Pin It This vibrant dish features tender spring greens combined with crunchy radishes, cool cucumber, julienned carrot, and sliced spring onions. A simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey gently coats the vegetables, while fresh herbs and toasted seeds add texture and aroma. Ready in 15 minutes, it’s a light, fresh, and colorful option that celebrates seasonal produce and offers a balance of uplifting flavors.
The first day spring actually felt like spring this year, I came home with armfuls of radishes and cucumbers from the farmers market, their dirt still clinging like they'd been pulled minutes before. My kitchen windowsill caught that perfect afternoon light, and suddenly dinner didn't need cooking at all. This salad became my celebration of the season turning.
Last week I made this for friends who claimed they hated salads. They went back for thirds. The combination of tender greens and crisp vegetables somehow feels substantial rather than skimpy, and that little bit of sweetness in the dressing makes all the difference.
Ingredients
- Mixed spring greens: Baby spinach and arugula bring peppery notes while lambs lettuce adds delicacy, creating layers of flavor in every bite
- Fresh radishes: Thinly sliced they provide that signature spring crunch and a beautiful pink pop against the green
- Medium cucumber: Choose firm ones without soft spots, and slice them as thin as you can manage for the best texture
- Small carrot: Julienned into matchsticks, this adds sweetness and another satisfying crunch element
- Spring onions: Their mild onion flavor bridges the gap between sweet vegetables and peppery greens
- Extra virgin olive oil: Use your best quality here since the dressing is simple and this flavor really shines through
- Fresh lemon juice: Brightens everything and cuts through the olive oils richness beautifully
- Dijon mustard: The secret ingredient that makes the dressing cling to every single leaf
- Honey: Just enough to round out the acidity and bring all the flavors together
- Fresh herbs: Chives, dill, or parsley add an aromatic finish that makes the salad feel special
- Toasted seeds: Sunflower or pumpkin seeds bring a nutty richness that contrasts with the crisp vegetables
Instructions
- Prep the vegetables:
- Combine spring greens, sliced radishes, cucumber, carrot, and spring onions in a large salad bowl, letting the colors mingle
- Make the dressing:
- Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until thickened and emulsified
- Dress and toss:
- Drizzle dressing over vegetables and toss gently until every piece is lightly coated
- Finish with garnishes:
- Sprinkle fresh herbs and toasted seeds over the top for that final touch
Pin It My mother in law still talks about the afternoon I served this on her back porch. We sat there for hours, picking at the leftovers and talking about nothing much at all, while the spring sun moved across the sky.
Choosing the Best Vegetables
I've learned to pick radishes that feel heavy for their size with bright green tops attached. For cucumbers, smaller ones often have fewer seeds and better flavor. The farmers market is your friend here, since supermarket produce has often traveled too far to maintain that just picked quality.
Making It Your Own
Sometimes I'll add crumbled feta when I want something more substantial. Sliced avocado works beautifully too, adding creaminess that plays off all the crunch. Sugar snap peas are another favorite addition when they're in season.
Perfect Wine Pairings
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the vegetables' freshness while complementing their natural sweetness. Pinot Grigio works wonderfully as well, especially on warm days when you want something light and refreshing.
- Chill your wine glasses beforehand for that extra touch
- Serve the wine chilled but not ice cold to preserve its subtle flavors
- Pour a little extra because this salad makes you want linger
Pin It This salad is everything I love about spring eating, fresh and simple and full of possibility. Hope it brings some brightness to your table too.
Recipe FAQs
- → What vegetables are included in this salad?
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The salad includes spring greens like baby spinach, arugula, and lamb's lettuce, along with thinly sliced radishes, cucumber, carrot, and spring onions.
- → What is the dressing made of?
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The dressing combines extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and freshly ground black pepper for a balanced tangy flavor.
- → Can I add protein to this dish?
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Yes, adding crumbled feta cheese or slices of hard-boiled egg enhances the protein content while complementing the fresh flavors.
- → Are there options to vary the texture?
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Including sliced avocado or sugar snap peas provides additional creaminess and crunch for a more diverse mouthfeel.
- → What garnishes are recommended?
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Fresh herbs such as chives, dill, or parsley, along with toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds, add aroma and a subtle nutty crunch.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
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Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-free dietary needs.
