Simple summer salads

Caprese Salad
Caprese Salad

Crisp and cool, salads are ideal summer fare. We've developed 7 summer salad recipes, with colors that span the rainbow, pack in loads of antioxidants, fiber-rich vegetables and flavorful ripe fruit. Lean protein, such as chicken and shrimp, transforms easy sides into satisfying main courses. And the salads all take just minutes to prepare. Couscous & Fruit Salad is ready in just 15 minutes and is delicious as a light summer side or made more substantial with leftover cooked chicken for lunch to go.

Here's the recipe:






Couscous & Fruit Salad
Couscous & Fruit Salad

Couscous & Fruit Salad

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons orange juice
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
2 teaspoons finely chopped shallots
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
2 cups cooked whole-wheat couscous
1 cup chopped nectarine
1 cup mixed fresh berries, such as blueberries and raspberries
2 tablespoons toasted sliced almonds (see Tip)

Whisk oil, orange juice, vinegar, shallots, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Add cooked couscous, nectarines, berries and almonds; gently toss to combine.

TIP: To toast sliced almonds, heat a small dry skillet over medium-low heat. Add nuts and cook, stirring, until lightly browned and fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes.
NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per serving: 259 calories; 9 g fat (1 g sat, 6 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 40 g carbohydrate; 7 g protein; 7 g fiber; 146 mg sodium; 116 mg potassium. Nutrition bonus: Fiber (28% daily value), Vitamin C (20% dv). 2 Carbohydrate Servings. Exchanges: 2 starch, 1/2 fruit, 2 fat.


Need more ideas? Try these easy salad recipes as well:

Chicken & Fruit Salad: Chicken, melon, walnuts and feta top mixed salad greens for a refreshing summer salad.

Caprese Salad: Summer-ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella need only a sprinkling of fresh herbs, salt and pepper to shine in this simple summer salad.

Spicy Thai Shrimp Salad: Shrimp, bell pepper, cucumber and herbs are tossed with a spicy Thai dressing in this colorful salad. Served in Bibb lettuce cups, it's perfect for lunch, a light supper or as an appetizer.

Grilled Pepper Salad: Toss a colorful mix of grilled bell peppers with briny olives, sweet sun-dried tomatoes and balsamic vinaigrette for a lovely side dish. Or spread crostini with goat cheese and top it with this salad for an easy summer appetizer.


By Carolyn Malcoun

When associate editor Carolyn Malcoun came to Vermont to attend New England Culinary Institute, she knew she didn't want to work in a restaurant but knew that she wanted to do something in the food industry. Luckily she discovered EatingWell, where she's able to combine her love of food and writing.


Related Links from EatingWell: