Pin it
This hearty spring salad celebrates the season with vibrant flavors and textures that make it a showstopper for any gathering. The combination of crisp vegetables, creamy avocado, and tangy cheese creates a perfect balance that keeps everyone coming back for more.
I first made this salad for an Easter brunch last year, and it's become my go-to recipe whenever I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The bright lemon basil vinaigrette transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
Ingredients
- Spring green mix: Forms the perfect tender base for this salad
- Butter lettuce: Adds a delicate sweetness and beautiful texture
- Thin asparagus pieces: Provide crunch and freshness without needing to be blanched first
- Sugar snap peas: Contribute a satisfying crunch and natural sweetness
- Petite peas: Bring bright color and a pop of flavor in every bite
- Radishes: Add a peppery bite that balances the sweeter elements
- Green onions: Provide a mild allium flavor without overpowering
- Avocado: Delivers creamy richness that makes the salad more substantial
- Crispy bacon: Brings savory depth and makes the salad irresistible
- Sunflower seeds and sliced almonds: Contribute essential crunch and nuttiness
- Goat cheese: Adds tangy creaminess that ties everything together
- Fresh basil: In the dressing provides aromatic herbal notes essential to the spring flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the dressing:
- Combine fresh basil leaves, lemon juice, green onion, garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and olive oil in a high powered blender. Blend until mostly smooth with some small basil pieces remaining. For best flavor, chill the dressing before serving. If serving immediately, place it in the freezer for up to 30 minutes to quickly cool.
- Mix the greens:
- Gently combine the spring salad mix with torn butter lettuce leaves in a large bowl. This creates a base with varying textures and flavors that elevate the salad beyond basic greens.
- Choose your serving method:
- For immediate consumption with no leftovers, add all salad ingredients to the bowl of greens and drizzle with dressing to taste. If expecting leftovers, keep avocado and bacon separate to prevent sogginess. For entertaining, create a salad bar with all ingredients in separate bowls for guests to customize their plates.
Pin it
The asparagus is my favorite part of this salad. I discovered by accident that thin asparagus sliced into pieces is perfectly crisp tender without blanching. My family initially questioned this method but now requests this salad specifically for the fresh asparagus texture.
Make Ahead Tips
This spring salad truly shines when it comes to advance preparation. You can prepare all components separately up to two days before serving. Store the washed and dried lettuce in a large bowl, topped with paper towel lined bags containing the prepped vegetables. The dressing actually improves with time, developing deeper flavor as it sits in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Seasonal Variations
While this recipe highlights spring produce, you can easily adapt it throughout the year. In summer, swap asparagus for fresh corn and add cherry tomatoes. Fall versions work beautifully with roasted butternut squash cubes and dried cranberries. Winter adaptations might include roasted beets and orange segments. The lemon basil dressing pairs wonderfully with all these variations, making this a year round favorite with seasonal adjustments.
Pin it
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad pairs beautifully with grilled proteins like lemon herb chicken or seared salmon. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve alongside a crusty artisan bread and creamy soup. When presenting for special occasions, consider arranging the salad on a large platter with ingredients in sections for visual impact before tossing at the table. The bright colors create a stunning presentation that always generates compliments.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients like vegetables, bacon, cheese, and dressing ahead of time. Keep them separate until ready to serve for optimal texture.
- → What can I substitute for goat cheese?
You can use feta cheese as a substitute for goat cheese or choose other creamy cheese options that suit your taste.
- → Can I use different greens in the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match greens like spinach, arugula, or romaine to customize the salad to your liking.
- → How can I make this salad vegetarian?
Omit the bacon to make this salad vegetarian. You can also add roasted chickpeas or toasted nuts for extra texture and protein.
- → What variations can I try with the dressing?
Experiment with different herbs like parsley or cilantro, or adjust the sweetness with a touch more honey or sugar based on your taste preferences.
- → Can I serve this as a main dish?
Yes, you can turn this salad into a main dish by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.