Fan Favorite Summer Salads
Even though it is damp and chilly here in NYC, I am in full summer mode, enjoying the outstanding local produce and carefree, low-lift meals the season calls for. Of course, salads are central to that, so here I’m sharing a few fan favorite salad recipes— among those that get the most rave reviews online. Enjoy!
Sweet-Tart Slaw with Fig Dressing
Photo: Stacy Zarin Goldberg for The Washington Post
This gem-colored slaw of red cabbage, carrot, onion and sunflower seeds has a luscious, punchy dressing that gets its sweetness healthfully from dried figs, rather than the typical refined sugar. The figs are whirred in a food processor with cider vinegar and extra-virgin olive oil to make a sweet, tangy slaw dressing that is a nice alternative to the typical mayonnaise-based version. Together, these ingredients add just the right flavor punch to complement just about any BBQ-sauce-slathered protein or burger or to enliven a summer salad spread.
Herbed Farro Salad with Walnuts, Feta & Spinach
Photo: Deb Lindsey for The Washington Post
Farro is an ancient whole wheat grain that holds up beautifully in salads. It is at the heart of this one, where its nutty toothsomeness is matched with a bold combo of crunchy walnuts, salty feta cheese, aromatic fresh herbs and hearty greens. The salad can be made ahead and kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, so it is perfect to take to a potluck, to pack and take to work as a main course for lunch, and to have on hand as a side with some simply grilled chicken or fish for dinner.
Mediterranean Chopped Salad With Tuna
Photo: Tom McCorkle for The Washington Post
This bountiful salad of chopped crisp vegetables and herbs with tuna in an olive oil-and-vinegar dressing is destined to become a staple for lunch or a light dinner. The key ingredient is a high-quality jar, or cans, of tuna packed in olive oil, which not only provides the premium flaky protein for this dish but also the oil for the dressing.
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