Gammon, cocktails, braaied meat, garlic bread... these are some of the foods that spell summer in our world. But we have to admit that between all the festive feasting we appreciate a good break to reset our digestive systems. That being said, any salads eaten over the summer holidays also need to be substantial. Enter these 10 summer salads that are not only delicious but also filling enough to stand on their own as a meal.

1.  Quinoa and avocado salad recipe

Adding grain to a salad is an easy way to make it more familiar. Pair it with seasonal avocado for creaminess and marinated fennel for freshness.

Quinoa and avocado salad recipe

2. Tuna pasta salad

Khanya brings together pantry staples such as canned tuna and pasta to make a quick, low-cost meal. Simply add spicy seasoning, fresh green mayonnaise and veggies.

Tuna pasta salad recipe

3. Peach-and-tomato salad

Make the most of seasonal peaches and tomatoes in this colourful salad. In her take on classic Italian salads such as Caprese and panzanella, Hannah tops the fruit with creamy cheese, green herb oil and crispy onions.

Peach-and-tomato salad recipe

4. Chicken Caesar salad with a twist

This classic salad is exactly what we think of when we want something fresh yet filling. Chicken and eggs add a protein boost, while radishes and lettuce add crispiness.

Chicken Caesar salad with a twist recipe

5. Mango-and-fried plantain salad

If you’re up for the challenge, serve seasonal mangoes with home-made ricotta. As a bonus, you can use the whey from making the cheese to create a flavour-packed vinaigrette.

Mango-and-fried plantain salad recipe

6. Mozzarella, poached leek, fennel and citrus salad

This salad is perfect for hosting friends as you can prep it in the morning. Poached leeks and mozzarella provide delicious creaminess that’s perfectly offset by the fresh acidity of fennel and oranges.

Mozzarella, poached leek, fennel and citrus salad recipe 

7. Warm “kabbouleh” salad

Phillippa puts a Los Angeles twist on the classic bulgur wheat salad by incorporating cooked kale. Toss it with tomatoes, spring onions, cucumber and herbs for a filling salad that keeps well, too.

Warm “kabbouleh” salad recipe 

8. Spinach, chickpea and bacon salad

If you have chickpeas and bacon, we guarantee you’ll be able to whip up a light yet substantial meal any day of the week. Just look at this salad. Get your greens in with some spinach, then drizzle a coriander-yoghurt dressing over the lot.

Spinach, chickpea and bacon salad recipe

9. Mediterranean couscous salad

Keep couscous, marinated artichokes and olives in your pantry so you can make this easy, textural salad whenever the mood strikes. Mix with some fresh veggies and herbs, then top with nuts and a drizzle of olive oil.

Mediterranean couscous salad recipe

10. Tuna-and-bean salad

If you wake up feeling like you just need a break from rich, festive food, this hearty salad is the way to go. Bonus: it can made using simple pantry ingredients.

Tuna-and-bean salad recipe 

And there you have it: 10 easy yet filling salads that will help you reset between all the big family feasts. Which ones are you making this summer?