40 Summer Salads for a Cottage Party

Updated by Melissa Girimonte on August 2, 2018

Simple, fresh and pretty enough for a party, these delicious salads are perfect for summer meals at the cottage. From creamy potato salad to crunchy cabbage slaw, watch your guests devour these colourful dishes at your next cabin or cottage shindig.

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Tomato Feta Pasta Salad

This delicious Greek-inspired <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/canada-day/photos/best-pasta-salad-recipes/" target="_blank">pasta salad</a> is packed with bold flavours, fresh vegetables and big chunks of feta cheese. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tomato-feta-pasta-salad/15367/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Tomato Feta Pasta Salad</a>
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Ratatouille Panzanella Salad with Herb-Parmesan Dressing

Transform your leftover ciabatta by grilling it and then tossing the chunks into a bowl with roasted eggplant, bell pepper, squash and zucchini. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ratatouille-panzanella-salad-with-herb-parmesan-dressing/16193/" target="_blank">Bobby Flay's Ratatouille Panzanella Salad with Herb-Parmesan Dressing</a>
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Grilled Romaine with Balsamic Dressing

This no-fuss dish can be made in just 15 minutes and is a delicious alternative to your typical Caesar salad. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/grilled-romaine-with-balsamic-dressing/16896/" target="_blank">Valerie Bertinelli’s Grilled Romaine with Balsamic Dressing</a>
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Southwestern Potato Salad

Have you ever been to a barbecue that didn't have potato salad? Neither have we, because it doesn't happen. We're fans of this refreshing recipe from Bobby Flay that features tomatoes, red onion and new potatoes. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mesa-grills-southwestern-potato-salad/15755/" target="_blank">Southwestern Potato Salad</a>
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Vegetable Salad with Grapes

A tasty side or light lunch, this chickpea-filled salad incorporates broccoli, grapes, cucumber and a zesty dressing for a refreshing bite. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegetable-salad-with-grapes/8758/" target="_blank">Ricardo's Vegetable Salad with Grapes</a>
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Spicy Cabbage Salad

Spice up your average coleslaw with this Tex-Mex version. Savoury and spicy chipotle peppers in adobo add flavour and heat to the slaw, while a touch of honey and a squeeze of lemon juice rounds out the flavour to complete this quick and easy side dish. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spicy-cabbage-salad/16382/" target="_blank">Daphne Brogdon’s Spicy Cabbage Slaw</a>
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Pasta Salad with Lemon-Pesto Dressing

Cold pasta salad is mixed with grape tomatoes, scallions, ricotta and a zesty lemon-pesto dressing. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pasta-salad-with-lemon-pesto-dressing/16059/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Pasta Salad with Lemon-Pesto Dressing</a>
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Bacon Salad with Crispy Onions

This salad is perfect for the bacon lover! Thick cuts of crispy bacon are served over top a bed of iceberg lettuce, cherry tomatoes, carrots, radishes and crispy onions with a honey dijon dressing. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/bacon-salad-with-crispy-onions/14707/" target="_blank">Bacon Salad with Crispy Onions</a>
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Guacamole Bean Salad

All the delicious components of guacamole are packed into this nutritious and delicious salad that brings hearty canned black beans to the mix. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/guacamole-salad/15425/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Guacamole Bean Salad</a>
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Chilled Grilled Seafood Salad

Grilled calamari, shrimp and scallops mingle with a host of fruits and veggies in this refreshing salad. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chilled-grilled-seafood-salad/10108/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Chilled Grilled Seafood Salad</a>
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Grilled Nectarine Salad

If we had to guess, we'd imagine summer tasting a bit like this sweet and fresh salad. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/grilled-nectarine-salad/15632/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Grilled Nectarine Salad</a>
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Creamy Coleslaw with Grapes and Walnuts

This classic crunchy coleslaw combo is finished off with juicy grapes and walnuts for a side that’s guaranteed to please a crowd. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/creamy-coleslaw-with-grapes-and-walnuts/18022/" target="_blank">Creamy Coleslaw with Grapes and Walnuts</a>
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Warm Potato Salad

This comforting dish filled with waxy potatoes, peas, bacon, onion and lots of garlic is the perfect way to kick-off the warmer weather. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/warm-potato-salad/8371/" target="_blank">Warm Potato Salad</a>
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Pinto Bean Salsa Salad

Creamy avocado, hearty pinto beans, fresh cilantro, corn and tomato make for a quick and healthy winning salad. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pinto-bean-salsa-salad/18035/" target="_blank">Pinto Bean Salsa Salad</a>
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Giada’s Spinach Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Give life to your spinach salad with a fresh orange vinaigrette and crispy, crumbled prosciutto on top. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/giadas-spinach-salad-with-orange-vinaigrette/16798/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Spinach Salad with Orange Vinaigrette</a>
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Mediterranean Orzo Salad

Loaded with red and yellow tomatoes, olives and sharp feta cheese, this salad will bring you back to barbecues and long summer nights. Round out this salad with a simple baked salmon and you’ve got a flavourful and colourful dinner. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mediterranean-orzo-salad/17803/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman’s Mediterranean Orzo Salad</a>
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Chicken Taco Salad

For a quick and easy meal the whole family will love, turn to this leftover chicken taco salad. Add fresh corn, tomatoes, grated cheese, avocados, green onions, cilantro, crushed tortilla chips and leftover shredded chicken to a bed of crisp lettuce, and you're set. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-taco-salad/15509/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman’s Chicken Taco Salad</a>
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Toasted Israeli Couscous Salad with Grilled Summer Vegetables

The subtle nutty flavour of toasted couscous is highlighted in this eye-catching salad packed with summer veggies like zucchini, asparagus and cherry tomatoes. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/toasted-israeli-couscous-salad-with-grilled-summer-vegetables/15979/" target="_blank">Bobby Flay's Toasted Israeli Couscous Salad with Grilled Summer Vegetables</a>
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Arugula, Watermelon and Feta Salad

Sweet watermelon pairs perfectly with salty feta and peppery arugula in this bright and fresh salad. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/arugula-watermelon-and-feta-salad/16075/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Arugula, Watermelon and Feta Salad</a>
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Spicy Pasta Salad with Smoked Gouda, Tomatoes and Basil

Hearty enough to eat as a meal, this spicy pasta salad is filled with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil and delicious smoked gouda. Get the recipe <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spicy-pasta-salad-with-smoked-gouda-tomatoes-and-basil/15579/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Spicy Pasta Salad with Smoked Gouda, Tomatoes and Basil</a>
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Grilled Zucchini Salad with Lemon Herb Vinaigrette

A mouthwatering salad where sweet grilled zucchini and decadent pine nuts are accented with shavings of romano cheese and tossed in a light lemon herb vinaigrette. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/grilled-zucchini-salad-with-lemon-herb-vinaigrette-and-shaved-romano-and-toasted-pine-nuts/15895/" target="_blank">Bobby Flay's Grilled Zucchini Salad with Lemon Herb Vinaigrette</a>
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Grilled Fingerling Potato Salad with Feta, Green Beans and Olives

Grilled potatoes pair beautifully with crispy green beans. The plump black olives and salty feta cheese elevate the dish further. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/grilled-fingerling-potato-salad-with-feta-green-beans-and-olives/15765/" target="_blank">Bobby Flay's Grilled Fingerling Potato Salad with Feta, Green Beans and Olives</a>
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Asian Noodle Salad

This salad from Ree Drummond is complete with thin spaghetti, cucumbers, two kinds of cabbage, kale and chopped peanuts. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/asian-noodle-salad/16647/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman’s Asian Noodle Salad</a>
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Steak Salad

Garlic-marinated grilled <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/photos/best-steak-recipes/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">steak</a> is topped over a bed of greens tossed in a light and spicy ginger and soy dressing. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/ginger-steak-salad/15633/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Ginger Steak Salad</a>
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Farro Salad with Tomatoes and Herbs

Giada’s authentic Italian salad is a fantastic fresh and filling accompaniment to hot-off-the-grill <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/bbq/photos/most-popular-burger-recipes/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">juicy burgers</a> or steaks. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/farro-salad-with-tomatoes-and-herbs/15984/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Farro Salad with Tomatoes and Herbs</a>
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Chopped Caprese Salad

Get all the flavours of Caprese salad without the fancy layering or assembly. Squeaky mozzarella, juicy grape tomatoes, Kalamata olives and a handful of fragrant basil leaves are tossed together for a fresh and satisfying side. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chopped-caprese-salad/17756/" target="_blank">Nancy Fuller's Chopped Caprese Salad</a>
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Warm Sausage and Pepper Salad

Hot Italian sausages, sautéed red bell pepper and onions, kalamata olives and arugula are the stars in this easy salad by Anna Olson. Get the recipe <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/warm-sausage-and-pepper-salad/10872/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Warm Sausage and Pepper Salad</a>
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Buffalo Chicken Salad

A healthier take on buffalo wings, this buffalo chicken salad is tossed in a tangy blue cheese dressing for the ultimate flavour combination. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/the-pioneer-womans-buffalo-chicken-salad/16016/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Buffalo Chicken Salad</a>
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Strawberry Arugula Salad

This simple summer salad features sweet strawberries, crumbly goat cheese, crunchy walnuts and arugula in a balsamic vinaigrette. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/strawberry-arugula-salad-with-walnuts-and-goat-cheese/14348/" target="_blank">Strawberry Arugula Salad</a>
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Seven Layer Pasta Salad

Made with fresh veggies, farfalle, ham and cheese, this kid-friendly <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/canada-day/photos/best-pasta-salad-recipes/" target="_blank">pasta salad</a> is practically screaming to be served at a summer picnic. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/7-layer-pasta-salad/17997/" target="_blank">Seven Layer Pasta Salad</a>
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Sweet and Crunchy Broccoli Salad

Crunchy <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/entertaining/photos/fast-fresh-broccoli-salads/" target="_blank">broccoli salads</a> are always a good choice for a summer side dish. Giada makes hers with a creamy dressing of mascarpone, mayonnaise and cider vinegar, then adds pancetta, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts and aged Gorgonzola. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sweet-and-crunchy-broccoli-salad/21263/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Sweet and Crunchy Broccoli Salad</a>
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Strawberry Salad

Summer strawberries are a wonderful addition to greens such as kale or baby spinach. This fast, fresh salad pairs sweet slices of ruby red berries with arugula, toasted almond slices, and shaved Gorgonzola dolce. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/strawberry-salad/21450/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Strawberry Salad</a>
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Purple Potato Salad

If you're looking for a pretty side dish for your next dinner party, look no further than this colourful <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/easy-potato-salad-recipes/" target="_blank">potato salad</a>. Made with purple-skinned fingerling potatoes in a creamy dressing, this will add a burst of spring to your table any time of the year./p> Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/purple-potato-salad/21456/" target="_blank">Duff Goldman's Purple Potato Salad</a>
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Ina Garten's Fresh Corn Salad

A quick blanch keeps the corn a sunny bright yellow, while red onion, fresh cilantro and a good glug of cider vinegar and olive oil balance out the sweetness. Try the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/fresh-corn-salad-recipe.html" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Fresh Corn Salad</a>
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Fregola Salad with Fresh Citrus and Red Onion

Tiny fregola or orzo are the best base for this pasta salad straight from Giada's kitchen to yours. Add orange and grapefruit segments along with red onion for the perfect summer picnic salad. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/fregola-salad-with-fresh-citrus-and-red-onion/20378/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Fregola Salad with Fresh Citrus and Red Onion</a>
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Italian Chicken Pasta Salad

A simple chicken and pasta recipe that packs up well for lunch on a picnic blanket. And it only takes 25 minutes to whip together! Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/italian-chicken-pasta-salad/21366/" target="_blank">Italian Chicken Pasta Salad</a>
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Carrot, Orange and Radish Salad

Tyler makes this simple Moroccan-inspired salad with sliced carrot and radish, fresh mint, cilantro, and orange segments. He dresses it with a mixture that includes delicate orange flower water and fragrant cinnamon. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/carrot-orange-and-radish-salad/21485/" target="_blank">Tyler Florence's Carrot, Orange and Radish Salad</a>
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Kale and Apple Salad

Cottage eats can be healthy eats with this antioxidant-rich salad featuring kale, apple, dates, almonds and pecorino cheese. Nutritious and delicious, it pairs well with grilled meats. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/kale-and-apple-salad/21346/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Kale and Apple Salad</a>
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Orzo Salad

Giada's orzo salad is a great dish if you want to get a head start on cottage meal prep. Best eaten at room temperature, make it at home before hitting so the flavours have time to meld on the drive to the cabin. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/orzo-salad/21579/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Orzo Salad</a>
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Red Rice Salad

If your cottage is short on kitchen space or has a small fridge, look for salads that are best served at room temperature. Giada combines red rice with orange, fennel, cucumber and radicchio in a light Champagne vinaigrette that can be served with everything from sandwiches to barbecued meats. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/red-rice-salad/21261/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Red Rice Salad</a>
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