Cherry Red Salad I’m Obsessed With for Every Summer BBQ

Looking for a vibrant, refreshing side that steals the show at every summer gathering? The Cherry Red Salad I’m Obsessed With for Every Summer BBQ is exactly that a bright, colorful dish bursting with juicy cherries and crisp, fresh veggies. This Cherry Red Salad brings a delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds

Whether you’re grilling burgers or enjoying a laid-back picnic, this salad adds a perfect pop of color and flavor that complements all your favorite BBQ classics. Easy to make and packed with seasonal ingredients, it’s the kind of dish that quickly becomes a seasonal staple.

Why I Can’t Stop Making These Cookies

• Quick to prepare with just a handful of fresh ingredients
• Flavor twist that balances sweet cherries and zesty dressing perfectly
• Uses staple pantry and fridge items, so it’s super convenient
• Kid-friendly with a naturally sweet flavor kids love
• Seasonal appeal cherries and crisp veggies at peak freshness

What Type of [Main Ingredient] Should I Use?

When it comes to the cherries in this Cherry Red Salad, choose fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor and texture. Dark red Bing cherries are ideal their natural sweetness and firm bite shine here. Avoid overripe cherries as they tend to be mushy and watery. If fresh cherries aren’t available, frozen cherries can work well after thawing completely and draining to avoid excess moisture. Dried cherries are an option too but will change the texture and sweetness profile. If using dried, soak briefly in warm water or juice to plump them up, then drain thoroughly.

Options for Ingredient Alternatives

• Substitute olive oil with avocado oil or light vegetable oil for a milder flavor
• Use lemon juice or apple cider vinegar in place of red wine vinegar for different acidity
• Swap fresh cherries with frozen or dried (soaked and drained) for off-season versions
• Add fresh herbs like basil or mint for a flavor twist
• If using solid coconut oil instead of oil, chill salad slightly before serving to maintain texture

The Biggest Challenges While Baking

• Not applicable, but in assembling this salad:
• Avoid chopping ingredients too far in advance to keep them fresh and crisp
• Drain cherries well to prevent watery dressing
• Toss salad just before serving to maintain crunch and vivid colors
• Balance seasoning, adding salt and vinegar gradually to avoid overpowering
• If making ahead, store dressing separately and combine before serving

Storage & Freezing Instructions

This Cherry Red Salad is best enjoyed fresh but will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days if stored in an airtight container. Keep the dressing separate and combine just before serving to prevent wilting. Avoid freezing as fresh vegetables and cherries lose texture and flavor when thawed. For make-ahead prep, chop ingredients and store individually in airtight containers, then toss everything together on the day of your BBQ.

Estimated Nutrition

For the entire batch, approximate nutrition is:

• Calories: 280
• Total fat: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 20 g (mostly natural from cherries)
• Protein: 3 g

Per serving (about 1 cup or 150 g):

• Calories: 70–90
• Fat: 3–4 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Fiber: 1–2 g
• Sugar: 5–6 g
• Protein: 1 g

Ingredients

• 3 cups fresh Bing cherries, pitted and halved (450 g)
• 2 cups chopped cucumber, peeled if preferred (300 g)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (150 g)
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced (75 g)
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (150 g)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (15 g)
• 3 Tbsp olive oil (45 ml)
• 2 Tbsp red wine vinegar (30 ml)
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Rinse and pit the cherries, cutting them in halves. Set aside in a large salad bowl.
2. Chop cucumber into bite-sized pieces and add to the bowl with the cherries.
3. Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them in. Follow with thinly sliced red onion.
4. Sprinkle in crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh basil leaves.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss to combine everything without bruising the cherries or crushing the veggies.
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate, keeping the dressing separate if longer than one hour before serving.

Tips, Variations & Serving Ideas

• Add toasted almonds or walnuts for extra crunch
• Swap feta for goat cheese or mozzarella balls for a creamier texture
• Stir in fresh mint or parsley for a fresh herb twist
• For a protein boost, top with grilled chicken or shrimp
• Leave out onions if grilling for kids, or substitute with sweet bell peppers
• Under-dress slightly to keep the salad fresh longer
• Serve in a large glass bowl or colorful dish for a festive presentation

FAQs

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, prep ingredients in advance but toss with dressing right before serving to keep everything crisp.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have fresh cherries?
A: Frozen cherries work well after thawing and draining; dried cherries can be soaked and drained for a different texture.

Q: Is this salad vegan-friendly?
A: Skip the feta or replace it with a plant-based cheese to make this salad vegan.

Q: How long does the salad stay fresh?
A: Once dressed, best eaten within 1–2 hours. Undressed components can be stored in the fridge for 1–2 days.

Save This for Later (Pinterest)

If this Cherry Red Salad is already sounding like your new summer favorite, be sure to save or share it on Pinterest to keep the recipe handy for your next BBQ or picnic. It’s the perfect crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again!