Summer is here, and with it comes the perfect excuse to fire up the grill and get creative with your salads. There’s nothing like a refreshing bowl of goodness to accompany your outdoor adventures. And what better way to do that than with a deliciously smoky BBQ-inspired salad? In this article, we’ll dive into 18 mouth-watering recipes that combine the sweetness of summer produce with the tanginess of BBQ flavors.
From classic cobb salads to bold and spicy creations, these smoky BBQ salad recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re a fan of grilled chicken or pulled pork, black beans or crispy onions, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to elevate your summer salads game!
Grilled Chicken BBQ Cobb Salad
A twist on the classic salad, this Grilled Chicken BBQ Cobb Salad combines tender grilled chicken with crunchy vegetables and tangy dressing for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
– 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Brush both sides of the chicken breast with the mixture.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Let the chicken rest before slicing into strips.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, pecans, and bacon.
6. Add the grilled chicken on top and drizzle with BBQ sauce and lemon juice.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky BBQ Ranch Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the tanginess of ranch dressing with the smokiness of BBQ sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 2 tbsp. BBQ sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red bell pepper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and BBQ sauce.
4. Add cooked pasta to the vegetable mixture and toss to combine.
5. Pour the ranch-BBQ sauce over the pasta mixture and toss until well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pulled Pork BBQ Coleslaw Salad
This refreshing salad combines the tender sweetness of pulled pork with the tangy crunch of coleslaw, all wrapped up in a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pulled pork ( leftover from a BBQ or store-bought)
– 2 cups coleslaw mix
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the pulled pork and coleslaw mix.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the pork and slaw mixture, tossing to combine.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep) + refrigeration time
Grilled Corn and Black Bean BBQ Salad
A delicious twist on traditional salads, this recipe combines the smoky sweetness of grilled corn with the savory flavor of black beans and a tangy BBQ dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup grilled corn kernels (see grilling instructions below)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
– 1/4 cup BBQ dressing
Grilling Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Remove husks from corn ears and brush with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until slightly charred.
Assembly and Serving:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, black beans, grilled corn kernels, feta cheese (if using), and cilantro (if using).
2. Drizzle BBQ dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Bacon Ranch Potato Salad
A creamy and smoky twist on traditional potato salad, this recipe combines the flavors of BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and tangy ranch dressing for a delicious side dish perfect for picnics or barbecues.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
2. Drain the potatoes and let them cool to room temperature.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, and ranch dressing.
4. Add the cooled potatoes, crumbled bacon, and chopped chives (if using) to the bowl. Toss until everything is well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy BBQ Shrimp and Avocado Salad
Get ready to spice up your salad game with this mouth-watering combination of succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and tangy BBQ flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Spicy BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together Spicy BBQ sauce and shrimp. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine grilled shrimp, avocado, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.
5. Toss gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-30 minutes (depending on marinating time)
Smoked Brisket BBQ Salad with Blue Cheese
Elevate your salad game with this bold and tangy recipe that combines the richness of smoked brisket, the creaminess of blue cheese, and the crunch of fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked brisket, thinly sliced
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled red onion
– 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, cilantro, and red onion.
2. Add sliced smoked brisket on top of the salad.
3. Drizzle with BBQ sauce and olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply assemble the ingredients and serve.
BBQ Ranch Chopped Salad with Crispy Onions
Add a twist to the classic chopped salad with the smoky flavor of BBQ ranch dressing and crispy onions.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp BBQ ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup crispy onions (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chicken breast, blue cheese, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.
2. Drizzle with BBQ ranch dressing and toss to coat.
3. Top the salad with crispy onions.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Crispy Onion Recipe:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Toss onion slices with breadcrumbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Grilled Peach and BBQ Chicken Salad
A sweet and savory twist on traditional salads, this Grilled Peach and BBQ Chicken Salad is perfect for a summer evening. Fresh peaches, crispy chicken, and tangy BBQ sauce come together in a harmonious blend of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and 1 tablespoon water.
3. Grill peaches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, grilled chicken, sliced peaches, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped nuts.
5. Drizzle with BBQ sauce and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Salad with Lime Dressing
A twist on traditional pulled pork, this BBQ jackfruit salad is a flavorful and refreshing vegan option perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked jackfruit (canned or fresh)
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Lime dressing (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked jackfruit and BBQ sauce until well coated.
3. Spread the jackfruit mixture on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until caramelized.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and chopped cilantro.
5. Top with the pulled jackfruit and drizzle with lime dressing (see below).
Lime Dressing:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky BBQ Chickpea and Quinoa Salad
This flavorful salad combines the smokiness of BBQ sauce with the nuttiness of quinoa, all wrapped up in a refreshing chickpea and vegetable mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, red bell pepper, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time) + refrigeration time
Grilled Vegetable BBQ Salad with Feta
Grilled Vegetable BBQ Salad with Feta
A flavorful and refreshing salad perfect for a summer evening, featuring grilled vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a hint of smoky BBQ flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed color bell peppers, sliced
– 1 cup zucchini, sliced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 grilled vegetable skewers (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey.
3. Add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion to the bowl. Toss to coat.
4. Grill the vegetables for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender.
5. Cut the grilled vegetables into bite-sized pieces and transfer to a large serving bowl.
6. Crumble feta cheese over the top and sprinkle with parsley.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Ranch Taco Salad with Ground Beef
This classic taco salad gets a tangy twist with the addition of BBQ ranch dressing and crispy tortilla strips. A hearty and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8 oz tortellini, cooked and drained
– 1 head of lettuce, chopped
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup BBQ ranch dressing
– 6-8 tortilla strips
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef according to package instructions, season with taco seasoning.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, lettuce, black beans, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
3. Add BBQ ranch dressing and toss to coat.
4. Top with cooked ground beef and crispy tortilla strips.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Sausage and BBQ Bean Salad
This hearty salad combines the smoky flavor of smoked sausage with the sweet and tangy taste of BBQ beans, all on top of a bed of crisp greens. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 cup BBQ beans (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill sausage for 5-7 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and BBQ beans.
4. Slice grilled sausage into thin strips and add on top of salad.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Pineapple BBQ Chicken Salad
A sweet and tangy twist on the classic chicken salad, featuring grilled pineapple and a hint of BBQ flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 ripe pineapple, sliced into wedges
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken breast for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Brush pineapple wedges with olive oil and season with salt. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and 1 tsp olive oil.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips. Toss with BBQ sauce mixture.
6. Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese (if using), and grilled pineapple in a large bowl.
7. Top with sliced chicken and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Ranch Broccoli Salad with Almonds
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this refreshing summer salad that combines the crunch of broccoli, the tanginess of BBQ ranch dressing, and the nutty goodness of almonds. This recipe is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 1 cup crumbled cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets, mayonnaise, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in chopped almonds and crumbled cheddar cheese (if using).
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
4. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in no time.
Spicy BBQ Cauliflower and Kale Salad
Get ready to spice up your salad game with this bold and flavorful combination of roasted cauliflower, kale, and a tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed
– 1/4 cup Spicy BBQ Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower with 1 tablespoon olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large bowl, massage kale leaves with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil until slightly softened.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Spicy BBQ Sauce and 1 tablespoon water to thin it out. Pour sauce over kale and toss to combine.
4. Add roasted cauliflower to the bowl and toss everything together.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if using.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky BBQ Lentil and Sweet Potato Salad
This hearty salad combines the comforting flavors of sweet potatoes and lentils with a tangy smoky BBQ twist, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, roasted sweet potatoes, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together smoked paprika and apple cider vinegar. Pour over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if using.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill and indulge in some delicious summer salads with a smoky twist! In this collection of 18 BBQ salad recipes, you’ll find inspiration for grilled chicken, pork, shrimp, and more. From classic Cobb salad to innovative quinoa bowls, these mouth-watering creations combine the flavors of barbecue with fresh vegetables, fruits, and cheeses. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or just looking for a quick lunch, these smoky BBQ salads are sure to please. So go ahead, get grilling, and enjoy the perfect fusion of sweet and savory!
