This vibrant Spring Mix Salad is a refreshing blend of crisp greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and savory Parmesan cheese, all brought together with a tangy homemade balsamic dressing. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s the perfect side dish for busy weeknights or an elegant starter for dinner parties!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Lightning Fast: From fridge to table in just 10 minutes – no cooking required!
  • Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of peppery spring mix, sweet tomatoes, and savory Parmesan creates a perfect balance of flavors.
  • Versatile: Works as a side dish, starter, or add protein for a complete meal.
  • Homemade Dressing: The simple balsamic vinaigrette elevates this salad beyond ordinary, and you’ll never want to buy bottled dressing again.
spring mix salad

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Balsamic Dressing:

  • Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for the best flavor – it’s the foundation of the dressing and delivers that rich, fruity taste.
  • Balsamic Vinegar: Brings sweet tanginess that pairs perfectly with the spring greens.
  • Dijon Mustard: Acts as an emulsifier to keep the dressing together while adding a subtle kick.
  • Garlic: Just one clove, grated, packs a punch of flavor without overwhelming.
  • Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that make all the other flavors pop.

For the Salad:

  • Spring Mix: This beautiful blend of baby lettuces offers various textures and flavors in every bite.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the peppery greens and tangy dressing.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami element that brings everything together.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

  • Protein Power: Add grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas to transform this side into a complete meal.
  • Fruit Forward: Toss in sliced strawberries, blueberries, or mandarin oranges for a sweet contrast.
  • Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle with toasted walnuts, pecans, or pine nuts for added texture.
  • Avocado Boost: Add creamy avocado chunks for healthy fats and extra satisfaction.
  • Cheese Swap: Try crumbled feta, goat cheese, or blue cheese instead of Parmesan.

How to Make Spring Mix Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture becomes smooth and emulsified. Set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Base

Place your spring mix in a large bowl. Drizzle half of the prepared dressing over the greens and sprinkle with half of the Parmesan cheese. Gently toss until the leaves are evenly coated.

Step 3: Add Toppings

Spread the halved cherry tomatoes across the top of the dressed greens. Finish by sprinkling the remaining Parmesan cheese over everything.

Step 4: Final Touch

You can either drizzle the remaining dressing over the salad now or save it for another use. If serving immediately, a little extra dressing on top makes for a beautiful presentation.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Dressing Timing: Make the dressing up to 3 days ahead and store in the refrigerator for even faster assembly.
  • Gentle Tossing: Use your hands or salad tongs to toss the greens – forks can bruise delicate leaves.
  • Room Temperature Tomatoes: Never refrigerate tomatoes before using – cold temperatures dull their flavor.
  • Double the Dressing: The homemade vinaigrette is so delicious, consider making extra to enjoy throughout the week.
  • Layering: Instead of tossing everything together, try layering ingredients in a clear bowl for a stunning presentation.

How to Serve

This versatile salad shines in many settings:

As a Starter

Serve small portions in chilled salad plates before the main course at dinner parties.

With Main Dishes

Pair with grilled meats, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It’s particularly delicious alongside:

  • Lasagna or pasta dishes
  • Grilled chicken or steak
  • Quiche or frittata
  • Crusty bread and soup

For a Crowd

Double or triple the recipe and serve in a large, wide bowl so the toppings are visible.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Components Separately

For maximum freshness, store the dressing, greens, tomatoes, and cheese separately:

  • Dressing: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week
  • Spring mix: Store in original packaging or between paper towels in a container for 3-5 days
  • Tomatoes: Keep at room temperature for best flavor
  • Grated Parmesan: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks

Dressed Salad

Once dressed, the salad is best consumed within an hour as the greens will begin to wilt.

Reviving Wilted Greens

If your spring mix is slightly wilted, soak in ice water for 5-10 minutes, then thoroughly dry before using.

FAQs

  1. Can I use a different type of lettuce for this salad?

    Absolutely! While spring mix offers wonderful variety, you can substitute with baby spinach, arugula, or even romaine lettuce. Each green provides a different flavor profile – arugula will be more peppery, spinach more mild, and romaine more crisp. Feel free to experiment based on your preferences.

  2. How can I make this salad more filling?

    Turn this side salad into a complete meal by adding protein like grilled chicken, hard-boiled eggs, or chickpeas. For a heartier vegetarian option, try adding roasted sweet potatoes, quinoa, or avocado. The basic salad creates a perfect canvas for building a more substantial dish.

  3. My dressing separated – what happened?

    Oil and vinegar naturally separate over time. This is completely normal! Just give your dressing a quick whisk or shake before using it again. If you’re making the dressing ahead, consider adding a bit more Dijon mustard next time, as it acts as an emulsifier that helps keep the dressing blended longer.

  4. Can I prepare this salad for meal prep?

    Yes, but with a strategy! Prep all components separately and assemble just before eating. Store the dressing in a small container, pre-wash and dry your greens, slice the tomatoes, and grate the cheese. Keep everything refrigerated separately, then combine when you’re ready to eat for the freshest result.

Final Thoughts

This Spring Mix Salad might seem simple, but it’s the perfect example of how quality ingredients brought together with care can create something truly special. The homemade balsamic dressing transforms everyday greens into a restaurant-worthy dish that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Give yourself the gift of this 10-minute wonder – whether as a quick side dish on busy weeknights or the start of a special meal with friends. Your taste buds will thank you!

Print
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Spring Mix Salad Recipe

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  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Salads
  • Method: No-cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

This Spring Mix Salad is a vibrant, fresh, and healthy dish featuring tender spring greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a bold homemade balsamic vinaigrette. Ready in just 10 minutes, it makes a perfect light lunch or flavorful side for any meal.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Balsamic Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons creamy Dijon mustard
  • 1 large garlic clove, grated
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Salad:

  • 5 ounces spring mix
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, cut in half
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is well emulsified and smooth. Set aside for later use.
  2. Toss the Salad: In a large salad bowl, add the spring mix. Pour in half of the prepared balsamic dressing and add half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Gently toss together to evenly coat the greens without bruising them.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Cheese: Evenly spread the cherry tomato halves on top of the tossed salad. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the tomatoes for added flavor and texture.
  4. Finish & Serve: Drizzle a little more salad dressing over the salad if desired. Serve immediately or within an hour for best freshness. Leftover salad can be refrigerated, though it is best enjoyed fresh.

Notes

  • You can use any leafy greens if spring mix is unavailable.
  • Add nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
  • For a vegan version, omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free substitute.
  • The dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to one week.
  • Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins for a heartier meal.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
  • Calories: 190
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg
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Hi, I’m Lisa Denton! From quick dinners to family favorites, I’m here to help you bring joy to the table, one recipe at a time.

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