Recipe

Refreshing Spring Herb and Citrus Fresh Salad

A light, vibrant salad that combines fresh spring herbs, crisp greens, juicy citrus segments, and toasted almonds for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal as a side or light lunch.

⏱ 15 min total 🥣 4 servings ⭐ Easy 🌍 Contemporary American
Prep15 min
Cook0 min
Total15 min
Serves4

Ingredients

  • 4 cups mixed baby greens (baby spinach, arugula, and butter lettuce)
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves, loosely packed
  • 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill fronds
  • 2 medium oranges, peeled and segmented
  • 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup toasted sliced almonds
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt to taste (about 1/4 teaspoon)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the herbs: Rinse parsley, mint, and dill under cold water and pat dry. Roughly chop parsley and mint; leave dill fronds whole for visual appeal.
  2. Segment the oranges: Using a sharp knife, cut away the peel and white pith from each orange. Working over a bowl to catch juices, carefully cut out individual orange segments between membranes.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
  4. Assemble the salad base: In a large bowl, place mixed baby greens, chopped parsley, chopped mint, sliced cucumber, and orange segments.
  5. Add toasted almonds to the bowl and gently toss all salad components with the dressing until evenly coated.
  6. Transfer salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Scatter fresh dill fronds over the top for a fresh visual and herbal aroma.
  7. Optional: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for added creamy texture and tanginess.
  8. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp textures and bright flavors at their freshest.

Chef tips

  • Toast your sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden and fragrant to enhance flavor.
  • If fresh dill is unavailable, use fresh tarragon or omit it; the salad will still be flavorful.
  • To save time, buy pre-washed mixed greens but double-check for any moisture to avoid sogginess—dry greens well with a salad spinner or paper towels.
  • For a vegan version, omit honey or substitute it with maple syrup.

Pros

  • Quick and easy to prepare with no cooking involved.
  • Packed with fresh herbs and citrus providing natural brightness and antioxidants.
  • Versatile and perfect as a side or a light main course.

Cons / watch-outs

  • Best served immediately; greens can wilt if dressed too far in advance.
  • Contains nuts, so it is not suitable for those with nut allergies.

Diet & nutrition notes

Diet notes: This salad is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free. For vegan diets, replace honey with maple syrup. Nut-free substitutions include roasted pumpkin seeds instead of almonds.

Nutrition note: Each serving provides a low-calorie, nutrient-dense option rich in vitamins C and K from herbs and greens, healthy fats from olive oil and almonds, and a modest amount of fiber and protein.

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