Hot weather in East London, a sweaty PT session in Victoria Park, and zero desire to cook? We get it. But grabbing a beige snack or skipping lunch won’t do your body (or energy levels) any favours, especially if you’re trying to build strength, recover from training, or just feel good through the day.
That’s where our favourite summer salads come in. At KBPT, we’re all about real food and nutrition advice that fuels your goals. These recipes are colourful, satisfying and most importantly, it’s packed with protein.
Bonus: They’re perfect post-workout meals, make-ahead lunches or garden dinner ideas. No soggy lettuce here.
1. Edamame + Quinoa Rainbow Salad (Vegan)
Fresh, crunchy, protein-loaded and ideal for meal prep.
You’ll need:
- ½ cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup edamame (defrosted if frozen)
- ½ red pepper, chopped
- 1 grated carrot
- ½ avocado, diced
- Fresh coriander, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime + 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt + pepper
How to:
Toss everything except the avocado together. Fold the avo in gently last and eat straight away or chill for later.
2. Warm Halloumi + Chickpea Salad (Vegetarian)
KBPT client favourite. Big flavour, big satisfaction.
You’ll need:
- 1 block halloumi, sliced
- 1 tin chickpeas, drained
- Cherry tomatoes + cucumber
- A handful of rocket or spinach
- Olive oil + lemon juice
- Chilli flakes (optional)
How to:
Pan-fry the halloumi until golden. Mix the rest in a bowl with oil + lemon. Add halloumi on top, sprinkle chilli flakes. Done.
3. Roasted Veg + Boiled Egg Bowl (Vegetarian)
Easy to batch-cook and great warm or cold.
You’ll need:
- Courgette, aubergine, red onion + red pepper
- Olive oil for roasting
- 2 boiled eggs
- Salad leaves
- Tahini or hummus for drizzle
How to:
Roast chopped veg at 200°C for 25 mins. Boil eggs. Layer leaves, roasted veg, halved eggs + tahini. Meal prep perfection.
4. Chicken, Avocado + Sweetcorn Salad (High Protein)
Post-strength training? This one’s your go-to.
You’ll need:
- 1 cooked chicken breast, shredded
- ½ avocado, diced
- ½ cup cooked sweetcorn
- Red onion + cherry tomatoes
- Lettuce or spinach
- Olive oil or yoghurt dressing
How to:
Toss all ingredients together, drizzle dressing, season. Bright, simple, full of the good stuff.
Swap It, Prep It, Love It
These salads are just a starting point. Want to switch things up? Sub in tofu, lentils, boiled eggs, tuna or whatever protein works for your goals. Seasonal veg? Yes please. Busy week? Prep two or three in one go for grab-and-go lunches after your KBPT session.
Trainer Tip: If you’re training regularly (at home, in Hackney’s parks, or online with us), don’t skip your post-workout fuel. A mix of protein, healthy fats and carbs helps you recover and keeps your energy steady.
Want more support with food that fits your lifestyle and training goals? Our East London personal trainers are here for it: from nutrition tips to full fitness plans that work for real life.
Personal training that supports your goals (and your lunchbox).
Get in touch for your FREE consultation: www.kbpersonaltraining.co.uk
