She Strengthens

Summer Salad Perfection

When the weather warms up, our taste buds crave something light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. This easy summer salad recipe checks all the boxes, featuring a trio of warm-weather veggies that will impress your friends and family.

The Ultimate Summer Salad Recipe

This salad is a masterclass in simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of the vegetables to shine. Feel free to get creative and add your own twist with other herbs, veggies, or proteins – like our easy grilled salmon recipe.

Plan Ahead for Success

To make this salad ahead of time, prepare the ingredients up to 8 hours in advance. Just be sure to add the chives at the last minute to preserve their color and texture.

Summer Salad Ingredients

• 1 pound green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-1/2-inch lengths
• 1 pound yellow wax beans, trimmed and cut into 1-1/2-inch lengths
• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-1/2-inch lengths
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh chives
• 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ice Water Bath: Fill a large bowl halfway with ice and water; set aside.
2. Cook the Veggies: Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil over high heat. Add green beans and cook until just tender, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon to the ice water bath and let cool, about 4-5 minutes. Repeat with wax beans and asparagus.
3. Dry the Veggies: Remove beans from the ice water bath and spread out on a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to dry.
4. Make the Vinaigrette: Combine chives, vinegar, salt, sugar, and pepper in a large, nonreactive bowl. While whisking, add oil in a steady stream until completely incorporated.
5. Assemble the Salad: Add beans and asparagus to vinaigrette and toss gently to combine. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Serve and Enjoy!

This summer salad recipe yields 6-8 servings and can be prepared in just 20 minutes. It’s the perfect side dish for your next outdoor gathering or picnic. So go ahead, get creative, and make it your own!