Summer salads are a perfect way to beat the heat and enjoy fresh, light, and healthy meals. One ingredient that's often overlooked but adds a unique touch to your salads is hearts of palm.

Hearts of palm are the tender cores of certain species of palm trees and have a crisp, tender texture similar to artichoke hearts. They're also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a nutritious addition to any summer salad.

Here are some of the best summer salads to try with hearts of palm:

1. Hearts of Palm and Avocado Salad: Combine sliced hearts of palm with creamy avocado, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a simple lemon-olive oil dressing for a satisfying and delicious salad.

2. Hearts of Palm and Strawberry Salad: For a sweet and tangy twist, add sliced hearts of palm to a mix of fresh strawberries, feta cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette.

3. Hearts of Palm and Mango Salad: This tropical-inspired salad combines sliced hearts of palm with juicy mango, crisp bell peppers, and a honey-lime dressing.

4. Hearts of Palm and Grilled Chicken Salad: For a heartier option, add grilled chicken to a mix of sliced hearts of palm, mixed greens, and a tangy mustard vinaigrette.

5. Hearts of Palm and Quinoa Salad: This filling salad is made with cooked quinoa, sliced hearts of palm, roasted vegetables, like zucchini and cherry tomatoes, and a lemon-tahini dressing.

Whether you're looking for a light lunch or a side dish for a summer barbecue, summer salads with hearts of palm are the perfect choice. So why not give them a try this summer season!

For detailed recipes of some of 2023 most creative hearts of palm salads out there, click the image: