Light & Refreshing Spring Salads for Warmer Days

As the days grow longer and the temperature rises, heavy winter meals give way to light, refreshing dishes that celebrate the vibrancy of spring. 

Salads are the perfect way to embrace the season, combining crisp greens, fresh vegetables, and bright dressings for a delicious and nutritious meal. 

Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a main course, these spring salad ideas are packed with flavour and seasonal goodness.

1. Spring Greens & Citrus Salad

This salad bursts with the fresh flavours of citrus and peppery greens, making it a perfect light lunch or dinner starter.

Ingredients:

100g mixed spring greens (rocket, watercress, baby spinach)

1 orange, peeled and sliced

1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented

50g crumbled feta cheese

30g walnuts, toasted

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tbsp honey

1 tsp Dijon mustard

Salt and black pepper to taste

Method:

In a large bowl, combine the spring greens, orange slices, and grapefruit segments.

In a small jar, mix olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, then shake well.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.

Top with crumbled feta and toasted walnuts.

2. Asparagus & Pea Salad with Lemon Dressing

A true celebration of spring produce, this salad is fresh, zesty, and wonderfully green.

Ingredients:

200g asparagus, trimmed and blanched

100g sugar snap peas, sliced

100g fresh or frozen peas, blanched

50g radishes, thinly sliced

2 tbsp lemon juice

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp honey

1 tsp wholegrain mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

20g fresh mint, chopped

50g goat’s cheese, crumbled

Method:

Arrange the asparagus, sugar snap peas, peas, and radishes on a large plate.

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper.

Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and toss lightly.

Sprinkle with fresh mint and goat’s cheese before serving.

3. Strawberry & Avocado Spinach Salad

Sweet strawberries and creamy avocado create a delightful contrast in this beautifully simple salad.

Ingredients:

150g baby spinach

100g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

1 ripe avocado, sliced

50g toasted almonds

50g crumbled blue cheese or feta

2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp honey

Salt and black pepper to taste

Method:

In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, and avocado.

In a small jar, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.

Top with toasted almonds and crumbled cheese before serving.

4. Radish, Cucumber & Herb Salad

A crisp and refreshing salad that is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or fish.

Ingredients:

1 cucumber, thinly sliced

100g radishes, thinly sliced

20g fresh dill, chopped

20g fresh chives, chopped

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp honey

Salt and black pepper to taste

Method:

In a large bowl, mix cucumber, radishes, dill, and chives.

In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well.

Serve immediately for a crisp, refreshing side dish.

Final Thoughts

Spring is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, light meals that highlight the best seasonal produce. Whether you’re in the mood for a citrusy, sweet, or herby salad, these recipes will bring a burst of freshness to your table. Enjoy them as a side dish, a light main, or a delightful addition to your springtime picnics and barbecues!

What’s your favourite spring salad? Let us know in the comments below!