Veggie Chopsticks

  • Recipes
  • Resources
  • About
  • Subscribe
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • Resources
  • About
  • Subscribe
    • Pinterest
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • Resources
    • About
    • Subscribe
    • Pinterest
  • ×
    Home » Recipe Collections

    Fresh and Light Vegetarian Recipes for Summer

    Published: May 17, 2025 by Yuan · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    6 shares
    • Flipboard
    • Facebook

    Celebrate summer with meals that are crisp, vibrant, and easy to make. These recipes highlight seasonal produce and require minimal cooking time. They’re great for warm days when you want something refreshing but still satisfying. Each dish is a burst of color and flavor that keeps meals exciting.

    Vegan Vietnamese Papaya Salad Recipe: Crisp & Tangy

    A colorful plate of fresh vietnamese salad featuring vibrant carrots, juicy tomatoes, and green papaya.
    Vegan Vietnamese Papaya Salad Recipe: Crisp & Tangy. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

    This refreshing salad features shredded green papaya, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing with a touch of sweetness and spice. It's a vibrant, light dish that can serve as an appetizer or side. The salad is full of bold, fresh flavors and has a satisfying crunch.
    Get the Recipe: Vegan Vietnamese Papaya Salad Recipe: Crisp & Tangy

    Pumpkin Stir Fry Recipe (炒南瓜): Simple And Tasty

    Delicious stir-fried pumpkin with a light and savory flavor.
    Pumpkin Stir Fry Recipe (炒南瓜): Simple And Tasty. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

    This stir-fry combines tender pumpkin slices with bell peppers and a savory sauce, creating a comforting and flavorful dish. It's a quick and easy way to enjoy pumpkin outside of traditional recipes. The pumpkin adds a slight sweetness, perfectly balanced by the savory seasonings.
    Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Stir Fry Recipe (炒南瓜): Simple And Tasty

    Asian Cucumber Tomato Salad: Easy And Refreshing

    Light and refreshing Asian salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and tangy dressing.
    Asian Cucumber Tomato Salad: Easy And Refreshing. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

    This light salad combines crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes with a flavorful Asian-inspired dressing. It's a refreshing and easy side dish for hot days or barbecues. The dressing adds a zesty kick, making the salad both savory and tangy.
    Get the Recipe: Asian Cucumber Tomato Salad: Easy And Refreshing

    Chinese Cucumber Salad

    Refreshing cucumber salad tossed with a light and tangy dressing.
    Chinese Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

    This salad features crisp cucumber slices tossed in a tangy, savory dressing made with garlic, vinegar, and sesame oil. It's a refreshing side dish that pairs well with a variety of Asian dishes. The salad is light, crunchy, and has a delightful balance of flavors.
    Get the Recipe: Chinese Cucumber Salad

    Scrumptious Blistered Tomatoes

    Blistered tomatoes with spoon.
    Scrumptious Blistered Tomatoes. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    These blistered tomatoes are cooked until soft and slightly charred, enhancing their natural sweetness. The dish is simple yet packed with flavor, perfect as a side or topping. It's a quick and easy way to elevate the flavor of fresh tomatoes.
    Get the Recipe: Scrumptious Blistered Tomatoes

    Easy Mango Salsa Recipe

    A bowl of mango salsa with wooden spoon.
    Easy Mango Salsa Recipe. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    This salsa combines ripe mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime for a sweet and tangy burst of flavor. It's a perfect topping for tacos, grilled meats, or as a refreshing dip. The sweetness of the mango is balanced by the acidity of lime and the crunch of fresh vegetables.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Mango Salsa Recipe

    Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

    Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash on a white plate with parsley, salt, and pepper.
    Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

    This recipe cooks spaghetti squash quickly and easily in an air fryer, resulting in tender, noodle-like strands. It's a great low-carb substitute for pasta. The method saves time while delivering a perfect texture for various sauces or toppings.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

    Greek Salad Meal Prep Jars

    Low-carb Greek salad meal prep jars.
    Greek Salad Meal Prep Jars. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

    This Greek salad is layered in mason jars for easy meal prep, featuring cucumber, olives, feta, and a tangy dressing. It's a low-carb, flavorful option that’s great for lunches. The jar method helps keep the ingredients fresh and organized for quick access.
    Get the Recipe: Greek Salad Meal Prep Jars

    Crunchy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

    A small white bowl with broccoli, cauliflower, grapes, and pumpkin seeds tossed in a yogurt dressing.
    Crunchy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

    This salad combines crunchy broccoli, cauliflower, and nuts, dressed in a creamy dressing. It’s an excellent side dish that’s both light and satisfying. The textures in the salad provide a nice contrast, with a mix of freshness and creaminess.
    Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

    Mediterranean Bulgur Salad

    A white plate with tomato and cucumber bulgur salad topped with feta cheese next to two grilled chicken skewers.
    Mediterranean Bulgur Salad. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

    This Mediterranean-inspired salad features bulgur wheat mixed with fresh veggies and a tangy lemon mint vinaigrette. It's a refreshing, light, and nutritious side dish. The vibrant flavors make it perfect for warm weather meals or meal prep.
    Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Bulgur Salad

    Vegetable Fritters

    Vegetable fritters in a stack.
    Vegetable Fritters. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

    These vegetable fritters are made with a variety of veggies, bound together in a crispy, savory batter. They're great as a snack or side dish, offering a delicious way to get your veggies in. The crunchy exterior and tender interior make them both satisfying and flavorful.
    Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fritters

    Hasselback Potatoes

    Roasted hasselback potatoes on a baking sheet with parmesan.
    Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

    These Hasselback potatoes are sliced thinly and roasted, creating crispy edges and a tender center. They’re seasoned simply, allowing the potato’s flavor to shine through. The result is a flavorful and visually appealing side dish.
    Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

    Ukrainian Cucumber Salad

    Overhead view of cucumber salad.
    Ukrainian Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

    This traditional Ukrainian salad is made with thinly sliced cucumbers, onions, and dill, dressed in a light vinegar-based dressing. It's refreshing and tangy, perfect for pairing with grilled meats. The simplicity and freshness of the ingredients make it a versatile side dish.
    Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Cucumber Salad

    Pickled Beet Cucumber Salad

    Close up on beet cucumber salad with dill.
    Pickled Beet Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

    This salad combines pickled beets and cucumbers for a tangy, earthy flavor. It's a vibrant dish that’s perfect for those who enjoy bold, pickled flavors. The salad can be served as a side or enjoyed as a snack.
    Get the Recipe: Pickled Beet Cucumber Salad

    Kale Apple Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing

    A bowl of kale salad on a wooden table.
    Kale Apple Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

    This kale salad features crunchy apples, walnuts, and a lemon dressing for a balance of sweet and savory flavors. The kale provides a hearty base while the apples add a refreshing crunch. It's a healthy, nutrient-packed salad that can serve as a main or side dish.
    Get the Recipe: Kale Apple Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing

    Popeyes Coleslaw

    A picture of Popeyes coleslaw copycat recipe in glass bowl.
    Popeyes Coleslaw. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

    This coleslaw recipe features finely shredded cabbage and a creamy, tangy dressing similar to Popeyes' version. It’s a perfect side dish for fried chicken or BBQ. The crunch of the cabbage and the richness of the dressing create a satisfying combination.
    Get the Recipe: Popeyes Coleslaw

    Asian Cucumber Salad

    A bowl featuring pickled cucumbers and chopsticks.
    Asian Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Food Plus Words.

    This TikTok-inspired Asian cucumber salad is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring cucumbers, garlic, and sesame oil. It’s a refreshing and tangy side that’s easy to make. The ingredients come together quickly, making it ideal for a fast snack or meal accompaniment.
    Get the Recipe: Asian Cucumber Salad

    Apple Pear Slaw

    Bowl of fresh apple and pear slaw salad.
    Apple Pear Slaw. Photo credit: Food Plus Words.

    This slaw features a mix of apples, pears, and cabbage, dressed in a sweet caramel cider vinaigrette. It's a unique twist on traditional slaw, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. The fruit adds a refreshing crunch, making it ideal for fall meals.
    Get the Recipe: Apple Pear Slaw

    Grilled Vegetables

    A variety of grilled vegetables on a platter.
    Grilled Vegetables. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

    These grilled vegetables are cooked using a Ninja Woodfire grill, giving them a smoky flavor. The recipe includes a variety of veggies, all charred to perfection. It's a quick and flavorful way to prepare vegetables, ideal for summer cookouts.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables

    Grilled Corn Guacamole

    Corn guacamole with tortilla chips on a plate.
    Grilled Corn Guacamole. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

    This guacamole incorporates grilled corn, adding a smoky sweetness to the classic dip. It's a delicious twist on traditional guacamole, perfect for summer barbecues. The charred corn enhances the flavor, creating a rich and satisfying dip.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn Guacamole

    Avocado Tomato Salad

    Image shows a wooden bowl containing avocado tomato salad shown from overhead and sitting on a picnic table.
    Avocado Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

    This simple salad features creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil, dressed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It's a light and refreshing side that can accompany any meal. The combination of textures and flavors makes it both satisfying and nutritious.
    Get the Recipe: Avocado Tomato Salad

    Vegan Couscous Salad

    Image shows a closeup of an enameled cast iron pan filled with a vegan couscous salad.
    Vegan Couscous Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

    This vegan couscous salad features a mix of vegetables and chickpeas, tossed in a tangy lemon dressing. It’s a filling and nutritious dish, perfect for a light lunch or as a side. The couscous provides a soft texture, complemented by the crisp veggies.
    Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous Salad

    Cabbage Apple Salad

    Red cabbage slaw in a wooden bowl with a spoon.
    Cabbage Apple Salad. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

    This salad combines crisp cabbage and sweet apples, tossed in a light vinaigrette. The combination of flavors and textures is refreshing and slightly tangy. It’s an easy-to-make, healthy salad ideal for pairing with roasted meats or as a standalone dish.
    Get the Recipe: Cabbage Apple Salad

    Spring Onion Potato Salad

    A bowl of spring onion potato salad.
    Spring Onion Potato Salad. Photo credit: The Honour System.

    This potato salad features tender potatoes mixed with fresh spring onions and a creamy dressing. It’s a classic side dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. The spring onions add a mild kick, enhancing the overall taste.
    Get the Recipe: Spring Onion Potato Salad

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Hello! Welcome to VeggieChopsticks. I’m so glad you’re here. 🌱

    I'm Yuan—a writer, food lover, web developer, and passionate home cook based in Tennessee, USA.

    After launching SassyChopsticks to share Asian-inspired recipes rooted in my upbringing, I felt inspired to create a second space dedicated to something I love just as much: vibrant, wholesome vegetable and vegan recipes.

    More about me →

    Popular

    • Light and refreshing Asian salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and tangy dressing.
      Cool Cucumber Recipes That Instantly Refresh on Hot Days
    • Vegan Chocolate Butter Mochi on a brown cutting board.
      Chewy and Rich Chocolate Butter Mochi Recipe (Vegan)
    • Mango lemonade are displaying on a table.
      Fruit-Filled Summer Sips That Are Bursting With Flavor
    • A comforting, spiced dish featuring tender zucchini in a creamy curry sauce.
      Unexpected Ways to Cook With Zucchini This Summer

    Trending recipes

    • Cooked delicious sweet apples in a bowl, resting on a cozy pink towel.
      Easy and Delicious Caramelized Apples Recipe
    • A Mason jar filled with rice.
      Best Rice Flour Recipe for Gluten-Free Cooking
    • Healthy and flavorful stir-fry with fresh broccoli and mushrooms on a plate with a pair of silver color chopsticks.
      Flavor-Packed Vegetarian Stir-Fry Recipes
    • Spicy and savory Hunan-style tofu stir-fry on a plate with a pair of silver chopsticks.
      Colorful Vegetarian Skillet Recipes

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms & Conditions

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Contact

    • Contact

    As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.