Super Summer Salads

When it’s hot like an oven outside who wants to turn on the real deal inside? 

Refreshing salads are a great way to give your oven a break, keep the kitchen cool and cut down on your electric bill during the sweltering summer months.

Here are a few easy and affordable recipe ideas perfect for a summer picnic, a simple dinner on the deck or a potluck with family and friends. 

Italian Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

1 (16 ounce) package fusili pasta, cooked

1 cup diced tomatoes

1 can quartered artichoke hearts, drained

1/2 pound provolone cheese, cubed

1/2 pound salami, cubed

1/4 pound sliced pepperoni, cut in half

1 large green bell pepper, cut into 1 inch pieces

1 (10 ounce) can black olives, drained

1 cup roasted red pepper, chopped

1 (8 ounce) bottle Italian salad dressing

1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Directions:

In a large bowl, combine first 9 ingredients. Pour in salad dressing, and toss to coat. Top with Parmesan cheese. 

Seven Layer Taco Salad

Ingredients: 

2 pounds lean ground beef

1 pkg. taco seasoning

6 cups chopped hearts of romaine lettuce

1 cup whole kernel corn

1 (16 oz.) can drained, kidney beans

1 to 2 cups salsa

3 sliced green onions

2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

2 cups sour cream

1 cup mayonnaise

1 teaspoon chili powder

2 teaspoons cayenne pepper sauce

2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

1 medium tomato chopped

1 can sliced black olives

1 bag Tortilla chips

Directions:

Prepare meat and taco seasoning according to package instructions. Set aside. 

In a large clear glass bowl, layer salad greens, corn, kidney beans, salsa, green onions, Monterey Jack cheese and cooled taco meat mixture.

Combine sour cream, mayonnaise, chili powder and hot sauce. Carefully spread over salad.

Sprinkle with Cheddar cheese.

Cover and refrigerate until you are ready to serve.

Garnish with tomatoes and olives. Serve with tortilla chips. 

See Also:

Perfect Picnic Sides
Perfect Picnic Foods—The Pros of Portability
Picnic on a Stick