This vibrant spring mix salad is one of my favorite fresh recipes because it’s colorful, flavorful, and ready in just 10 minutes. With juicy sweet cherries, creamy feta, crunchy cucumbers, walnuts, and a simple tangy vinaigrette, it’s a refreshing salad that I enjoy as a light meal or as a bright side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this salad because it’s quick to put together and makes the most of fresh, seasonal ingredients. The sweet cherries pair beautifully with salty feta, while the walnuts and cucumbers give it a satisfying crunch. I also like that it’s versatile—I can serve it as a side, enjoy it as a vegetarian main, or top it with grilled chicken or salmon for extra protein.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Spring lettuce mix
- Cucumbers, sliced and chopped
- Sweet cherries, pitted and halved
- Blueberries
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Walnuts, chopped
- Dijon mustard
- Apple cider vinegar
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt and black pepper
Directions
- I add the spring mix, cucumbers, cherries, blueberries, feta, and walnuts to a large bowl and toss gently.
- In a small bowl, I whisk together Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil, then season with salt and black pepper.
- I drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss lightly again to coat everything evenly.
- I serve the salad right away while it’s fresh and crisp.
Servings and timing
This salad makes about 4 servings. Prep time takes only 10 minutes, and since it’s a no-cook recipe, it’s ready to eat immediately.
Variations
I sometimes swap feta for goat cheese to make the salad creamier. For a nutty variation, I like using pecans or almonds instead of walnuts. Fresh mint or basil adds a refreshing herbal note, and when cherries are out of season, I switch them with strawberries or peaches. If I want to make it more filling, I top it with grilled chicken or salmon.
Storage/Reheating
I keep the salad undressed in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If it’s already dressed, I eat it the same day since the greens soften quickly. I don’t reheat this salad—it’s best served cold and crisp.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, I often prep the greens, fruit, and nuts ahead of time and store them separately. I only add the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh.
What other fruits work well in this salad?
I like using strawberries, peaches, or even grapes when cherries aren’t in season. They all add a nice sweetness that pairs well with the feta.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, I replace the feta with a dairy-free cheese alternative or leave it out entirely. The salad is still delicious without it.
What protein pairs best with this salad?
I enjoy topping it with grilled chicken, salmon, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
How do I keep cherries fresh after pitting them?
I pit and halve the cherries just before making the salad, but if I need to prep ahead, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day.
Conclusion
This spring mix salad with cherries and feta is a dish I love for its simplicity, freshness, and versatility. Whether I’m serving it as a side for a summer cookout or enjoying it as a light meal, it always feels vibrant, flavorful, and satisfying.
