As the last wisps of winter’s chill dissipate, our palates are primed for a burst of bright flavors and textures that signal the arrival of spring. And what better way to celebrate than with a vibrant, refreshing salad that showcases the season’s best produce? From sweet strawberries to tangy citrus, we’ve curated 20 stunning spring mix salad recipes that will have you trading in your winter warmers for a lighter, brighter approach to mealtime.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the flavors and ingredients of the season, highlighting a range of creative combinations that are sure to delight. Whether you’re a fan of classic pairings or bold experimentation, our collection has something for everyone. So grab your favorite spring mix greens and get ready to shake off those winter blues with these 20 refreshing spring mix salad recipes!
Strawberry Balsamic Spring Mix Salad
Brighten up your spring with this refreshing salad featuring sweet strawberries, tangy balsamic glaze, and a medley of crisp greens.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed baby greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens.
2. Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the greens.
3. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese (if using) over the strawberries.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad, then sprinkle chopped nuts on top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in minutes.
Avocado and Citrus Spring Mix Salad
Spring has sprung! Celebrate the season with a refreshing salad that combines creamy avocado, tangy citrus, and crunchy greens.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup mixed spring greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, red bell pepper, and mint leaves.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice and salt to make the dressing.
3. Add the diced avocado to the bowl with the dressing and toss gently to combine.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until the greens are evenly coated.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Grilled Peach and Goat Cheese Spring Mix Salad
This sweet and savory salad combines the flavors of grilled peaches, creamy goat cheese, and fresh spring greens, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 4 cups mixed spring greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush peach slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized.
3. In a large bowl, combine spring greens, grilled peaches, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped nuts.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pomegranate and Walnut Spring Mix Salad
As the seasons change, refresh your palate with this vibrant and nutritious salad, featuring the sweetness of pomegranate and the earthiness of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup diced fresh pomegranate
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens.
2. Top the greens with the diced pomegranate, chopped walnuts, and crumbled feta cheese.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Asian Sesame Spring Mix Salad
A refreshing and light spring salad that combines the crunch of sesame seeds with the sweetness of Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cooked edamame
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, edamame, red bell pepper, cucumber, and scallions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top of the salad and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Blueberry and Feta Spring Mix Salad
A refreshing spring salad that combines the sweetness of blueberries with the tanginess of feta cheese, perfect for a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, blueberries, and feta cheese.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
3. Squeeze the white wine vinegar over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Roasted Beet and Arugula Spring Mix Salad
A vibrant and flavorful salad perfect for the spring season, featuring roasted beets, peppery arugula, and a tangy vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1 bunch of arugula
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, roasted beet wedges, and a drizzle of olive oil.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar and honey.
6. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herb-Lemon Chicken Spring Mix Salad
A refreshing springtime salad that combines the bright flavors of lemon and herbs with juicy chicken and crisp greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed spring greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Place chicken breast in a shallow baking dish and brush the herb-lemon mixture evenly over both sides.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.
7. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the salad.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa and Chickpea Spring Mix Salad
A refreshing spring-inspired salad that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a vibrant mix of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, mixed greens, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with feta cheese.
3. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (cooking time for quinoa is not included)
Citrus Shrimp Spring Mix Salad
Brighten up your spring with this refreshing Citrus Shrimp Spring Mix Salad, perfect for a light and flavorful lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove from heat and stir in orange and grapefruit juices. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell pepper, feta cheese, and cilantro.
5. Add the cooked shrimp mixture on top of the salad and toss gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Warm Bacon and Egg Spring Mix Salad
Start your day off right with this hearty and delicious salad that combines the richness of bacon, the creaminess of eggs, and the freshness of spring greens.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed baby greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
3. In a separate pan, scramble the eggs and set aside.
4. Toss the mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and feta cheese.
5. Add the cooked bacon and scrambled eggs on top of the greens mixture.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Greek Orzo Spring Mix Salad
Experience the freshness of spring with this vibrant salad that combines the flavors of Greece and Italy. A perfect side dish for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
• 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, feta cheese, mint leaves, parsley leaves, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
3. Add cooked orzo pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Apple and Candied Pecan Spring Mix Salad
A refreshing mix of sweet and tangy flavors, this salad is perfect for springtime gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 large apple, diced
– 1/2 cup candied pecans, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard.
3. Add diced apple and chopped pecans to the bowl with the honey mixture; toss to coat.
4. Top the mixed greens with the apple-pecan mixture and crumbled feta cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mediterranean Tuna Spring Mix Salad
Brighten up your plate with this refreshing Mediterranean-inspired tuna salad, perfect for springtime gatherings or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
• 4 cups mixed greens (spring mix)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber slices
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and Kalamata olives.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the flaked tuna, olive oil, and lemon juice.
3. Add the tuna mixture to the salad bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Roasted Sweet Potato and Kale Spring Mix Salad
A vibrant and nutritious salad perfect for the spring season, featuring roasted sweet potatoes and crispy kale.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup spring mix greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
– Chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large bowl, massage kale leaves with 1 tablespoon olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey until crispy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a separate bowl, combine roasted sweet potatoes, spring mix greens, and crumbled goat cheese (if using).
4. Top the salad with massaged kale leaves and garnish with chopped nuts (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serve: Immediately, as the kale will start to wilt.
Spicy Mango and Black Bean Spring Mix Salad
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of mango with the spiciness of black beans, all wrapped up in a refreshing spring mix. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, black beans, mango, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice; toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with crumbled cheese (if using).
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Grilled Corn and Avocado Spring Mix Salad
Brighten up your spring with this refreshing salad featuring grilled corn, creamy avocado, and a mix of fresh greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed spring greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 2 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn ears for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until slightly charred.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced avocado, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
4. Once corn is cooked, let it cool slightly before slicing into rounds.
5. Add sliced grilled corn to the salad bowl and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Mozzarella Spring Mix Salad
A refreshing blend of flavors and textures, this salad is perfect for springtime gatherings or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens.
2. Arrange cherry tomatoes and basil leaves on top of the greens.
3. Place mozzarella cheese slices around the salad.
4. Drizzle olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad, lightly tossing to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lemon Garlic Salmon Spring Mix Salad
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this vibrant salad featuring succulent salmon, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked salmon fillet (poached or grilled)
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens.
2. Top the greens with cooked salmon fillet, breaking it into bite-sized pieces if needed.
3. Whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top of the salad.
Cooking Time: None (salmon is cooked separately)
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Thai Peanut Spring Mix Salad
Brighten up your plate with this refreshing Thai-inspired salad, featuring a tangy and creamy peanut dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed spring greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 1/4 cup Thai-style peanut dressing (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Peanut Dressing:
– 2 tablespoons creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chicken breast, and red bell pepper.
2. Drizzle the peanut dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle chopped peanuts and garnish with cilantro leaves.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to welcome spring with these refreshing mix salad recipes! From sweet and tangy combinations like Strawberry Balsamic and Blueberry Feta, to savory and protein-packed options like Herb-Lemon Chicken and Mediterranean Tuna, there’s something for everyone. Other standout salads include Grilled Peach and Goat Cheese, Pomegranate and Walnut, and Spicy Mango and Black Bean. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, these spring mix salad recipes are sure to bring the flavors of the season to your plate.
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