Spring salads are particularly enticing because they highlight the abundance of fresh, seasonal ingredients available during this time of year, providing a refreshing departure from heavier winter fare. A spring salad typically features a mix of tender baby greens, crisp vegetables like asparagus and radishes, along with bright fruits such as strawberries and citrus. To make one, start with your choice of greens, add in seasonal vegetables and fruits, and top with protein-rich ingredients like grilled chicken or chickpeas for satiety. Enhance flavor and texture with ingredients like roasted sweet potatoes and nuts, which provide a satisfying crunch and hearty satisfaction. The result is a delicious, nutritious, and filling salad that perfectly embodies the essence of spring. To get you started, here are 6 recipes to spring you into a season of flavorful and satisfying salads.
Shredded Brussels Sprouts and Apple Salad with Toasted Hazelnuts
Brussels sprouts are often considered a staple in hearty winter dishes, commonly found during end-of-year holidays. However, they often remain seasonally available until March, making them an excellent choice for an early spring salad. For those accustomed to eating them only cooked, it may come as a surprise to learn that these petite green sprouts offer a delightful crisp texture and flavor when enjoyed fresh. For the perfect salad, shred Brussels sprouts, add sweet-tart apples and a generous amount of Oregon Hazelnuts. Tossed in a sweet and tangy maple lemon vinaigrette, it’s a light and vibrant dish that celebrates the transition into the new season.
Sweet Potato Asparagus Salad
Nothing signals the arrival of spring quite like the reappearance of fresh asparagus on the grocery shelves. Celebrate the season’s bounty with this vibrant salad, where tender American Sweet Potatoes perfectly complement the crisp, seasonal favorite. Roasted with thyme, paprika, and a touch of honey, the sweet potatoes add a satisfying depth to the dish. Alongside this vibrant pair, enjoy the arugula, tart Granny Smith apple strips, creamy goat cheese cubes, and crunchy nuts, all harmonizing to create a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Drizzled with a tangy dressing of olive oil, mustard, honey, and chopped parsley, this dish is a satisfying and seasonal delight.
Pecan Brussels Sprouts Salad
If you’re still craving the crunch of fresh Brussels sprouts, here’s another fresh and flavorful salad for you. Nutritious American Pecans are tossed with shredded Brussels sprouts, pomegranate seeds and apples for a light, colorful salad. Served alongside a simple mustard dressing, this crisp, fresh salad, courtesy of the American Pecan Council, is perfect salad for any day of the week.
Prawn and Avocado Salad with Creamy Orange Chive Dressing
This zesty and colorful salad with lemony prawns and a bright tangy dressing is the essence of California living. Succulent prawns are grilled to perfection and paired with diced navel oranges, creamy avocados, and mixed lettuce greens. A creamy, yet refreshing dressing, made with yogurt, chives, fresh orange juice, and citrus zest, adds a burst of flavor to this bright salad. Elevate your meal by pairing it with a glass of California Wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or Rosé.
Pear Burrata Salad
It doesn’t get any simpler! Indulge in Liren Baker’s (@kitchconfidante) Pear Burrata Salad, a beautiful bowl with a crisp baby arugula base and topped with luscious Anjou pears and creamy burrata cheese. If you can’t find burrata, substitute with mozzarella! Minced red onions and stone ground mustard, add a delightful kick. Topped with the irresistible crunch of crushed candied walnuts and a simple vinaigrette, this salad promises a burst of freshness and decadence in every bite.
Red Quinoa and Kale Salad with Toasted Hazelnuts and Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette
This hearty, healthy salad is loaded with crunchy Oregon Hazelnuts, whole grain quinoa, and tender kale. The combination of sweet dried cherries and a tangy honey balsamic dressing complements the nutty, savory flavors of the grains and greens to create a delicious side dish for any occasion.
