Spring Salad

Celebrate the fresh flavors of the season with this vibrant Spring Salad. It’s a colorful mix of tender greens, crisp vegetables, creamy avocado, and a zesty herb dressing that captures the essence of springtime. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish or a light main course, this salad delivers bright, satisfying flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal ingredients bring maximum flavor and nutrition
• Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy days
• Light yet satisfying, ideal for warm weather meals
• Completely customizable to suit any dietary needs
• Great for entertaining or meal prepping

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• ½ cup frozen peas, thawed
• A few handfuls mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, or butter lettuce)
• 2 radishes, thinly sliced
• ½ avocado, diced
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup toasted pistachios, chopped
• ½ cup roasted chickpeas
• Fresh herbs for garnish (basil, mint, chives)
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the dressing:

• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves (or a mix of basil and mint)
• 1 small garlic clove
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt

directions

this recipe

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and prepare a bowl of ice water. Blanch asparagus for about 1 minute, then transfer to the ice water to stop cooking. Drain and pat dry.
2. In a food processor, blend basil, garlic, lemon juice, zest, vinegar, olive oil, and salt to make the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
3. In a large salad bowl, combine greens, radishes, avocado, feta, pistachios, and chickpeas.
4. Add the blanched asparagus and peas.
5. Drizzle with the herb dressing and gently toss to coat.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Use goat cheese or shaved Parmesan instead of feta
• Substitute pistachios with almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds
• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein
• Include spring fruits like strawberries or orange segments for sweetness
• Use different greens such as romaine, mesclun, or kale

storage/reheating

• Store salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days
• Keep the dressing in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Avoid storing tossed salad as greens will wilt quickly
• Best enjoyed cold; do not reheat

FAQs

What makes this salad perfect for spring?

It uses fresh, in-season vegetables like asparagus, peas, and radishes that are at their peak in spring.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Is it okay to prepare this salad in advance?

You can prep all the ingredients ahead of time and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.

Can I use a different dressing?

Absolutely. A lemon vinaigrette or green goddess dressing would also pair well.

What proteins can I add to make this more filling?

Grilled chicken, tofu, shrimp, or even quinoa are great protein options.

Can I use canned or fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, both are suitable. Just make sure they are cooked and cooled before adding.

How do I make this nut-free?

Replace pistachios with toasted seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

Will the avocado turn brown?

Avocado will brown over time, so it’s best added just before serving.

What can I use instead of chickpeas?

Try lentils, white beans, or edamame for variety.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Spring Salad is a delicious and nutritious way to celebrate the season’s best produce. With its mix of textures and bright flavors, it’s sure to become a staple in your warm-weather recipe rotation. Quick to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s the perfect dish for lunch, dinner, or your next gathering. Enjoy the taste of spring in every bite.

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