Ultimate Spring Salad

When I think of fresh, clean dining, the first thing that comes to mind is my Ultimate Spring Salad. Imagine sitting outside on a warm spring day, soaking in the sun while savoring each bite of a salad that bursts with seasonal flavors and colors. This isn’t just any salad; it’s a celebration of spring’s bounty, combining crisp vegetables with a zesty dressing that tantalizes your taste buds. I love bringing this dish to gatherings, where it steals the show and leaves everyone asking for the recipe. The vibrant greens, the crunch of fresh vegetables, and the creamy avocado all come together to create a dish that is not only delicious but also visually stunning.

Ultimate Spring Salad Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving the fresh and vibrant flavors of our Ultimate Spring Salad. Each component plays a vital role, working together to create a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. From the crunchy asparagus to the creamy avocado, these ingredients not only taste delicious but also offer a variety of health benefits.

• 1 bunch of asparagus (12 oz. after woody ends removed) – A springtime favorite, asparagus is tender, flavorful, and packed with vitamins A, C, and K.
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil – Adds richness and helps to bring out the flavors of the vegetables.
• Fine sea salt – Essential for seasoning; enhances the natural flavors of each ingredient.
• 5 ounces spring salad mix – A blend of baby greens that provides a fresh, crisp base.
• 1 large carrot, shredded – Adds sweetness and a delightful crunch.
• 3 radishes, trimmed and thinly sliced – Provides a peppery bite and beautiful color contrast.
• 1 (15 oz.) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed – A great source of plant-based protein and fiber.
• 1/3 cup feta cheese crumbles – Offers a creamy texture and salty flavor that balances the salad.
• 1 ripe avocado, pitted, peeled, and sliced – Brings creaminess and healthy fats, making the salad more filling.
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice – The acidity brightens the salad and elevates all the flavors.
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil – Used in the dressing, it contributes to the salad’s overall richness.
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (tightly packed) – Adds a burst of fresh, aromatic flavor.
• 1 tablespoon honey – Balances the acidity of the lemon juice and enhances the dressing’s flavor.
• 1 clove garlic – Infuses the dressing with a subtle, aromatic essence.
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt – Enhances flavor and balances the dressing.
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a hint of warmth to the dressing.

Step by Step Instructions for Ultimate Spring Salad

Creating the Ultimate Spring Salad is as enjoyable as eating it! From roasting the asparagus to whipping up a zesty dressing, each step is straightforward and rewarding. Let’s get started on this delightful journey to salad perfection.

1. First, preheat your oven to 400ºF. This step is crucial because roasting the asparagus at the right temperature will ensure it becomes perfectly tender and retains its vibrant green color.

2. Next, prepare the asparagus by removing the woody ends. Simply bend each spear towards the bottom; they should naturally snap at the point where the tough part ends. Slice the remaining asparagus into 1-inch pieces, making them easy to eat.

3. Now, toss the sliced asparagus on a rimmed baking sheet with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fine sea salt. Make sure each piece is well-coated to enhance the flavor.

4. Roast the asparagus in the oven for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as thinner stalks may cook faster, around 10 minutes. You want them to be tender but still slightly crisp.

5. While the asparagus is roasting, prepare your dressing. In a blender, combine the lemon juice, the remaining extra virgin olive oil, basil, honey, garlic, salt, and ground black pepper. Blend until smooth. Taste it and adjust any seasoning if needed; if you love sweetness, feel free to add more honey.

6. Once the asparagus is roasted, it’s time to assemble the salad. Start with a generous bed of spring salad mix on a large platter. This is your canvas!

7. Next, add the shredded carrots, thinly sliced radishes, and the drained chickpeas on top of the greens. Each ingredient adds not just flavor but texture and color, making the salad visually appealing.

8. Sprinkle the roasted asparagus over the top, adding that smoky flavor to the mix. If you’re using feta cheese, now’s the time to sprinkle it over the salad for that creamy goodness.

9. Slice the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh. Scatter the slices over the salad for a beautiful finish. The creaminess of avocado contrasts nicely with the crunch of the vegetables.

10. Finally, drizzle your freshly made dressing generously over the salad. Gently toss everything together, ensuring all the ingredients are coated in that zesty dressing. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors!

Tips and Variations

Whether you want to modify the Ultimate Spring Salad or just need some helpful tips, I’ve got you covered. Here are some ways you can enhance this delicious recipe.

• Storage: The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for one to two days. Keep the dressing separate to avoid wilting.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze the salad as the textures of the fresh vegetables can become mushy when thawed.
• Pairing: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread for a complete lunch.
• Seasonal Variations: Experiment with seasonal vegetables. In summer, add zucchini or bell peppers; in fall, consider roasted butternut squash.
• Herb Alternatives: If basil isn’t your favorite, try switching it out for fresh cilantro or parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Nutty Addition: Consider adding toasted nuts or seeds for an extra crunch and a boost of healthy fats.

Side Dish Ideas for Ultimate Spring Salad

Serving the Ultimate Spring Salad can be as creative as you want! Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

• Grilled Chicken: Pair this salad with juicy grilled chicken for a protein-packed meal that will satisfy.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread for a comforting addition to your meal.
• Soup: A light soup, like a chilled tomato or a creamy vegetable, complements this salad beautifully during spring.
• Cheese Plate: Create a cheese platter with assorted cheeses, nuts, and fruits for a lovely appetizer spread.
• Picnic Delight: This salad is perfect for picnics! Pack it in containers alongside fresh fruit and beverages.
• Seasonal Fruits: Add seasonal fruits like strawberries or mandarin oranges to the salad for a sweet touch.
• Wraps: Create wraps using the salad ingredients—simply roll them up in a tortilla for a healthy on-the-go option!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Ultimate Spring Salad is special because it beautifully captures the essence of spring with its fresh, colorful ingredients and zesty dressing. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, as it’s a delightful addition to any meal, whether enjoyed alone or as part of a larger spread. It’s quick, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

Ultimate Spring Salad

The ultimate comfort food for spring, the Ultimate Spring Salad is bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. It's an easy weeknight dinner that brings the taste of the season right to your table. Perfect for gatherings or a healthy lunch, you'll want to make this salad again and again!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Salads

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Blender
• Oven
• Peeler
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 1 bunch asparagus Asparagus 1 bunch; 12 oz. after woody ends removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• to taste salt Fine Sea Salt
• 5 ounces spring salad mix Spring Salad Mix (or other baby lettuce)
• 1 large Carrot shredded
• 3 Radishes trimmed and thinly sliced
• 1 can (15 oz.) chickpeas Chickpeas drained and rinsed
• 1/3 cup feta cheese Feta Cheese Crumbles
• 1 ripe Avocado pitted, peeled, and sliced
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice Lemon Juice
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves Fresh Basil Leaves (tightly packed)
• 1 tablespoon Honey
• 1 clove Garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt Fine Sea Salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper Ground Black Pepper

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 400ºF.
• Remove the woody ends from the asparagus by bending the spears towards the bottom; they should snap where the tougher ends should be removed. Slice the asparagus into 1-inch pieces, then place them on a rimmed baking sheet and toss with the extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle the top with fine sea salt, and roast until it's tender, about 15 minutes.
• While the asparagus is cooking, prepare the dressing. In a blender, combine the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, basil, honey, garlic, fine sea salt, and ground black pepper. Blend until smooth, and adjust any seasoning to taste.
• When you're ready to assemble the salad, start with a bed of spring salad mix, and top them with the shredded carrots, sliced radish, drained chickpeas, and roasted asparagus. Sprinkle on the feta cheese (or omit for a dairy-free salad), and add the sliced avocado right before serving.
• Drizzle the dressing generously over the salad, and gently toss. Serve right away.

Notes

• Nutrition Tip: Nutrition information is for 1 of 4 servings, assuming you use ALL of the dressing, which you may not.
• Serving Size: If serving this salad as a side, you may get closer to 6 servings, if people take smaller portions.
• Vegan Variation: Replace the honey with maple syrup and omit the feta cheese for a delicious vegan option.
• Creamy Dressing: To make it creamy, add a tablespoon of tahini or almond butter to the dressing.

Keyword Fresh Salad Recipe, Healthy Salad, Spring Salad, Vegetarian Salad

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Meet Camila Rivera

I’m Camila, and I believe the very best meals are the ones that bring the whole family together. My passion is taking classic, beloved dishes and adding a spicy or zesty twist to wake up your palate. I have cooked, tweaked, and taste-tested this recipe right here in my own home kitchen to ensure it works perfectly for you. I hope you enjoy every single bite let me know how it turns out!