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Spring Mix Salad with Balsamic Honey Dressing Recipe

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3.9 from 10 reviews

A vibrant Spring Mix Salad featuring tender greens, fresh berries, crunchy toasted nuts, and tangy crumbled cheese, all tossed in a perfectly balanced balsamic honey dressing. This refreshing salad combines layers of flavors and textures for a healthy, heart-friendly dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any season.

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 6 packed cups spring mix greens (baby spinach, arugula, baby chard, baby lettuces)
  • 1 cup fresh berries or sliced fruit (strawberries, blueberries, pears, or apples)
  • 1/3 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1/2 cup toasted nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
  • 1/3 cup crumbled cheese (goat cheese, feta, or shaved parmesan)

For the Balsamic Honey Dressing

  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 small garlic clove, very finely minced or grated
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients: Rinse and dry the spring mix greens thoroughly. Thinly slice the red onion, toast the nuts lightly in a dry skillet until fragrant, and either crumble or shave your choice of cheese. Wash and prepare the fresh berries or slice the fruit of choice.
  2. Make the Balsamic Honey Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing emulsifies. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, adjusting taste as needed.
  3. Toss the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the spring mix greens, fresh berries or sliced fruit, thinly sliced red onion, and toasted nuts. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  4. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled or shaved cheese on top of the dressed salad. Give it a light toss just to combine without breaking up the cheese too much.
  5. Serve Immediately: Serve the salad fresh, ensuring the greens remain crisp and the flavors vibrant. This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a light standalone meal.

Notes

  • Use fresh and seasonal berries or fruit for the best flavor integration.
  • Toast nuts lightly to enhance their crunch and flavor but avoid burning.
  • The dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, just whisk before using.
  • Adjust sweetness or acidity in the dressing according to personal preference by tweaking honey or vinegar quantities slightly.
  • This salad is best served immediately after dressing to maintain crispness of greens.