5 Great Italian Summers Salads

Planning an outdoor menu but wondering what to make? Try these zesty Italian summer salads full of flavors and bright ingredients that bring the Mediterranean to your table. You'll love using seasonal ingredients like tomatoes, fennel and seafood in new and exciting ways. Here's what to make:

Panzanella Salad

A summer staple across Italy, this gorgeous panzanella salad (pictured above)  is a great way to use leftover bread. Pair it with ripe and juicy tomatoes, julienned onions, basil and even cucumbers for a refreshing meal. 

Fennel and Radicchio Salad

Here's a lovely summer salad that would be a great accompaniment to a juicy grilled steak. The earthiness of radicchio and the sweetness of fennel dance on your tongue when blended with walnuts, gorgonzola and a honey vinaigrette.

Seafood Salad

Seafood lovers, here's a bright picnic food idea for you: a fresh and delicious seafood salad from Southern Italy. You'll love feasting on this heavenly blend of octopus, clams, mussels, squid and prawns dressed in extra virgin olive oil and lemon.

Pasta Salad with Tuna

If you haven't indulged in Italian tuna packed in olive oil you are missing out on one of the best ways to enjoy this popular fish. This Italian pasta salad makes pairs tender tuna with Mediterranean favorites like tomatoes, red onions and arugula.

Tomato Salad with Parmesan

In Italy, Parmesan cheese isn't just used in pastas. It's a versatile ingredient that's great for summer salads, especially when paired with tomatoes, spicy arugula and savory capers. Here's a great recipe to serve with grilled meats or seafood.