As adults, the arrival of summer doesn't mean our work stops. While school may be out, our 9-5 routines continue. But with summer comes the chance to enjoy vibrant meals that uplift our spirits.
Although we'd all prefer a long vacation, finding happiness in small ways is key. In this case, it's about colorful, nutrient-packed meals that can boost your mood.
Here are some salad, sandwich, bowl, and smoothie options that will keep you energized throughout the summer and beyond. When those 11 a.m. cravings hit, you'll want to be ready!
Summer Smoothies for Lunch
Peach Crumble Shake
Why We Love It: This shake is a perfect substitute for peach pie at lunch. It combines meal and dessert, featuring delightful summer ingredients that taste like sunshine.
Hero Ingredient: Cinnamon adds a sweet and spicy balance to the creamy mix.
Almond Butter Green Smoothie
Why We Love It: Crafted by a talented chef, this smoothie is more than just a typical green drink. It's easy to prepare and ensures stable energy throughout the day, incorporating a whole cup of spinach without needing a salad.
Hero Ingredient: Frozen cauliflower enhances the smoothie's texture without altering the flavor, adding fiber for satisfaction.
Strawberry Banana Smoothie
Why We Love It: This classic combo of strawberry and banana offers a tropical twist. The addition of Greek yogurt ensures it's filling and creamy.
Hero Ingredient: Freezing the banana guarantees a thick, milkshake-like smoothie.
Swirled Yogurt & Smoothie Bowl
Why We Love It: Smoothie bowls are a delightful way to enjoy a snack or meal. By using less liquid and frozen ingredients, you create a thick and spoonable texture.
Hero Ingredient: Crunchy toppings add an enjoyable texture to each bite.
Refreshing Summer Salads
Feta Salad with White Beans and Lemon Relish
Why We Love It: This colorful salad offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. If you think salads can't satisfy, try this one with creamy white beans, feta, mint, and crunchy cucumbers.
Hero Ingredient: The lemon relish, made with the whole lemon, adds a bright citrus flavor.
Malibu Farm Rainbow Vegan Chop Salad
Why We Love It: A true visual feast, this salad features thin slices of avocado and a medley of roasted, marinated, and fresh veggies for a satisfying experience.
Hero Ingredient: Marinated roasted beets add depth and flavor.
Asian Slaw
Why We Love It: This slaw is fresh and vibrant, boasting a mix of herbs for flavor and a crunchy blend of cabbages and nuts. Make extra—you'll want it for every meal!
Hero Ingredient: Thinly sliced peach provides a lovely hint of sweetness.
Summer Pasta Salad
Why We Love It: A quintessential summer dish, this pasta salad is both healthy and delectable. Enjoy it solo or as a side at your next barbecue.
Hero Ingredient: Grilled eggplant elevates the flavors.
Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad
Why We Love It: Orzo is often overlooked, but this salad highlights its charm. Packed with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta, it captures the essence of summer.
Hero Ingredient: Fresh dill adds a vibrant touch.
Buffalo Cauliflower Chopped Salad
Why We Love It: This salad is irresistible with its buffalo sauce coating cauliflower. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Hero Ingredient: The buffalo sauce provides a perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
Thai Chicken Salad with Spicy Peanut Dressing
Why We Love It: This salad captures the essence of summer with its tropical flavors. It's a delicious way to incorporate mango into your meals.
Hero Ingredient: A homemade spicy peanut sauce can elevate any dish.
Tomato, Avocado, & Cucumber Salad With Feta
Why We Love It: This salad is a work of art, visually appealing and delicious. It's a delightful mix of color and flavor.
Hero Ingredient: Feta adds a creamy, salty touch that enhances the fresh ingredients.
Broccoli Salad
Why We Love It: This creamy, crunchy salad is a must-have for summer gatherings and work lunches alike.
Hero Ingredient: Raisins add a chewy sweetness that complements the broccoli.
Mango and Feta Salad
Why We Love It: A stunning and nutrient-rich meal, this salad is perfect for self-care moments. It's a beautiful reminder to take time for yourself.
Hero Ingredient: Large chunks of feta provide a tangy richness.
Summer Lunch Bowls
Loaded Sweet Potato Nacho Salad Bowls
Why We Love It: This recipe surprised me by including nachos in a healthy context. It's indulgent yet packed with greens, making it a guilt-free lunch.
Hero Ingredient: Sweet potato rounds serve as a nutritious alternative to chips.
Build-Your-Own Buddha Bowl
Why We Love It: This bowl combines whole grains, veggies, and a delicious sauce for a satisfying meal. It's customizable to your taste.
Hero Ingredient: Essential garnishes like carrot ginger dressing add a sweet heat that enhances the dish.
Spring Salmon & Veggie Grain Bowl
Why We Love It: For a nourishing option, this bowl packs protein, healthy fats, grains, and veggies. It's a great way to switch up your salmon routine.
Hero Ingredient: Turmeric provides a lovely color and warming flavor to the vinaigrette.
Roasted Veggie Grain Bowl
Why We Love It: When meetings fill your week, simplicity is vital. This roasted veggie bowl excels in its straightforwardness.
Hero Ingredient: Sauerkraut adds a unique twist to elevate this easy dish.
Sweet Potato Chickpea Buddha Bowl
Why We Love It: If you're a sweet potato lover, this bowl is a must-try. Roasted sweet potatoes take center stage, creating a delicious meal.
Hero Ingredient: Garlic powder coats the chickpeas for extra flavor.
Summer Sandwiches
Veggie Hummus Sandwich
Why We Love It: I hadn't enjoyed a sandwich regularly since high school, but this veggie-packed option is a delightful change. Creamy hummus and fresh vegetables are a satisfying combo.
Hero Ingredient: Avocado adds creaminess and substance to the sandwich.
Chickpea Salad Sandwiches
Why We Love It: Traditional salads have always been favorites, but this plant-based version is a game changer. Enjoy the hearty flavors of legumes.
Hero Ingredient: Chopped celery brings a satisfying crunch.
Ultimate Veggie Crunch Sandwich
Why We Love It: This sandwich lives up to its name with an abundance of fresh veggies. The marbled rye bread adds a nutty flavor to this loaded delight.
Hero Ingredient: Vegan Thousand-Island dressing gives it a nostalgic touch.
Roasted Sweet Potato Sandwich
Why We Love It: This recipe showcases the versatility of sweet potatoes. Combined with arugula and herby goat cheese, it makes for a power-packed lunch.
Hero Ingredient: Sweet potatoes are truly remarkable for their flavor and nutrition.
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