We love potato and pasta salad at a cookout, but why stop there? This roundup of flavorful Labor Day salads goes beyond the usual barbecue side salad. From bold orzo and quinoa salads to crisp apple slaw, fresh corn salad, and Southern-style cracker salad, guests will fill their plates with these light and summery dishes.
Orzo and Garbanzo Bean Salad With Basil and Mint
“I make this orzo salad a lot during the spring and summer. I’m totally addicted to it. My whole family loves it, and it’s perfect for an outdoor picnic or concert where you can bring a meal.” – Patricia
Summertime Corn Salad
“This is a quick and easy summertime recipe I have been making for years, and not only in the summer! My husband and kids love this salad, and it is great for picnics and family get-togethers.” – Mary Ann
Cracker Salad
“I have had this recipe for a few years. A lady gave it to me at a gospel singing. She had brought it, and I was surprised at how tasty it was. I have used it quite often since. It is simple and good.” – Mary
Cold Spaghetti Salad
“You can add black olives, you can add pepperoni, or also change to bowtie pasta… endless possibilities.” – Bea
Garden Couscous Salad
“My husband introduced me to this family favorite. Honestly, I had never tried couscous before this. I can’t believe how versatile it is and simple, of course! This dish is perfect for company, camping, weekday lunches, etc. Try it out. Add other elements if you want. Take out what you don’t like.” – Karie
Red Skinned Potato Salad With Bacon
“When I ask my husband if he wants potato salad, he says, Yes, the good one. That means everything’s better with bacon to him… It’s so true.” – Rose
Watermelon Caprese Salad
“Watermelon Caprese Salad combines sweet watermelon with tangy balsamic. The mozzarella and salt add a nice contrast, and the basil adds freshness. This salad is what summer dreams are made of.” – Featured Blogger
Apple Slaw Salad
“This is my variation on an old family recipe. It’s good on a sandwich or on its own. Toss into a green salad, add cooked and diced chicken and you have a wonderful meal. It’s delicious!” – Teresa
Greek Spinach and Orzo Salad
“Learning to prepare Mediterranean, healthy food. Tried this recipe on my family, and now it is a huge hit. The pine nuts add crunch and protein, and orzo completes it as a meal salad.” – Peggy
Couscous Salad
“Minty comfort food that leaves you feeling good about yourself, and it tastes so good.” – Joeyjoan
Mediterranean Salad
“Light salad with great Greek flavor. After a couple of hours, the croutons will begin to absorb the dressing. Some people like this; others do not. Time the addition of the croutons to suit your taste.” – Liz
Greek Asparagus Salad
“It’s such a simple and easy recipe with huge flavors.” – Nick
Orzo Salad
“This is a favorite salad I make often. It’s so versatile, you can really make it your own easily! Make sure to taste the dressing as you are making it to adjust to your liking!” – Lindsey
Black Bean and Quinoa Salad With A Kick
“This has become one of my family’s favorites. It is perfect for summer potlucks, and I always get asked for the recipe. Besides being awesome for the way it tastes, it is also awesome because of all the good stuff in it. Quinoa is the only complete vegetarian protein without having to combine things. But, in this recipe, the black beans and corn make for another complete protein.” – Amy
Burrata Strawberry Caprese Salad
“A fresh strawberry salad, caprese style, with basil and mozzarella, or in this case, fresh creamy burrata!” – Kevin