When the weather (finally) turns warm, it can go from pleasant and sunny to too hot to handle in the blink of an eye. When you start to get sweaty inside, don’t sweat over what to make for dinner! Summer dinners call for salads; if done right, salads are a great way to get all the flavor, texture, and complexity you want in a meal without stepping near the oven. Plus, summer is when the Produce Department is exploding with fresh local fruits and veggies. Below are some of our favorite salad recipes with ingredients you can find at the Littleton Co-op. They’ll make great mains, starters, or sides, and the best part is you’ll likely find lots of the ingredients on sale!
Kale Antipasto Salad
The key to making this salad is a success is ensuring that you massage your kale. Yes, you read that right. It’s explained in this recipe, but massaging your kale is going to take away the toughness that might be holding you back from this leafy green to begin with. And as a bonus: increase the ratio of the other ingredients to kale so the next day you can put the mixture in a sub roll or wrap for a new twist on an Italian.
Coconut Tangerine Salad
When we first saw this recipe, we were hesitant. But when you think about it a little longer, it makes perfect sense! It’s a truly tropical experience in a SALAD. No passport required for this experience. Try substituting butter/bib lettuce if you really want to highlight the crunch of the coconut and almonds.
Mojito Watermelon Salad
Who ever said that salads have to have lettuce in them? In this recipe, watermelons take the center stage (but fresh local mint has a strong supporting role). We highly recommend the suggested addition of feta cheese.
Thai Peanut Salad
Cabbage is great because it is a dense, low-cost vegetable option, but in this recipe it is also a great vehicle for a heavier dressing. Add your choice of protein and this is definitely a full meal! Another topping option is uncooked ramen noodle or chow mein noodle pieces.
Original recipe images courtesy of National Cooperative Grocers at grocery.coop.
