18 Refreshing Salad Recipes with Ice Cream and More

When it comes to salads, most people think of plain old lettuce and veggies. But why settle for boring when you can elevate your greens game with creative ingredients and unexpected flavors? Enter: our latest obsession – refreshing salad recipes with a sweet twist! We’re talking ice cream (yes, you read that right) and more, added to classic combinations to create unique and mouthwatering dishes that will keep you coming back for more. From tangy to sweet, crunchy to creamy, we’ve got 18 game-changing salad recipes that are sure to spice up your lunch or dinner routine.

Classic Caesar Salad with Vanilla Ice Cream Drizzle

A timeless twist on the classic, this recipe combines the rich flavors of a traditional Caesar salad with the creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream. Perfect for a special occasion or a mid-week treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 head romaine lettuce
– 1/2 cup homemade Caesar dressing (or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup croutons
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 1 pint vanilla ice cream

Instructions:

1. Wash and dry the romaine lettuce, then tear into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, Caesar dressing, and croutons. Toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the salad and toss gently.
4. Scoop vanilla ice cream into small balls or slices, depending on your preference.
5. Place the ice cream “drizzles” on top of the salad.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparing ingredients) + serving

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Ice Cream Glaze

This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of strawberries with the earthiness of spinach, topped with a creamy balsamic glaze that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and sliced strawberries.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the balsamic vinegar and honey, whisking until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Drizzle the cooled glaze over the salad and sprinkle with feta cheese (if using) and chopped nuts.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Grilled Chicken Salad with Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Topping

Elevate your salad game with this refreshing summer treat! Grilled chicken, crisp greens, and sweet mint chocolate chip ice cream come together for a delightful combination.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mint chocolate chip ice cream (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and olive oil; grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh mint leaves.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and place on top of salad.
5. Scoop mint chocolate chip ice cream on top of the salad.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (grilling time only)

Avocado and Mango Salad with Coconut Ice Cream Dressing

Escape to a tropical paradise with this creamy and refreshing Avocado and Mango Salad, topped with a rich Coconut Ice Cream Dressing.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado and mango.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the coconut cream, honey, and lime juice until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the avocado-mango mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just 5 minutes!

Quinoa and Kale Salad with Pistachio Ice Cream Crumbles

This refreshing salad combines nutty quinoa, crispy kale, and crunchy pistachio ice cream crumbles for a unique flavor experience. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 scoop pistachio ice cream, crumbled

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped kale, red bell pepper, and feta cheese (if using).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Pour over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top with crumbled pistachio ice cream.
5. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Watermelon and Feta Salad with Lime Sorbet Ice Cream

Beat the heat with this unique and refreshing summer salad that combines sweet watermelon, salty feta, and tangy lime sorbet ice cream.

Ingredients:

– 3 cups diced watermelon
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
– Lime Sorbet Ice Cream (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine diced watermelon and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Sprinkle chopped fresh mint leaves over the top.
3. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and sprinkle with salt to taste.
4. Serve immediately, topped with a scoop of Lime Sorbet Ice Cream.

Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.

Asian-Inspired Sesame Salad with Green Tea Ice Cream

Experience the harmonious blend of East meets West with this refreshing sesame salad paired with a scoop of creamy green tea ice cream. Perfect for a light and satisfying dessert or as a unique side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup mixed greens
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup diced mango
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 scoop green tea ice cream

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, toasted sesame seeds, chopped scallions, and diced mango.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately with a scoop of green tea ice cream on top.

Cooking Time: None

Caprese Salad with Basil Ice Cream Infusion

Elevate your classic caprese salad game by incorporating the creamy sweetness of basil ice cream into every bite. This refreshing summer side dish is perfect for warm weather gatherings and will leave your guests begging for more.

Ingredients:

– 3 large, ripe tomatoes, sliced
– 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
– 1/4 cup basil ice cream (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Arrange tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top with mozzarella cheese slices, leaving small gaps between each piece.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad, followed by balsamic glaze.
4. Scoop basil ice cream into small balls and place around the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Note: To make basil ice cream, combine 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil in a blender. Blend until smooth, then churn according to your ice cream maker’s instructions.

Roasted Beet Salad with Honey Lavender Ice Cream

This sweet and earthy salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the floral notes of honey lavender ice cream, creating a unique and delightful flavor experience.

Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
– Honey Lavender Ice Cream (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Let the beets cool, then peel and dice into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted beets, and crumbled goat cheese (if using).
4. Scoop the Honey Lavender Ice Cream on top of the salad and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Greek Salad with Yogurt Ice Cream Drizzle

Greek Salad with Yogurt Ice Cream Drizzle Recipe

This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Greece with a sweet and creamy twist – a drizzle of yogurt ice cream! Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pint yogurt ice cream (plain or flavored)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta cheese, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and white wine vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Scoop yogurt ice cream into small balls and place on top of the salad.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10 minutes ( prep time only)

Tropical Fruit Salad with Passion Fruit Ice Cream

Escape to a tropical paradise with this vibrant fruit salad paired with creamy passion fruit ice cream. A perfect treat for warm weather gatherings or as a refreshing dessert any time of the year.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup mixed tropical fruits (mango, pineapple, kiwi, papaya)
– 1/2 cup passion fruit puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the tropical fruits.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the passion fruit puree and sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract.
4. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before pouring it over the fruit salad.
5. Serve chilled or frozen.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Grilled Shrimp Salad with Mango Ice Cream Glaze

Elevate your summer salads with this tropical twist! Succulent grilled shrimp, mixed greens, and sweet mango ice cream glaze come together for a refreshing and flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup mango ice cream (softened)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Brush mixture on both sides of shrimp.
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
5. Slice grilled shrimp into bite-sized pieces and add to salad.
6. Drizzle softened mango ice cream glaze over the top (about 1-2 tablespoons).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Pasta Salad with Lemon Ice Cream Dressing

A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines cooked pasta with a tangy lemon ice cream dressing and a medley of colorful vegetables.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, carrots)
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup vanilla ice cream (softened)
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed vegetables, lemon juice, softened ice cream, and olive oil. Toss until well combined.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Waldorf Salad with Caramel Ice Cream Topping

This Waldorf salad recipe gets a sweet and indulgent makeover with the addition of caramel ice cream topping. The combination of crunchy apples, celery, and walnuts, along with creamy grapes and tangy mayonnaise, is elevated to new heights with the rich and velvety caramel sauce.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup diced apple
– 1/2 cup diced celery
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup red grapes, halved
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pint vanilla ice cream
– Caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced apple, celery, walnuts, and grapes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Scoop vanilla ice cream into individual serving cups or bowls.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of each scoop of ice cream.
6. Serve immediately, with the Waldorf salad on the side.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Grilled Peach Salad with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

This sweet and savory salad combines the flavors of summer with the creaminess of vanilla bean ice cream. Perfect for a warm evening or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 4 ripe peaches, sliced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vanilla bean ice cream (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush peach slices with honey and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped pecans.
4. Top salad with grilled peaches and serve immediately.
5. Scoop vanilla bean ice cream alongside the salad and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (grilling time)

Berry Medley Salad with Raspberry Sorbet Ice Cream

A sweet and refreshing summer salad featuring a colorful medley of berries, perfectly paired with creamy raspberry sorbet ice cream.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup granola
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 pint raspberry sorbet ice cream

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed berries and chopped mint leaves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and 1 tablespoon of water until well combined.
3. Pour the honey mixture over the berry mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle the granola evenly over the salad.
5. Scoop the raspberry sorbet ice cream into individual serving bowls or cones.
6. Serve the salad alongside the ice cream for a sweet and satisfying treat.

Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook recipe, perfect for hot summer days.

Cucumber and Mint Salad with Cucumber Ice Cream Dressing

Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing salad, perfect for a summer evening or as a palate cleanser between courses. The creamy cucumber ice cream dressing adds a unique twist to the classic combination of cucumbers and mint.

Ingredients:

– 4 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– Cucumber ice cream dressing (see below)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber slices and mint leaves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, honey, and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the cucumber-mint mixture and toss gently.
4. Season with salt to taste.

Cucumber Ice Cream Dressing:

– 1 ripe cucumber, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Combine cucumber and heavy cream in a blender. Add sugar and blend until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: None! Just assemble the salad and serve chilled.

Chickpea and Veggie Salad with Tahini Ice Cream Drizzle

This refreshing salad combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the crunch of fresh vegetables, topped off with a rich and tangy tahini ice cream drizzle.

Ingredients:

– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup tahini ice cream (see below for recipe)

Tahini Ice Cream Recipe:

– 1/2 cup tahini paste
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, drizzle tahini ice cream over the salad.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (not including chilling time)

Summary

Get ready to take your salad game to the next level! This article features 18 refreshing salad recipes that combine classic flavors with unique twists. From classic Caesar with a vanilla ice cream drizzle to grilled chicken with mint chocolate chip ice cream topping, these salads are sure to satisfy any craving. Other creative combinations include avocado and mango with coconut ice cream dressing, quinoa and kale with pistachio ice cream crumbles, and many more. Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or a sweet treat, there’s a salad recipe here for everyone.