Berry & Citrus Spring Salad with Honey-Lemon Dressing – A Light and Refreshing Springtime Delight
Experience the essence of spring with this Berry & Citrus Spring Salad—juicy berries, bright citrus, crunchy greens, nuts, creamy feta, all drizzled with a sweet honey-lemon dressing. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or as a colorful side, it’s a visually stunning, nutrient-rich dish that balances sweet, tangy, and crisp flavors.
Berry & Citrus Spring Salad with Honey-Lemon Dressing | Fresh Spring Mix Salad Ideas for a Vibrant Seasonal Dish
DifficultyEasy
Servings4-6
Prep time10 minutes
Total time10 minutes
Ingredients
For the Spring Salad:
- 4 cups spring salad mix (
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup blueberries 1 small orange, peeled and segmented
- 1 small orange, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup pecans or toasted almonds, (candied if you'd like)
For the Honey-Lemon Dressing:
- 3 tbsps 3 tablespoons
- 2 tbsps fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsps honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Let's Get Cooking!
Instructions:
- 1
Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
- Set aside while you assemble the salad.
- 2
Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, add the spring salad mix.
- Layer on sliced strawberries, blueberries, and orange segments.
- Sprinkle with crumbled feta or goat cheese and candied pecans.
- 3
Dress and Serve
- Drizzle the honey-lemon dressing over the salad just before serving.
- Toss gently to combine, ensuring the dressing coats all ingredients evenly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Recipe Notes and Variations:
Recipe Notes for the Best Spring Salad
How to Keep Your Spring Salad Fresh and Crisp
- Use Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients: The best spring salad mix uses fresh, vibrant greens and ripe, juicy berries. Look for firm strawberries, plump blueberries, and bright citrus for maximum flavor.
- Dry Greens Thoroughly: After washing, pat dry or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture—this prevents sogginess.
- Add Dressing Right Before Serving: The honey-lemon dressing can wilt greens if added too early. Toss the salad just before serving to keep it crisp.
Choosing the Best Greens for This Spring Mix Salad
- Baby Spinach & Arugula: A mix of tender spinach and slightly peppery arugula adds depth to the salad.
- Butter Lettuce: Offers a soft, delicate texture that pairs beautifully with berries.
- Romaine or Mixed Greens: Adds a mild, refreshing crunch.
- Spring Mix Salad Blend: Store-bought spring salad mix is a great time-saving option.
How to Balance the Sweetness in This Salad
- The natural sweetness of berries and honey pairs well with the citrusy tang of oranges and lemon juice.
- Adding a creamy element like goat cheese or feta helps balance the acidity of the dressing.
- A touch of Dijon mustard in the dressing brings a slight kick that complements the fruit.
Variations of Berry & Citrus Spring Salad
1. Protein-Boosted Spring Salad
✔ Grilled Chicken & Berry Salad:
- Add sliced grilled chicken breast for a protein-packed meal.
✔ Salmon & Spring Mix Salad:
- Top the salad with grilled or smoked salmon for a savory, omega-3-rich option.
✔ Tofu or Chickpea Spring Salad (Vegetarian):
- For a plant-based version, add crispy tofu, roasted chickpeas, or quinoa for extra protein.
2. Spring Mix Salad Dressing Variations
✔ Balsamic Berry Dressing:
- Swap the honey-lemon dressing for balsamic vinaigrette with a touch of mashed fresh berries for a fruity depth.
✔ Citrus Poppy Seed Dressing:
- Add 1 teaspoon poppy seeds to the honey-lemon dressing for a refreshing, textured variation.
✔ Greek Yogurt Citrus Dressing:
- Mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice, honey, and a touch of olive oil for a creamy, tangy alternative.
3. Topping & Ingredient Variations
✔ Nuts & Seeds:
- Toasted almonds, pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds add extra crunch.
✔ Dried Fruits:
- Swap fresh berries for dried cranberries or apricots for a chewier texture.
✔ Cheese Options:
- Feta, goat cheese, blue cheese, or shaved Parmesan all work well in this salad.
✔ Swap Berries for Seasonal Fruit:
- Instead of strawberries and blueberries, use raspberries, blackberries, pomegranate seeds, or thinly sliced pears.
4. Serving Ideas & Pairings
✔ Brunch Pairings:
- Serve alongside quiche, scrambled eggs, or smoked salmon toast for a spring brunch menu.
✔ Dinner Pairings:
- Pairs well with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or pan-seared salmon for an elegant meal.
✔ Refreshing Drinks to Serve with This Salad:
- Iced Green Tea with Lemon & Mint
- Homemade Berry Lemonade
- A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
5. Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
✔ Make the Dressing in Advance:
- The honey-lemon dressing can be made up to 1 week ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
✔ Prepping the Salad Ahead:
- Wash and chop fruit ahead of time and store separately.
- Assemble salad without dressing and store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
✔ How to Store Leftovers:
- Dressed salad should be eaten immediately, as the greens will wilt.
- Undressed salad can be stored for up to 2 days and refreshed with dressing before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Spring Salad Recipe
✔ Bright, Fresh, and Full of Flavor: The combination of fresh fruit, crunchy greens, and a light citrus dressing makes this a vibrant, healthy dish.
✔ Easy to Make in Minutes: A spring salad recipe quick and easy, perfect for busy mornings or last-minute meals.
✔ Customizable for Any Occasion: Works as a light main dish, a brunch centerpiece, or a side for dinner.
✔ Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, making it a nutrient-dense meal option.
This Berry & Citrus Spring Salad with Honey-Lemon Dressing is a bright, refreshing salad perfect for spring and summer. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a side for dinner, or part of a brunch spread, this spring mix salad recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for fresh, delicious, and healthy meal ideas!
Nutrition
| Calories | 240 |
| Carbohydrates | 21g |
| Cholesterol | 12mg |
| Fat | 16g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Sugar | 14g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 10g |
History, Evolution, and Inspiration Behind Spring Salads
The Origins of Seasonal Spring Salads
Salads have been an essential part of cuisine across cultures for centuries, with their origins tracing back to ancient Rome and Greece, where fresh vegetables were enjoyed with simple oil and vinegar dressings. Over time, as seasonal produce became more accessible, salads evolved into artful, colorful dishes that reflect the flavors of each season.
A spring salad mix typically includes young, tender greens like arugula, baby spinach, romaine, and butter lettuce, as they are freshest and most flavorful in the spring months. The addition of berries and citrus fruits enhances the light, delicate flavors of spring greens, making this salad a celebration of the season’s best produce.
In recent years, spring mix salad ideas have gained popularity in farm-to-table restaurants and health-conscious kitchens, where using fresh, local ingredients is a priority. This Berry & Citrus Spring Salad is a modern take on a classic spring green salad, combining seasonal fruit, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese for a truly delightful dish.
The Art of Assembling the Perfect Spring Mix Salad
Why This Spring Salad Works So Well
✔ A Mix of Crisp and Tender Greens: Using a variety of spring greens like arugula, spinach, and butter lettuce adds both crunch and tenderness.
✔ Sweet and Tangy Fruit Additions: Strawberries, blueberries, and orange segments bring natural sweetness and a bright, citrusy contrast.
✔ A Nutty Crunch: The addition of candied pecans or toasted almonds adds a delicious crunch and nutty depth.
✔ Creamy and Savory Balance: Crumbled feta or goat cheese provides a rich, tangy contrast to the sweet fruit and honey-lemon dressing.
✔ A Refreshing and Light Dressing: The honey-lemon vinaigrette ties everything together, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.
Interesting Things About This Spring Salad Recipe
- It’s a Celebration of Seasonal Ingredients: Using fresh, in-season fruits and greens ensures the best flavor and texture.
- It’s Versatile and Customizable: You can swap ingredients, adjust the dressing, or add proteins to make it a complete meal.
- It’s Quick and Easy: With only a few simple steps, this spring mix salad recipe is ready in minutes.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad stores well and can be prepped ahead, making it great for busy schedules.
An Overview of the Recipe Components
This spring salad recipe consists of three key elements:
- The Spring Salad Base: A mix of spring greens like arugula, spinach, and butter lettuce, providing a light and crisp foundation.
- The Fruit and Nut Toppings: A blend of fresh berries, citrus slices, crunchy pecans, and crumbled cheese for layers of flavor and texture.
- The Honey-Lemon Dressing: A simple vinaigrette made with honey, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and Dijon mustard for the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
What Occasions Is This Spring Salad Perfect For?
✔ Spring and Summer Gatherings: A perfect side dish for Easter brunch, baby showers, and outdoor picnics.
✔ Lunch or Light Dinner: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein-packed meal.
✔ Elegant Side Dish: Pairs well with grilled salmon, roasted chicken, or even pasta dishes.
✔ Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and store in the fridge for a quick, healthy meal anytime.
