As the summer sun beats down, there’s nothing quite like gathering with friends and family to enjoy a delicious BBQ feast. But why stop at just the main event? Elevate your outdoor dining experience with these 18 flavorful BBQ salad recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic combinations featuring grilled chicken and pulled pork, to bold twists incorporating everything from smoky brisket to spicy shrimp, there’s a BBQ salad here for every taste. And the best part? These salads are perfect for hot summer days, as they’re refreshing, easy to make, and can be tailored to your favorite flavors.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these mouthwatering recipes, featuring everything from creamy ranch dressings to tangy BBQ sauces. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just looking for some inspiration for your next outdoor gathering, you won’t want to miss these amazing BBQ salad ideas.
Grilled Chicken BBQ Cobb Salad
A classic summer salad gets a boost with grilled chicken and tangy BBQ sauce. This refreshing recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Brush with BBQ sauce during last minute of grilling.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, and pecans.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add on top of salad.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoky BBQ Pulled Pork Salad
This refreshing salad combines the tender taste of smoky pulled pork with crunchy greens and a tangy dressing, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. With its bold flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup Smoky BBQ Sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper. Place it in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, and cover with foil.
2. Cook for 8 hours or overnight, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
3. Shred the pork with two forks, then mix with Smoky BBQ Sauce.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
5. Add the pulled pork on top and drizzle with Apple Cider Vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (or overnight)
BBQ Ranch Chopped Salad
Get ready for a flavorful twist on the classic salad! This BBQ ranch chopped salad combines the tanginess of ranch dressing with the sweetness of grilled chicken and the crunch of fresh veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp ranch dressing
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Brush BBQ sauce on the grilled chicken during the last minute of cooking.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and crumbled feta cheese.
5. Slice the grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to the salad.
6. Drizzle with ranch dressing and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Corn and Black Bean BBQ Salad
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful and nutritious Grilled Corn and Black Bean BBQ Salad, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend picnic. The combination of smoky grilled corn, creamy black beans, and tangy BBQ dressing will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup BBQ dressing
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill corn for 5-7 minutes, turning frequently, until slightly charred.
2. In a large bowl, combine black beans, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese (if using), and cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Slice grilled corn off the cob and add to the salad.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Bacon and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the smokiness of BBQ bacon with the creaminess of avocado, all on a bed of crisp greens. Perfect for a quick summer dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with foil and lay the bacon slices on it.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and caramelized.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Top with diced avocado.
6. Crumble the BBQ bacon into small pieces and sprinkle over the salad.
7. Drizzle apple cider vinegar and olive oil over the top.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy BBQ Shrimp Salad
Elevate your salad game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon spicy BBQ sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, and spicy BBQ sauce.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers (if using) and brush with the BBQ glaze.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Combine chopped bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese in a large bowl.
6. Slice grilled shrimp into bite-sized pieces and add to the salad.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
BBQ Brisket and Kale Salad
Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked brisket paired with a refreshing kale salad, perfect for a summer dinner or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket
– 1/4 cup BBQ rub
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 cup kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season brisket with BBQ rub and brown sugar.
3. Place brisket in a large Dutch oven or heavy roasting pan, cover with foil, and cook for 4 hours.
4. Remove brisket from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
5. Meanwhile, massage kale leaves with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper until tender.
6. Combine sliced brisket, kale salad, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and pecans in a large bowl.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (brisket) + 15 minutes (resting time)
Grilled Peach and BBQ Chicken Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the sweetness of grilled peaches with the smokiness of BBQ chicken, all on top of a bed of crisp greens. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish for your next barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest before slicing.
3. Brush peach slices with BBQ sauce and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced grilled chicken, grilled peaches, feta cheese, and cilantro.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Ranch Pasta Salad
A twist on traditional pasta salad, this BBQ Ranch Pasta Salad combines the flavors of tangy ranch dressing and sweet BBQ sauce with al dente pasta, crisp vegetables, and savory protein.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese (if using).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and BBQ sauce. Pour over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired) and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked BBQ Turkey and Quinoa Salad
Elevate your salad game with this smoky twist on traditional quinoa bowls! Smoked BBQ turkey, crunchy veggies, and creamy avocado come together for a flavor-packed meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C). Season turkey breast with liquid smoke and BBQ sauce.
2. Smoke the turkey for 2-3 hours, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, feta cheese, and avocado.
4. Slice the smoked turkey into thin strips and add to the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (smoking) + 10 minutes (assembly)
BBQ Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad
Elevate your salad game with this unique BBQ Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad recipe! Tender cauliflower florets and creamy chickpeas are smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce, then topped with crunchy greens and crispy tortilla strips.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1/4 cup crispy tortilla strips (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cauliflower with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and chickpeas. Add roasted cauliflower and toss to coat.
3. Divide mixed greens among four plates. Top each plate with the BBQ cauliflower mixture. Sprinkle crispy tortilla strips on top.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Steak BBQ Salad with Blue Cheese
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful combination of grilled steak, tangy blue cheese, and sweet BBQ sauce, all on top of crisp greens. This hearty salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season steak with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
4. Slice grilled steak into thin strips and place on top of the salad.
5. Crumble blue cheese over the steak and drizzle with BBQ sauce.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Tofu and Spinach Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this BBQ tofu and spinach salad combines the smoky flavors of grilled tofu with the crispness of fresh spinach and tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups of fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Balsamic vinaigrette dressing for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, maple syrup, and smoked paprika.
3. Place tofu cubes in the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 10 minutes.
4. Grill tofu for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
6. Serve grilled tofu on top of the salad, drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette dressing.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Ranch Potato Salad
This BBQ ranch potato salad combines the flavors of smoky barbecue and tangy ranch dressing with classic potato salad ingredients, creating a unique and delicious side dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ranch dressing, and BBQ sauce until smooth.
3. Add the cooled potatoes, chives, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (boiling potatoes), 30 minutes (refrigeration)
Grilled Veggie BBQ Salad with Feta
Grilled Veggie BBQ Salad with Feta Recipe
Enjoy a flavorful and refreshing summer salad featuring the smoky sweetness of grilled vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a hint of BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 yellow squash, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the vegetables with olive oil, season with garlic, salt, and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine grilled vegetables, BBQ sauce, and mixed greens.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Salad
Get ready to elevate your salad game with this unique and delicious BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Salad recipe! Tender jackfruit is slow-cooked in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, then mixed with crisp greens, crunchy veggies, and creamy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jackfruit (canned or fresh)
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together jackfruit, BBQ sauce, and 1 tablespoon of water. Cook for 3-4 hours or until the jackfruit is tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
4. Add the cooked jackfruit to the salad and drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (slow cooker time)
BBQ Ranch Coleslaw Salad
A twist on the classic coleslaw recipe, this BBQ Ranch version adds a tangy and creamy element with the addition of ranch dressing and BBQ sauce. Perfect for your next backyard barbecue or picnic!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
– 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing mixture over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just prepare and chill.
Grilled Pineapple and BBQ Chicken Salad
This refreshing Grilled Pineapple and BBQ Chicken Salad combines the best of summer flavors: juicy grilled chicken, caramelized pineapple, and crunchy greens. Perfect for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Meanwhile, brush pineapple chunks with BBQ sauce and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced grilled chicken, and grilled pineapple.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill and your taste buds with these 18 flavorful BBQ salad recipes perfect for summer! From classic combinations like grilled chicken and cobb salad, to innovative twists like smoky pulled pork and black bean, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy shrimp or sweet grilled peaches, these mouth-watering salads are sure to satisfy your cravings. With a range of options from vegetarian to meat-lover, there’s never been a better time to try something new and delicious.
