There’s something about a salad like this that truly captures the essence of summer—fresh, vibrant, and effortlessly satisfying. Mare’s Summer Salad is exactly that kind of dish, bringing together bright flavors and simple ingredients in a way that feels both elevated and easy.

Juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken is layered over crisp greens with colorful vegetables, briny bites, and a sprinkle of creamy cheese, creating a balance that’s light yet filling. Finished with a fresh, zesty dressing, every bite is refreshing, flavorful, and full of texture.

This is the kind of recipe that’s perfect for warm-weather meals—whether you’re hosting friends, enjoying a relaxed dinner outside, or putting together something quick that still feels special. Fresh, beautiful, and full of flavor, it’s a summer staple you’ll come back to again and again. Now that you can see why this has become one of my go-to favorites, it’s time to make it for yourself. With simple ingredients and just a few easy steps, it comes together effortlessly while still feeling fresh, vibrant, and a little elevated

Serves: 1-2

Ingredients

1 chicken breast

1 teaspoon honey

3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Salt

Pepper

2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped

1/4 cup shredded carrots

1/4 Sun dried tomatoes, halved

2 tablespoons feta cheese, crumbled

1/2 seedless cucumber, cut into half moons

1 tablespoon parsley, chopped

Dressing

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Salt & pepper

1 teaspoon dijon mustard

1/3 teaspoon dried rosemary (feel free to use fresh if you prefer and chop it)

Instructions

In a plastic ziplock bag, place chicken along with extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt and pepper. Shake bag very well and make sure chicken breast is coated in marinade. While chicken marinades for about 10-15 minutes, chop up all the salad ingredients (lettuce, carrots if you didn’t buy them shredded already, sun dried tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese and parsley). Add all salad ingredients to a bowl and set side. In a small bowl mix all the ingredients together for salad dressing and set aside. Take your chicken breast and add it to a hot sauté pan with a little oil. Make sure chicken is cooked thoroughly and is not pink inside. After chicken is cooked, transfer to a cutting board. Slice chicken breast length wise and serve on top of salad. If you have any extra parsley sprinkle it on top of salad. Pour salad dressing all over salad and toss until well combined, Enjoy!

*Note* Feel free to grill chicken breast instead of sautéing it.