, and fresh lettuce, all tossed in a creamy dressing. It’s simple but always a hit at potlucks or casual get-togethers. The combo of textures keeps every bite interesting.
Get the Recipe: BLT Pasta Salad

Pesto Orzo Salad

This one’s all about fresh flavor in a small package—tiny orzo pasta mixed with basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and maybe a bit of cheese. It works great as a side or a light meal. Serve chilled or room temp—it’s flexible like that.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Layered Salad

Layers of crisp veggies, creamy dressing, and crunchy toppings make this one stand out visually and flavor-wise. It’s ideal for prepping ahead and letting everything meld together in the fridge. Bring this to a gathering, and it’ll get attention before anyone even takes a bite.
Get the Recipe: Layered Salad

Taco Pasta Salad

Everything you love about tacos—ground meat, cheese, veggies, and a little spice—gets tossed with pasta in this fun twist. It’s great cold and perfect for casual meals or summer dinners. Add crushed chips on top for extra crunch.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

Moroccan pearl couscous salad

Warm spices meet bright citrus in this colorful mix featuring pearl couscous, dried fruit, and herbs. It’s hearty enough for lunch and packs well for picnics. You’ll probably want to make extra—it disappears quickly.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan pearl couscous salad

Cherry Salad

Sweet, tangy, and creamy all at once—this salad blends cherries with fluffier textures like whipped topping or cream cheese. It’s a nostalgic dish that’s often more dessert than salad. Great for holidays or a sweet touch at a potluck.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Salad

Tortellini Salad

Cheese-stuffed tortellini makes this heartier than your typical pasta salad. Toss in veggies, salami, or olives, and you’ve got something you can serve as a full meal or a side. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels just a little extra.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Salad

Ranch Pasta Salad With Bacon

Creamy ranch, crispy bacon, and pasta are a classic combo for good reason. Add in some peas or shredded cheese, and it’s a comfort food kind of dish. It keeps well and tastes even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Ranch Pasta Salad With Bacon

Mexican Macaroni Salad

This one packs bold flavor—think creamy dressing with a kick, sweet corn, and plenty of spices. Macaroni gives it that familiar feel while the add-ins keep it interesting. It’s perfect for BBQs or casual dinners.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Macaroni Salad

Mixed Berry Pretzel Salad

Sweet berries, salty pretzels, and a creamy layer make this one part salad, part dessert. It’s chilled, crunchy, and a favorite at summer events. People usually ask for the recipe after trying it.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Berry Pretzel Salad

Vegan Couscous salad

Light and colorful, this plant-based dish brings together couscous, fresh veggies, and a citrusy dressing. It’s quick to make and super adaptable—great for meal prep or adding to your weekly rotation. You won’t miss the meat.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous salad

Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Crunchy broccoli, sharp cheese, and smoky bacon come together with a creamy dressing in this classic combo. It holds up well in the fridge and pairs nicely with grilled meats. Even non-broccoli fans tend to enjoy this one.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Kale Quinoa Salad

Nutritious and filling, this salad features tender quinoa and hearty kale, balanced with nuts or dried fruit. It’s good right away but even better after sitting for a bit. Makes for an easy lunch that doesn’t feel boring.
Get the Recipe: Kale Quinoa Salad

Carrot Raisin Salad

This sweet and crunchy salad mixes shredded carrots, raisins, and a light dressing. It’s one of those dishes that works just as well with sandwiches as it does on its own. Simple, quick, and unexpectedly tasty.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Raisin Salad

Mustard Potato Salad

Creamy with a little tang, this version leans into mustard for a bold kick. Soft potatoes soak up all that flavor, while pickles or onions can add a nice bite. Great for backyard meals or making ahead.
Get the Recipe: Mustard Potato Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Inspired by elote, this salad has grilled corn, lime, and a creamy, slightly spicy dressing. It’s rich without being heavy and works well as a side or taco topping. Add some cilantro for freshness.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Cucumber Onion Salad

Cool and crisp, this simple salad features thinly sliced cucumbers and onions in a vinegar-based dressing. It’s refreshing and perfect for hot weather. Let it chill first for the best flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Onion Salad

Summer Orzo Salad

Light and lemony, this salad combines orzo with seasonal veggies and herbs. It’s easy to throw together and great for packing in lunchboxes or serving at a picnic. It keeps things fresh without trying too hard.
Get the Recipe: Summer Orzo Salad

Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Uncooked ramen noodles add an unexpected crunch to this salad full of cabbage, nuts, and a slightly sweet dressing. It’s fast, fun, and a little retro. Always a conversation starter at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Using store-bought chicken makes this one super easy—just mix with pasta, veggies, and a creamy or vinaigrette dressing. It’s filling enough for dinner and great for using up leftovers. Meal prep made simple.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Raw broccoli and cauliflower get a creamy dressing makeover in this crunchy, colorful mix. Add-ins like bacon, cheese, or seeds make it more interesting. It’s a solid choice for cookouts or potluck tables.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cauliflower Salad