15 Spring Salad Recipes To Welcome Warmer Days

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your meals, and these 15 salad recipes showcase the vibrant, fresh flavors of the season. With an array of greens, vegetables, grains, and zesty dressings, you’ll find plenty of ways to elevate your salads, whether you prefer a hearty grain base or a light, leafy option. From tangy citrus dressings to the crunch of seasonal veggies, each recipe is designed to make your cooking experience enjoyable while celebrating the essence of spring on your plate.

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad

This Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad is a delightful mix of earthy and tangy flavors. The sweetness of the roasted beets pairs perfectly with the creamy goat cheese, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

It’s simple to make, making it a great choice for a quick lunch or a light dinner. Just a few ingredients come together to create a beautiful salad that’s perfect for welcoming warmer days.

Ingredients

• 4 medium-sized beets
• 4 cups mixed greens
• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap each beet in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
2. Once cooked, let the beets cool slightly, then peel and slice them.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced beets, and walnuts.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the salad and toss gently.
5. Top with crumbled goat cheese before serving.

Herbed Lentil Salad with Cherry Tomatoes

This herbed lentil salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for welcoming the warmer days of spring. The earthy lentils pair beautifully with juicy cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

Making this salad is a breeze! With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a nutritious meal that’s great for lunch or as a side dish at dinner. It’s light, yet filling, making it a fantastic choice for those sunny afternoons.

Ingredients

• 1 cup green or brown lentils
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain. In a medium pot, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender. Drain any excess water.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving. Enjoy!

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with Feta and Olives

This Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring. With its mix of chickpeas, juicy tomatoes, tangy feta, and briny olives, it offers a delightful burst of flavors in every bite. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it a great choice for a quick lunch or a light dinner.

The combination of textures—from the crunch of the veggies to the creaminess of the feta—makes this salad not only tasty but also satisfying. Toss in some fresh herbs, drizzle with olive oil, and you have a dish that’s both healthy and delicious!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, red onion, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy!

Citrus Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

This Citrus Avocado Spinach Salad is a refreshing dish perfect for welcoming the warmer days of spring. With creamy avocado slices, juicy citrus segments, and a light poppy seed dressing, it offers a delightful balance of flavors. The combination of sweet and tangy notes makes every bite enjoyable, while the spinach adds a nutritious touch.

Making this salad is a breeze! It requires minimal prep time and is great for a quick lunch or as a side for dinner. Just toss the ingredients together, drizzle with the dressing, and you’re ready to dig in!

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 2 cups citrus segments (such as mandarin oranges or grapefruit)
• 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, avocado slices, and citrus segments.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing salad!

Watermelon and Feta Salad with Mint

Watermelon and Feta Salad with Mint is a refreshing treat that perfectly captures the essence of spring. The sweet, juicy watermelon pairs beautifully with the salty feta cheese, while fresh mint adds a burst of flavor. This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for any warm day.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a vibrant dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch. The combination of textures and flavors will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients

• 4 cups watermelon, cubed
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, crumbled feta, and chopped mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving for a cooler experience.

Strawberry Feta Salad with Balsamic Glaze

This Strawberry Feta Salad is a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for welcoming the warmer days of spring. The juicy strawberries pair beautifully with creamy feta cheese, while the balsamic glaze adds a tangy finish that ties everything together. It’s a simple recipe that comes together quickly, making it ideal for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish at your next gathering.

With fresh ingredients and vibrant colors, this salad not only tastes great but looks stunning on any table. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal produce and impress your friends and family with minimal effort!

Ingredients

• 4 cups mixed greens
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
• 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Start by washing the mixed greens thoroughly and patting them dry. Place them in a large salad bowl.
2. Add the sliced strawberries on top of the greens, followed by the crumbled feta cheese.
3. If using, sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the salad for added crunch.
4. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients, and serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad

This Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The nutty quinoa pairs perfectly with the sweetness of roasted vegetables, making it a satisfying dish for any meal. It’s light yet filling, perfect for those warmer days when you want something fresh and healthy.

Making this salad is a breeze! Simply roast your favorite veggies, cook the quinoa, and toss everything together with a zesty dressing. It’s a simple recipe that’s sure to impress at any gathering or just for a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, toss the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on the baking sheet.
3. Roast the vegetables for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. While the vegetables are roasting, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Once the quinoa and vegetables are done, combine them in a large bowl. Add chopped parsley and lemon juice, mixing well to combine.
6. Serve warm or chilled, and enjoy your refreshing salad!

Asparagus and Pea Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This Asparagus and Pea Salad is a delightful way to celebrate spring. The fresh, crisp asparagus pairs perfectly with sweet peas, creating a vibrant dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The lemon vinaigrette adds a zesty kick, making each bite burst with flavor.

Simple to prepare, this salad is perfect for a quick lunch or as a side for dinner. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking, you can have a beautiful and tasty salad ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Blanch the Asparagus: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook for about 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Remove and immediately place in ice water to stop cooking.
2. Cook the Peas: If using fresh peas, add them to the boiling water for the last minute of cooking. If using frozen peas, simply thaw them under warm water.
3. Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Assemble the Salad: Drain the asparagus and peas. In a large bowl, combine them and drizzle with the lemon vinaigrette. Toss gently to coat.
5. Serve: Plate the salad and garnish with lemon wedges. Enjoy your fresh and tasty Asparagus and Pea Salad!

Spinach and Radish Salad with Sesame Dressing

This Spinach and Radish Salad is a refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring. The crisp radishes add a peppery crunch, while the tender spinach provides a mild, earthy base. Tossed in a nutty sesame dressing, this salad is both simple to make and bursting with flavor.

Ideal for a light lunch or as a side dish, this salad can be whipped up in no time. It’s a great way to enjoy fresh ingredients and is sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
• 1 cup radishes, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey until well combined.
2. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the spinach and radishes. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
3. Finish with Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture!

Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Dill

This Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Dill is a refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring. The crispness of the cucumbers pairs beautifully with the juicy tomatoes, while the dill adds a bright, herbaceous note that elevates the flavors. It’s a simple recipe that comes together in no time, making it a great choice for a quick lunch or a side dish at dinner.

Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny day or serving it at a gathering, this salad is sure to impress. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a vibrant dish that celebrates the season. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped dill.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your fresh and tasty salad!

Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad

This Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad is a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for welcoming warmer days. The juicy grilled peaches add a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with the peppery arugula, creating a refreshing dish that’s simple to whip up.

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this salad is ideal for a quick lunch or a light dinner. Toss in some nuts or cheese for extra texture, and you’ve got a dish that’s not only tasty but also visually stunning!

Ingredients

• 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
• 6 cups arugula
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat. Lightly brush the peach halves with olive oil.
2. Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes, until grill marks appear and the peaches are slightly softened.
3. In a large bowl, combine arugula, grilled peaches, feta cheese, and walnuts.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately, enjoying the fresh flavors of spring!

Thai Mango Salad with Spicy Peanut Dressing

This Thai Mango Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring. With its sweet mango, crunchy carrots, and a kick from the spicy peanut dressing, it’s a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a great choice for a quick lunch or a side dish at your next gathering.

The combination of fresh ingredients and zesty dressing creates a salad that’s not only tasty but also visually appealing. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal produce while adding a little excitement to your meal. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, and it’s sure to impress your friends and family!

Ingredients

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and julienned
• 1 cup carrots, shredded
• 1 cucumber, julienned
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped

Spicy Peanut Dressing

• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons water (to thin, if needed)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the mango, carrots, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and chili paste until smooth. If the dressing is too thick, add water a little at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Top with chopped peanuts before serving. Enjoy your refreshing Thai Mango Salad!

Avocado and Grapefruit Salad with Cilantro

This Avocado and Grapefruit Salad is a refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the tartness of grapefruit, creating a delightful contrast that dances on your palate. With a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, this salad is not only vibrant but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for any spring gathering.

Simple to prepare, this salad can be thrown together in just a few minutes. It’s light, healthy, and bursting with flavor, making it a great choice for lunch or as a side dish at dinner. Enjoy the bright colors and fresh tastes that welcome the warmer days!

Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados, sliced
• 1 large grapefruit, segmented
• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Greens: In a large bowl, place the mixed greens as the base of your salad.
2. Add the Avocado: Arrange the sliced avocados on top of the greens.
3. Top with Grapefruit: Scatter the grapefruit segments over the avocado.
4. Finish with Cilantro: Sprinkle the chopped cilantro on top for added freshness.
5. Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.

Zucchini Noodle Salad with Pesto

This Zucchini Noodle Salad with Pesto is a fresh and vibrant dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring. The spiralized zucchini noodles are light and crunchy, making them a delightful base for the rich, herbaceous pesto. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and feta cheese for a burst of flavor and texture. It’s a simple recipe that comes together in no time, making it ideal for a quick lunch or a side dish at dinner.

The combination of flavors is refreshing and satisfying, with the pesto adding a creamy touch without being heavy. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying a delicious meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this salad is easy to whip up and sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini: Use a spiralizer to turn the zucchinis into noodles. Place them in a large bowl.
2. Add the Veggies: Toss in the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese with the zucchini noodles.
3. Mix with Pesto: Drizzle the pesto over the salad and gently toss everything together until well coated.
4. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, and drizzle with a little olive oil for extra flavor.
5. Serve: Enjoy immediately or let it chill in the fridge for a bit to enhance the flavors.

Carrot and Raisin Salad with Honey Dressing

This Carrot and Raisin Salad is a delightful mix of crunchy carrots and sweet raisins, all brought together with a light honey dressing. It’s refreshing, vibrant, and perfect for those warmer days when you want something simple yet satisfying.

Making this salad is a breeze! Just shred some carrots, toss in raisins, and drizzle with a honey dressing. It’s a quick recipe that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition, making it a great addition to any spring meal.

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded carrots
• 1 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded carrots and raisins.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, salt, and cinnamon until smooth.
3. Pour the honey dressing over the carrot and raisin mixture, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!