There's something incredibly refreshing about a crisp spring mix salad, especially when it’s tossed with a sweet-tangy balsamic honey dressing. The tender greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy nuts offer a medley of textures, while the dressing ties everything together in a flavor-packed finish.

I started making this salad during a late spring weekend when the farmer’s market was overflowing with fresh greens and vibrant produce. It’s now a staple on our lunch table, especially when we want something quick, healthy, and satisfying.

Let’s dive into what makes this salad so irresistible.

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

Get ready to meet your new favorite go-to side dish—or even light main course. This spring mix salad isn’t just beautiful on the plate; it’s bursting with flavor, texture, and good-for-you ingredients.

First, it’s incredibly fast to make. You can have this on the table in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, last-minute gatherings, or a quick lunch between Zoom calls. No cooking required—just a bit of chopping and shaking.

It’s also super healthy. With nutrient-rich baby greens, heart-healthy olive oil, and a naturally sweetened dressing, you can feel good about going back for seconds. It’s vegetarian, gluten-free, and easily adaptable for dairy-free or vegan diets.

This salad is a budget-friendly crowd-pleaser. Most ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find at any grocery store. It looks elegant enough for a dinner party but is simple enough for everyday meals.

And let’s not forget how versatile it is. You can add grilled chicken or salmon for extra protein, toss in seasonal fruits like strawberries or pears, or even swap the nuts and cheese depending on what’s in your kitchen.

Now let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The charm of this spring mix salad lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is chosen for flavor and texture, making every bite feel balanced and satisfying.

Spring mix greens are the star of the show here. This tender blend usually includes baby lettuces, arugula, and spinach. It’s delicate, slightly peppery, and perfect for absorbing just the right amount of dressing. Be sure to rinse and spin dry your greens for the best texture.

Cherry tomatoes add juicy bursts of flavor and color. I love using red and yellow ones for visual appeal. Slice them in half to help them soak up the dressing and release their natural sweetness.

Goat cheese brings a creamy, tangy richness that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the honey and the acidity of the balsamic vinegar. If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, crumbled feta or blue cheese works wonderfully too.

Chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, give the salad a satisfying crunch. Toasting them for a few minutes enhances their flavor and makes the texture even more irresistible.

For the balsamic honey dressing, you’ll need extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey. These four ingredients create a well-balanced dressing that’s sweet, tangy, and silky smooth when emulsified. No fancy blender required—just a jar with a lid or a whisk and bowl.

You won’t need any special equipment beyond a salad spinner and a small mason jar or bowl for mixing the dressing. A sharp knife and a cutting board are the only other tools required.

How To Make This Spring Mix Salad With Balsamic Honey Dressing

Making this salad couldn’t be simpler, but a few small tips will take it from good to unforgettable.

Start by prepping your produce. Wash and dry your spring mix greens thoroughly. Even pre-washed greens can benefit from a rinse to refresh them. Dry greens are key to preventing a soggy salad, so don’t skip this step.

Slice your cherry tomatoes in half and crumble your goat cheese. If you're toasting your nuts, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Let them cool slightly before adding to the salad.

To make the dressing, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil in a mason jar. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the dressing is emulsified and glossy. You can also whisk it in a small bowl if preferred.

Assemble your salad in a large bowl. Start with the spring mix, then scatter over the cherry tomatoes, goat cheese, and toasted nuts. Drizzle the dressing over the top—start with about half and toss gently to coat. Add more if desired.

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. The total prep time is just around 10-15 minutes, and the end result is fresh, vibrant, and deeply satisfying.

Storage Options

If you have leftover salad (a rare occasion in our house), it’s best to store the components separately. Dressed greens tend to wilt quickly, so only toss together what you plan to eat right away.

Store any extra salad dressing in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to one week. It may separate as it sits—just give it a good shake or stir before using again.

Spring mix greens are delicate, so keep them in their original container or a sealed storage bag with a paper towel to absorb moisture. They should last 3-4 days in the fridge if kept dry.

If your salad is already dressed, try to enjoy it within 24 hours. You can revive slightly wilted greens with a fresh handful of undressed spring mix and a splash of extra dressing.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this salad is how endlessly adaptable it is. You can tweak it based on what’s in season, what’s in your pantry, or who you’re serving.

For a fruity twist, add thin slices of fresh pear, apple, or strawberries. The sweetness contrasts beautifully with the tangy goat cheese and balsamic dressing.

Swap the goat cheese for something else creamy and flavorful. Feta offers a saltier bite, while blue cheese adds boldness. For a dairy-free option, try avocado slices or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.

Nuts can easily be changed up. Try slivered almonds, pistachios, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. Toasting whatever you use enhances the flavor and crunch.

Add protein to turn this side into a full meal. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon are all delicious additions. For a vegetarian option, chickpeas or quinoa offer extra substance.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with the dressing. A splash of orange juice or maple syrup can add a new dimension. Or try a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy version.

Experimenting with this salad is part of the fun. Use this recipe as your base, then make it your own based on the season, your mood, or what’s in your fridge.