Easy Spring Mix Salad for a Refreshing Meal

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Spring mix salad is the perfect way to celebrate fresh flavors and vibrant colors. This light and crunchy dish bursts with garden-fresh ingredients that make it a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just want a quick and nutritious side, this salad is both simple and satisfying, ready in just a few minutes.

Ingredients

Fresh Ingredients for a Perfect Spring Mix Salad

5 ounces Spring Mix Salad
½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
⅓ cup walnuts, roughly chopped

Essential Dressing Components

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

Preparing the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the spring mix, sliced red onion, halved tomatoes, half of the feta cheese, and half of the walnuts. Toss to mix well, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Making the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is thick and emulsified. This homemade dressing adds a creamy, tangy touch to the salad.

Delicious spring mix salad with fresh ingredients including feta and walnuts.

Combining and Serving the Salad

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and sprinkle with the remaining feta cheese and walnuts for an extra pop of flavor and texture. Serve immediately for the best experience!

Variations and Substitutions

Alternative Ingredients for Customization

Feel free to get creative with your spring mix salad! Substitute red wine vinegar with balsamic vinegar, white wine vinegar, or even lemon juice for a different twist. You can replace walnuts with pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or pecans. If feta isn’t your favorite, goat cheese or blue cheese makes delightful alternatives.

Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor

Consider adding baby spinach and arugula instead of spring mix, or stir in optional ingredients like creamy avocado, fresh herbs, or additional colorful vegetables for even more flavor.

Storage Tips

How to Keep Your Salad Fresh

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Remember to keep the dressing separately to prevent wilting.

Storing Dressing Separately

For optimal taste and texture, always store your dressing in a separate container. This way, when you’re ready to enjoy your salad again, it will be fresh and crisp!

Vibrant spring mix salad with fresh ingredients and feta cheese.

Recommended Tools

Kitchen Essentials for Salad Preparation

For easy preparation, a large metal mixing bowl and tongs are invaluable. They help you mix the ingredients thoroughly without bruising the delicate greens.

Helpful Tips for Efficient Mixing

When mixing salads, use a gentle tossing motion to keep your ingredients intact. This helps maintain the beautiful presentation of your spring mix salad.

FAQs

Can I use other types of greens instead of spring mix?

Yes, you can substitute spring mix with baby spinach, arugula, or even kale for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or swap it for a plant-based alternative.

What is the best way to chop vegetables for this salad?

Chop vegetables into bite-sized pieces to ensure they blend well and are easy to eat.

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Conclusion

This easy spring mix salad is not only refreshing but also versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Remember to check out more inspiration on Pinterest for additional ideas and twists on your favorite salads. Enjoy this delightful dish today and bring a burst of spring to your table!