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Spring Mix Salad with Balsamic Lemon Dressing and Nuts Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 51 reviews
  • Author: Aiko
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant and refreshing Spring Mix Salad featuring crisp vegetables, tangy balsamic-lemon dressing, crunchy seeds, and creamy goat cheese. Perfect for a quick, healthy, and flavorful side or light meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Salad

  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 package (5 oz) spring mix
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium cucumber, peeled and sliced
  • 2-3 small radishes, sliced
  • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, or sliced almonds
  • 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together while slowly streaming in the extra virgin olive oil until the dressing is fully emulsified and smooth.
  2. Soften the Red Onion: Place the thinly sliced red onion into hot tap water for a few minutes to mellow its sharpness, then drain thoroughly before adding to the salad.
  3. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the spring mix, halved cherry tomatoes, peeled and sliced cucumber, sliced radishes, and the prepared red onion. Gently toss to mix all the vegetables evenly.
  4. Add the Dressing: Drizzle the emulsified dressing over the combined salad and toss gently once again to coat all ingredients without bruising the greens.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, or sliced almonds evenly over the salad. Top with crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and textures.

Notes

  • Soaking red onion in hot water reduces its pungency and adds a milder flavor to the salad.
  • You can customize the seeds and cheese based on your preference or dietary needs.
  • This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 day in the refrigerator without dressing.
  • For a vegan option, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.