Summer is here, and with it comes a desire to ditch heavy, rich foods and opt for something light, refreshing, and nutritious. Salads are the perfect solution! But what about those who need to follow a gluten-free diet? Worry not, dear readers, as we have got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious and refreshing gluten-free salad recipes that are perfect for the summer season.
From classic combinations like quinoa and avocado to more adventurous pairings like roasted beet and goat cheese, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration, these gluten-free salads are sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you cool during those hot summer days.
Quinoa and Avocado Gluten Free Salad
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with creamy avocado, crunchy veggies, and a hint of citrus, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced avocado, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (cooking quinoa)
Mediterranean Chickpea Gluten Free Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the best of Mediterranean cuisine with the convenience of gluten-free ingredients. This salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, and can be easily doubled or tripled to feed a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, red bell pepper, olives, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Kale and Cranberry Gluten Free Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the earthy taste of kale with the sweetness of cranberries, perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, massage the kale leaves with your hands for about 2 minutes to soften and tenderize them.
2. Add the cranberries, nuts, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil to the bowl.
3. Toss gently to combine, making sure all ingredients are well coated.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of preparation.
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Gluten Free Salad
A sweet and tangy salad that combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the creaminess of goat cheese, all on a bed of crisp greens. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (make sure it’s gluten-free)
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted beets, and crumbled goat cheese.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting time) + assembly time
Asian Cucumber Gluten Free Salad
A refreshing and light salad that combines the crunch of cucumbers with the savory flavors of Asian-inspired ingredients, all while being gluten-free. This perfect summer side dish is ready in just 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 sliced cucumbers
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (make sure it’s gluten-free)
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, red bell pepper, and scallions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Greek Gluten Free Salad with Lemon Dressing
This refreshing salad is a perfect combination of Greek flavors, minus the gluten. The tangy lemon dressing adds a nice zesty touch to this Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta cheese, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Southwest Black Bean Gluten Free Salad
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of the Southwest with the convenience of a gluten-free option. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is also ideal for meal prep and special diets.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 avocado, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, red bell pepper, yellow onion, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top with diced avocado and sprinkle with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Spinach and Strawberry Gluten Free Salad
This refreshing salad combines the earthy flavor of spinach with the sweetness of strawberries, all on a bed of crispy pecans. A perfect blend of textures and flavors that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (gluten-free)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and sliced strawberries.
2. Sprinkle chopped pecans and crumbled feta cheese over the top.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lentil and Feta Gluten Free Salad
This hearty salad combines the comforting flavors of lentils and feta cheese with a hint of Mediterranean flair, all while being gluten-free. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, feta cheese, parsley, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, tossing gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (assuming cooked lentils)
Caprese Gluten Free Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This classic Italian salad gets a gluten-free twist with the addition of a rich and tangy balsamic glaze. A simple yet elegant side dish or light lunch, this recipe is perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (gluten-free)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top with mozzarella cheese strips.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad, followed by the balsamic glaze.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh and at room temperature.
Taco Gluten Free Salad with Lime Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful and refreshing Taco Gluten-Free Salad! This recipe combines the best of both worlds, blending the classic flavors of a taco with the crunch of a fresh green salad.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (gluten-free)
– 1 cup cooked ground beef or ground turkey
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (gluten-free)
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, ground beef or turkey, bell peppers, tomatoes, cilantro, and queso fresco.
2. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Broccoli and Bacon Gluten Free Salad
A delicious and healthy salad that combines the flavors of crispy bacon, tangy broccoli, and creamy dressing – perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 6 slices of gluten-free bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise (make sure it’s gluten-free)
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets and crumbled bacon.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Apple Walnut Gluten Free Salad
This salad combines the sweetness of apples with the earthy flavor of walnuts and a hint of tanginess from the cider vinegar, all on a bed of crisp greens. Perfect for a light and refreshing fall meal or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 large apple, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp cider vinegar
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens.
2. Arrange the diced apple on top of the greens.
3. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the apple.
4. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the salad.
5. Drizzle the cider vinegar and olive oil over the salad.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes ( assembly only)
Thai Mango Gluten Free Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of mango with the tanginess of lime and the crunch of toasted coconut, all wrapped up in a gluten-free package. Perfect for hot summer days or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mango, toasted coconut flakes, cilantro, mixed greens, and mint leaves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Roasted Sweet Potato Gluten Free Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the tanginess of citrus and creaminess of avocado, all on a bed of crisp mixed greens. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup fresh orange segments
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 4 cups mixed greens (gluten-free)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let cool, then peel and dice into 1-inch cubes.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted sweet potato, orange segments, red onion, avocado, and mixed greens.
5. Drizzle with lemon juice and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting the sweet potatoes) + assembly time
Pear and Gorgonzola Gluten Free Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of pears with the creaminess of gorgonzola, all on a bed of crisp mixed greens. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 ripe pear, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens.
2. Arrange the diced pear on top of the greens.
3. Sprinkle the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese over the pear.
4. Add the chopped nuts and toss gently.
5. Drizzle the olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in minutes.
Moroccan Carrot Gluten Free Salad
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the warm spices of Morocco, all while being gluten-free. A perfect side dish or light lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated carrots, parsley, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture and toss to coat.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if using.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pesto Pasta Gluten Free Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Italy with a gluten-free twist. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish, this pesto pasta salad is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz gluten-free pasta (such as brown rice or quinoa)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pesto sauce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and parsley.
3. Toss gently to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado and Corn Gluten Free Salad
This gluten-free salad is a perfect blend of creamy avocado, sweet corn, and tangy lime juice, making it a delicious addition to any meal. With its vibrant colors and nutritious ingredients, this salad is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, corn kernels, and red bell pepper.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the top and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stir in the chopped cilantro.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Watermelon Feta Gluten Free Salad
Celebrate summer with a light and revitalizing salad that combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of feta cheese. This refreshing side dish is perfect for hot days, outdoor gatherings, or as a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1/2 cup crumbled gluten-free feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint leaves.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice; toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes ( Assembly only)
Summary
Beat the summer heat with these refreshing gluten-free salad recipes! From classic combinations like Caprese and Spinach and Strawberry, to international inspirations such as Thai Mango and Moroccan Carrot, there’s something for everyone. Hearty options like Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese and Lentil and Feta pair perfectly with lighter choices like Quinoa and Avocado and Asian Cucumber. With a range of flavors and textures, these 20 gluten-free salads are sure to satisfy your cravings all season long.
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