Spring Mix Salad With Balsamic Honey Dressing Recipe

There's something undeniably fresh and vibrant about a big bowl of spring mix salad tossed with a tangy-sweet balsamic honey dressing. The crisp greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy goat cheese come together in every bite to deliver a refreshing flavor that's both satisfying and light.

this Recipe

This salad became my go-to during a particularly hectic summer when cooking full meals felt overwhelming. With just a few pantry staples and some fresh produce, I had a dish that looked fancy, tasted incredible, and took less than 15 minutes to make. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a colorful side, or a no-fuss dinner starter, this salad checks all the boxes.

Let me show you why this simple yet elegant salad deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.

Why You'll Love This Spring Mix Salad With Balsamic Honey Dressing

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite anytime salad. This Spring Mix Salad With Balsamic Honey Dressing is everything you want in a fresh, fast, and flavorful dish.

First off, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. No cooking is required, and the entire recipe comes together in under 15 minutes. It’s perfect for busy days or when you need a last-minute addition to your meal.

It’s also wonderfully healthy and nutritious. Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, spring mix greens are a great way to sneak more veggies into your day without sacrificing taste. Paired with a homemade dressing that’s free of additives, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.

From a budget standpoint, this salad is a cost-effective winner. Using affordable, seasonal ingredients makes it easy on your wallet, and since the dressing is homemade, you're saving even more compared to store-bought options.

Finally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Add grilled chicken or salmon to turn it into a hearty meal, or swap in different cheeses, nuts, or fruits depending on what’s in your fridge. It’s a perfect canvas for creativity in the kitchen.

Once you try it, you’ll understand why this salad is always on my weekly meal plan.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this Spring Mix Salad lies in the harmony between fresh, crisp ingredients and a beautifully balanced dressing. Let’s take a closer look at what makes each component shine.

Spring mix greens are the heart of this salad. The blend usually includes baby lettuces, arugula, spinach, and chard, providing a mix of textures and flavors from peppery to mild. Be sure to choose a pre-washed mix for convenience, but give it a quick rinse if you want extra crispness.

Cherry tomatoes add juicy bursts of sweetness and a vibrant pop of color. I love using multi-colored heirloom varieties for visual appeal, but standard red cherry tomatoes work just as well. Halve them so they mix well and are easier to eat.

Goat cheese brings a creamy, tangy element that contrasts beautifully with the sweet dressing and crisp greens. Crumbling it over the salad gives you bits of creamy goodness in every bite. If you're not a goat cheese fan, feta or fresh mozzarella make great substitutes.

Toasted walnuts give this salad a satisfying crunch and earthy richness. Toasting them enhances their flavor, so don’t skip that step. You can also use pecans or slivered almonds if you prefer.

For the balsamic honey dressing, you'll need balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and honey. The vinegar adds tang, the honey brings sweetness, and the mustard acts as an emulsifier, helping the dressing stay smooth and well-blended. Use a good quality balsamic for the best flavor.

No special equipment is required here—just a large mixing bowl, a small jar or whisk for the dressing, and a salad spinner if you want your greens extra dry and crisp.

How To Make This Spring Mix Salad With Balsamic Honey Dressing

Putting together this salad couldn’t be easier, but each step has a little trick to make the flavors shine. Here’s how to do it right.

Start by preparing your dressing. In a small bowl or jar, combine 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 2 teaspoons of honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Slowly whisk in ¼ cup of olive oil until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. If using a jar, just shake it well with the lid on until everything is fully blended.

Wash and dry your spring mix greens thoroughly. If you're using a pre-washed mix, a quick rinse and spin can still help refresh the leaves. Transfer them to a large salad bowl and set aside.

Halve your cherry tomatoes and crumble your goat cheese. Measure out your toasted walnuts or quickly toast raw ones in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring often until fragrant and slightly browned. Let them cool before adding to the salad to keep the cheese from melting.

Drizzle about two-thirds of the balsamic honey dressing over the greens and gently toss to coat. You want everything lightly dressed but not soggy. Add more dressing as needed, depending on your preference.

Top the dressed greens with the halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted walnuts. Give the salad one final gentle toss, or leave the toppings on for a more decorative presentation.

From start to finish, this salad takes just about 15 minutes to make. It’s best enjoyed immediately while the greens are fresh and the flavors are at their peak.

Storage Options

If you’re prepping ahead, you can make the dressing up to a week in advance. Store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator and give it a good shake before using. The honey may cause it to thicken slightly when cold, so let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

For the salad itself, it’s best assembled right before eating. However, you can wash and dry the greens, halve the tomatoes, and toast the nuts in advance. Keep each component in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Once the salad is dressed, leftovers don’t store well as the greens will wilt quickly. If you anticipate extras, store dressing on the side and add it just before serving to preserve freshness.

To rehydrate slightly wilted greens (if undressed), soak them in a bowl of ice water for a few minutes, then spin dry. They’ll perk right back up.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this salad is how customizable it is. With just a few swaps, you can tailor it to fit your tastes, dietary needs, or what you have on hand.

For a heartier meal, add a protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted chickpeas. This transforms the salad from a side into a satisfying main dish without any extra fuss.

Not a fan of goat cheese? No problem. Feta offers a salty, crumbly texture, while blue cheese adds bold flavor. For a milder touch, try shredded mozzarella or thin slices of parmesan.

If you want more sweetness, sliced apples, strawberries, or dried cranberries make wonderful additions. They pair beautifully with the balsamic honey dressing and add another layer of texture.

For a nut-free version, skip the walnuts and use toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead. You’ll still get that satisfying crunch without the allergens.

Feel free to play with the dressing too. Maple syrup can replace honey for a deeper, earthy sweetness, and a splash of lemon juice adds extra brightness. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own.

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