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Vibrant spring salad with goat cheese and walnuts served on a rustic wooden table.

Spring Salad

A vibrant salad combining peppery mixed greens, creamy goat cheese, crunchy walnuts, and ripe avocado, all tossed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Healthy
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Salad Base
  • 4 cups Mixed greens (spring mix, baby spinach, or arugula blend) Choose a tender mix for contrast with goat cheese.
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes, halved Use sweet, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
  • 1 cup Cucumber, sliced (English or Persian) English cucumbers are mild and less seedy.
  • 1/4 cup Red onion, thinly sliced Soak in cold water if raw onion bites too hard.
  • 1 medium Avocado, diced (ripe but firm) Slightly underripe holds shape; ripe is creamier.
  • 1/2 cup Toasted walnuts Toast briefly to deepen flavor and remove moisture.
Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic vinaigrette A simple 3:1 oil to vinegar ratio works well if making your own.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper To taste.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rinse the mixed greens and spin or pat them dry. Place the greens in a large salad bowl.
  2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and the thin red onion slices to the bowl. Toss gently to distribute.
  3. Dice the avocado and scatter the pieces on top so they stay visible instead of getting buried.
  4. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese evenly over the salad. Break any large chunks with your fingers so each forkful gets some creaminess.
  5. Scatter the toasted walnuts or pecans across the top for crunch.
  6. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  7. Using tongs, toss gently just until the leaves are lightly coated and the ingredients are evenly distributed. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 6gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 200mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2g

Notes

This salad is best enjoyed right away. If needed, store in the fridge but consume within 24 hours to avoid wilting. Keep components separate for longer storage.

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