When the temperature rises and the heat remains constant, finding the right food to keep you cool and satisfied can be challenging. Heavy meals often feel uncomfortable in hot weather, making salads a perfect choice. They are light, nutritious, and can be full of exciting flavors that help you stay refreshed throughout the day.
In this article, we will share seven easy-to-make salads that are perfect for 90°F weather, especially for those living in India where the summers can get intense. From sweet grilled peaches paired with creamy burrata to the classic cooling cucumber salad, these recipes bring variety and freshness to your table.
Grilled Peach Burrata Salad
This salad is a wonderful mix of sweet and creamy tastes, perfect for hot days. Start by grilling ripe peaches until they have nice char marks, which enhances their natural sweetness. Place the grilled peaches on a bed of fresh greens like arugula or spinach. Add soft burrata cheese for creaminess and drizzle with a little olive oil and honey for extra flavor. Top it off with a sprinkle of crushed nuts like pistachios or almonds for some crunch.
Smashed Cucumber Salad
Smashed cucumber salad is a fantastic choice when you want something quick, crunchy, and cooling. Use fresh cucumbers and gently smash them using the side of a knife to break them up but keep their shape. Toss the cucumbers with salt, a little vinegar or lemon juice, and chili flakes for a spicy kick. Add finely chopped garlic and fresh coriander leaves for added taste. This salad is light and refreshes your body even in the hottest weather.
Watermelon and Feta Salad
Watermelon and feta is a classic combo that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors. Cut the juicy watermelon into small cubes and combine it with crumbled feta cheese. Add thin slices of red onion and fresh mint leaves to enhance the taste. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and a squeeze of lime for a tangy finish. This salad is not only refreshing but also hydrates your body with watermelon’s high water content.
Chickpea and Tomato Salad
This protein-packed salad is both healthy and filling without feeling heavy. Mix boiled chickpeas with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and green chilies if you like it spicy. Add fresh coriander or mint leaves for a fresh twist. Season with lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. It’s easy to prepare and great for quick lunches, especially when the weather makes you avoid hot, cooked meals.
Mango and Avocado Salad
Nothing screams summer like mango, and when paired with creamy avocado, it becomes a delicious, nutritious salad. Chop ripe mango and avocado into cubes and add finely chopped red onion and green chili for some heat. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Dress this salad simply with lime juice and a little salt. It’s a perfect mix of sweet, creamy, and tangy flavors to enjoy in hot weather.
Minty Carrot and Peanut Salad
This salad is crunchy, mildly spicy, and refreshing all at once. Grate fresh carrots and toss them with roasted peanuts for crunch. Add finely chopped mint leaves and a little green chili for heat. Season with lemon juice, salt, and a pinch of chats masala to give it an Indian twist. It’s low in calories, high in flavor, and keeps you feeling light.
Mixed Green Salad with Pomegranate Seeds
A salad full of colors and textures, mixed greens with pomegranate seeds is both tasty and healthy. Use a combination of lettuce, spinach, and arugula leaves, and sprinkle fresh pomegranate seeds on top. Add diced cucumber and thinly sliced onions for extra crunch. Dress it with a simple vinaigrette made of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The juicy pop of pomegranate seeds adds a delightful sweetness to this vibrant salad.
