10 Lettuce-Free Salads You'll Make All Summer Long

Who says a good salad must have greens? These crowd-pleasing salads are packed with nutritious and tasty ingredients -- from fresh corn to quinoa to avocado -- and they're 100% lettuce-free. Get ready to discover your new summer staples!
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Who says a good salad must have greens? These crowd-pleasing salads are packed with nutritious and tasty ingredients -- from fresh corn to quinoa to avocado -- and they're 100% lettuce-free. Get ready to discover your new summer staples!

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AKA "veggie crack," this black bean and corn salad is one of my most popular recipes -- and it doubles as a dip. The vinaigrette is similar to the smoky-sweet salad dressing served at Chipotle. GET THE RECIPE

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This is the kind of wholly satisfying salad that makes you wonder if you might possibly be a very happy vegetarian. Don't forget the warm crusty bread for mopping up all the lemon-scented olive oil and feta. GET THE RECIPE

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This salad is a healthy eater's dream: flavorful, chock-full of protein and veggies, and low in fat. I usually make it as a light lunch, but you can also serve it alongside other Asian dishes for dinner -- or make it a meal unto itself by adding cooked shrimp, crab or lobster. GET THE RECIPE

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What's better than sliced fresh mozzarella, vine-ripened tomatoes and fresh basil in the summertime? A tart and syrupy balsamic glaze gives this version a little more oomph than the classic recipe. GET THE RECIPE

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Next time you're asked to bring a veggie or salad to a summer party, try these sweet and smoky bell peppers topped with feta, toasted pine nuts and basil. It looks gorgeous on a platter and is delicious with toasted pita bread. GET THE RECIPE

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This combination of tender roasted chicken, juicy grapes and crunchy cashews in a curry dressing is always a crowd-pleaser. GET THE RECIPE

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This salad is such a nice change of pace from the standard mix of pre-cut fruit from the supermarket. I usually serve it for brunch -- it dresses up the table and pairs well with savory quiche and casserole dishes -- but it's also wonderful for dessert served with shortcake and whipped cream. GET THE RECIPE

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This make-ahead fresh corn salad ahead of is a delicious alternative to boiled corn on the cob -- and it's a breeze to make. GET THE RECIPE

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Inspired by the classic French bistro dish, this light and crunchy carrot salad is the perfect accompaniment to burgers, grilled chicken or sandwiches. GET THE RECIPE

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This light and fresh cucumber salad is one of my summertime go-to's. The dressing is tangy, salty and sweet; and the juice from the cucumber seeps into the dressing, giving it a fresh cucumber flavor. GET THE RECIPE

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