There’s nothing quite like a summer BBQ with friends and family—good company, sunshine, and the irresistible smell of food on the grill. While the spotlight often lands on burgers and sausages, a well-made salad can be the surprise star of the show.
At La Española, we believe a great salad brings balance to the BBQ table—adding freshness, colour, and a burst of flavour that complements grilled dishes beautifully.
Why Salads Deserve a Starring Role
A brilliant salad does more than fill a gap on your plate. It brings colour and contrast — cool against hot, crisp against smoky. Here’s why salads often become everyone’s favourite bite:
- Variety: Fresh herbs, fruits, dressings and bold ingredients can make each mouthful taste just that little bit diffferent .
- Texture contrast: Think creamy cheeses, crunchy nuts, soft roasted veg—every bite feels different.
- Seasonal goodness: Using what’s in season not only tastes better but looks more appealing too.
A vibrant salad can convert even the most committed carnivores.
Add a Fruity Twist
If you really want to turn heads at your next gathering, how about adding a fruity element to your salad?
This Peach, Serrano Ham & Mint Salad is a real showstopper. Sweet peaches, salty serrano ham, and cooling mint—brought together with a generous drizzle of La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil. It’s unexpected, colourful, and delicious.
Chicken Salad, But Better
Chicken salad is a BBQ classic, but it doesn’t have to be boring. Try our Griddled Lemon & Rosemary Chicken with Butter Bean Salad. Juicy grilled chicken with rosemary sits on a base of butter beans, cherry tomatoes, and crisp green beans—a protein-packed, satisfying salad that eats like a main.
A Hearty Vegan Option
Planning for guests with different diets? This Baby Potato, Red Onion & Vegan Cheese Salad is a proper crowd-pleaser. It’s delicious, filling and perfect for everyone – vegan or not. You might find the meat-eaters going in for seconds, so best make a big bowl.
Stick With What’s in Season
Using seasonal produce doesn’t just taste better—it looks better too. Here are some easy summer favourites to build your salads around:
- Tomatoes – ripe, juicy, and bursting with flavour in summer
- Cucumbers – cooling, crunchy and refreshing
- Bell peppers – sweet and colourful
- Fresh herbs – basil, parsley, mint or coriander all give your salad a lift
Choosing local, seasonal ingredients also supports growers closer to home and cuts down food miles.
How to Keep Your Salad Fresh
Nobody likes a soggy salad. These quick tips help your salads stay crisp and fresh:
- Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve
- Store components in airtight containers to keep them crisp
- Layer smartly if packing ahead—put sturdier ingredients like cucumber or peppers at the bottom, and delicate greens on top
- Transport in cool bags if heading to the park or beach
If guests can dress their own salad, even better—it adds a personal touch and avoids limp lettuce.
Pro Tip: Olive Oil Spray for the Grill
Want your grilled meat to taste even better? Try spraying it with La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil before it hits the grill. It adds a subtle, fruity richness that pairs beautifully with smoky flavours.
Ready to Fire Up the BBQ?
With these fresh salad ideas on hand, you’re all set for a summer gathering. Whether you’re tossing together tomatoes or going all out with grilled chicken and beans, just don’t forget that bottle of La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil—it’s the finishing touch every great salad deserves.