In my family, we love salads because they’re an interesting way to blend many different flavors. This orzo salad is one of our favorites—it tastes delicious served either warm or cool.

Chicken Caesar pasta salad is like the Goldilocks of lunch ideas. It’s perfect when you’re too hungry for a salad, but not hungry enough for a heavy pasta dish.

The first version of this salad was an experiment in mixing together some random ingredients I had on hand. It was a success, and several people at the party asked for the recipe—which meant I had to re-create it! It's healthy, delicious and perfect for warm-weather days.

Cool, refreshing Asian noodle salad is just what you need on a steamy summer day; serve with shrimp, scallops or crispy chicken.

This tart, refreshing salad is a big hit in my home. All the tasty toppings—including red onions, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese and a zesty dressing—give it extra interest.

Five-bean salad makes the ideal bring-along to a summer potluck, given its variety of beans and flavors that play well with pulled pork sandwiches and juicy burgers. This salad is ideally suited to making in advance and serving chilled.

Whichever way my garden grows, I usually build my salad with green beans, radishes and a pesto made with tarragon. That adds a hint of licorice. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia

This protein-filled dish could be served as a colorful side dish or a meatless main entree. When you make it, double the recipe because it will be gone in a flash! The basmati rice adds a unique flavor and the dressing gives it a bit of a tang.

Vibrant, refreshing three-bean salad is a no-cook mix of green, wax and kidney beans, all tossed in a tangy sweet-and-sour dressing. This potluck crowd-pleaser pairs well with just about any main course.