One of the things that I love about May (and there are a lot!) is starting to refresh my diet with more fresh food and fewer heavy meals. Even though I try to follow a balanced diet, aka having to cook a lot every week, during the period from May to September, I always strive for more light yet nutritious food options. Maybe my desire comes from the fact that the weather gets warmer and frankly, a bowl of soup is not what I really need to comfort me, or because this time of the year it gets a bit busy at work, and I don’t have time for slow cooking and spending much time to the kitchen, especially when I want to spend time outdoors.

For this reason, one of my go-tos in my meal prep is salads. They are delicious, they are nutritious, and they are refreshing. Pretty much everything we need for a comforting and easy meal. The good thing about salads is that, depending on the ingredients, they can be a full meal that gives us all the nutrients we need without the extra calories. And as much as I like a classic cheeseburger from time to time, I insist on eating as many salads as I can.

And if you feel that talking about salads means boring bowls of limp lettuce, you don’t have to worry! Before I even got the chance to write this article, I have been testing and absolutely devouring five incredible salads that are currently rocking my culinary world. These aren't just side dishes; they are a complete meal, packed with seasonal goodies and designed to make your taste buds sing.

Get inspired and start the new month with fresh and delicious ideas!

Chicken Pasta Salad

Ok, this is my favorite so far and the most fulfilling dish that not only do I meal prep pretty much all year round, but it also makes the perfect dinner combined with a chilled glass of white wine and the appropriate movie. Nothing more refreshing and nothing more nutritious than this chicken pasta salad.

Greek Salad

Greek salad is more than a salad. One of the most renowned Greek dishes and the world’s favorite and most nutritious salad. And it has it all so that you don’t have to worry about pairing it with some food. Protein (from the feta cheese), fresh vegetables, omega-3, and antioxidants, all in one dish. Serve with some croutons to support your carb intake and ta-da! A complete, healthy and hearty salad ready for you!

Salmon Niçoise Salad

Inspired by the French classic, this salad is packed with protein and healthy fats. Flaked grilled or pan-seared salmon sits atop a bed of mixed greens, along with hard-boiled eggs, new potatoes, Niçoise olives, green beans, and ripe tomatoes. A Dijon vinaigrette brings all the flavors together beautifully. This salad is both nutritious and incredibly satisfying, and can be your meal prep favorite of the month!

Turkey and Wild Rice Salad With Cranberries and Pecans

This salad offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors and can be a complete and very healthy meal. Cooked wild rice forms a nutty base, topped with shredded cooked turkey breast (leftovers work great!), dried cranberries for sweetness, and crunchy toasted pecans. Celery and green onions add a bit of freshness and crunch. A light vinaigrette with a touch of maple syrup complements the other ingredients beautifully. Also, if you are not a fan of turkey, you can substitute it with chicken or tofu.

Greek Bowl with Haloumi

This bowl-style salad is packed with protein and delicious Mediterranean flavors. Roasted chickpeas are combined with grilled or pan-fried halloumi cheese, chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and fresh parsley. A lemon-herb vinaigrette ties everything together, and warm whole wheat pita bread on the side is perfect for scooping. Trust me, you won’t go back after this!