These Salads Fill You Up and Cool You Down

When it’s hot outside, the last thing you want is a heavy meal—but that doesn’t mean you have to skip something filling. These salads are cool, refreshing, and still hearty enough to keep you going. They’re a great option for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.

From protein-packed grains to crisp veggies and flavorful dressings, these recipes bring together ingredients that are both light and satisfying. They’re easy to make and can be adjusted to fit your preferences or what you have on hand.

You’ll find options with chicken, beans, pasta, and more—each one built to be refreshing and still feel like a real meal. Whether you’re eating indoors or enjoying the weather, these salads are a practical way to stay full and beat the heat.

BLT Pasta Salad

This hearty mix of crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce tossed with pasta brings a fun twist to a familiar favorite. It’s perfect for picnics or potlucks, holding up well even after sitting out for a bit. A creamy dressing ties it all together without being too heavy.
Get the Recipe: BLT Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad

A fresh and creamy take on classic elote, this salad brings together charred corn, cotija cheese, lime, and just the right amount of spice. It’s great served warm or chilled, and pairs well with grilled meats. A little smoky, a little tangy, and a whole lot of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Taco Pasta Salad

Think taco night meets pasta salad — complete with seasoned ground beef, cheese, black beans, and crushed tortilla chips for crunch. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but also works as a bold side. A creamy salsa dressing adds a punch without being overpowering.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

Moroccan pearl couscous salad

This salad combines pearl couscous with dried fruits, chickpeas, and warm spices for a rich mix of textures. Fresh herbs and a citrusy vinaigrette keep it light and bright. It’s a colorful option that works well warm or chilled.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan pearl couscous salad

Tortellini Salad

Cheese-stuffed tortellini is the base here, tossed with crisp vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s filling without being too rich, making it great for lunch or a side dish. You can easily switch up the veggies depending on what’s in your fridge.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Salad

Ranch Pasta Salad With Bacon

Cool, creamy ranch dressing paired with smoky bacon and crisp veggies gives this salad a crowd-pleasing edge. It’s simple, but always a hit at BBQs and gatherings. The pasta holds up well in the fridge, making it ideal for prepping ahead.
Get the Recipe: Ranch Pasta Salad With Bacon

Mixed Berry Pretzel Salad

This sweet-and-salty combo features a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy filling, and a berry topping that feels like summer in a bowl. It’s technically a salad, but leans dessert in the best way. Serve it chilled for best texture.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Berry Pretzel Salad

Summer Orzo Salad

Tiny orzo pasta blends with fresh seasonal veggies and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing dish. It’s easy to customize and pairs well with grilled mains. Bright herbs give it extra flavor without needing a heavy dressing.
Get the Recipe: Summer Orzo Salad

Kale Quinoa Salad

This one’s all about texture: chewy quinoa, hearty kale, and whatever mix-ins you like—from seeds to fruit. A lemony dressing balances everything out. It’s great made ahead, since the kale holds up well over time.
Get the Recipe: Kale Quinoa Salad

Vegan Couscous salad

Fluffy couscous, crunchy veggies, and a tangy dressing come together in a light, plant-based dish. It’s easy to whip up and works well for meal prep or a potluck side. Add chickpeas or nuts if you want more heft.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous salad

Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Raw broccoli, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing combine in a bold, crunchy salad. A touch of sweetness from dried cranberries or raisins adds contrast. It’s sturdy, easy to prep ahead, and always disappears fast.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Mustard Potato Salad

Creamy with a mustardy kick, this potato salad balances tang and richness. Add chopped pickles or celery for crunch. It’s a classic side that pairs well with grilled or roasted mains.
Get the Recipe: Mustard Potato Salad

Pesto Orzo Salad

Orzo pasta is coated in fresh pesto, tossed with veggies or mozzarella for a flavorful, easy dish. It’s vibrant without being heavy. Perfect warm or cold, and great for using up garden basil.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Mexican Macaroni Salad

This creamy salad gets its edge from a mix of southwestern ingredients—corn, beans, peppers, and a spiced mayo-lime dressing. It’s got great flavor and enough texture to keep things interesting. A fun twist on the usual pasta salad.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Macaroni Salad

Cucumber Onion Salad

Light and crisp, this salad combines thinly sliced cucumbers and onions in a simple vinegar-based dressing. It’s refreshing and pairs beautifully with richer mains. Let it chill a bit before serving for the best flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Onion Salad

Carrot Raisin Salad

Shredded carrots and plump raisins mix with a lightly sweetened dressing for a classic side dish. It’s a great option when you want something crunchy and a little nostalgic. Sometimes a handful of nuts adds a nice touch.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Raisin Salad

Cherry Salad

This creamy dessert-style salad features cherries and usually some mix of whipped topping, marshmallows, or pineapple. It’s a family favorite at many potlucks. Serve cold for a cool contrast to savory dishes.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Salad

Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Uncooked ramen noodles bring serious crunch to this slaw-style salad, along with a sesame-soy dressing. It’s quick to make and brings a nice change from the usual greens. Add almonds or sunflower seeds for extra texture.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Using rotisserie chicken keeps things easy while adding protein to this creamy, savory pasta salad. Throw in some veggies and a flavorful dressing and you’ve got a complete meal or hearty side. It’s perfect for using up leftovers too.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Layered Salad

This one’s all about presentation layers of lettuce, veggies, cheese, and bacon topped with a creamy dressing. It’s best assembled a few hours ahead so flavors can meld without the lettuce wilting. Great for feeding a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Layered Salad

Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Chopped broccoli and cauliflower form a crunchy base, with a creamy dressing and add-ins like bacon or sunflower seeds. It’s colorful, holds up well, and offers something a little different. Great chilled and even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cauliflower Salad