Print

Spring Mix Salad with Feta, Pine Nuts, and Lime Dressing Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 9 reviews

A fresh and vibrant Spring Mix Salad featuring a zesty lime vinaigrette, crumbled feta, and crunchy pine nuts. This light and flavorful salad is perfect as a healthy side or a quick nutritious meal, combining tender mixed greens with tangy and nutty accents.

Ingredients

For the Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 teaspoons fresh-squeezed lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon red wine vinegar

For the Salad

  • 8 handfuls of Spring Mix salad greens (or your favorite mix of greens)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh-ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Greens: If your spring mix greens are not pre-washed or you want extra crispness, wash them thoroughly using a salad spinner. Remove any prickly stems if desired, although this step is optional.
  2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh-squeezed lime juice, and red wine vinegar. Taste the vinaigrette and adjust by adding more olive oil a little at a time if the dressing is too tart for your preference.
  3. Toast the Pine Nuts (Optional): Place pine nuts in a dry pan over medium-high heat, shaking the pan frequently to prevent burning. Toast for about 1 to 2 minutes until lightly golden, then remove from heat immediately to avoid browning.
  4. Assemble the Salad: Add the spring mix greens to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with enough dressing to coat the leaves lightly, then toss gently to combine.
  5. Add Cheese and Nuts: Sprinkle the crumbled feta and toasted pine nuts over the greens. Toss again gently to distribute the toppings evenly.
  6. Season and Serve: Season the salad with salt and fresh-ground black pepper to taste. Toss once more and serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and textures.

Notes

  • Use fresh-squeezed lime juice for the best flavor in the dressing; bottled lime juice can be used but may alter the taste.
  • Toasting pine nuts enhances their flavor but can be skipped if in a hurry.
  • If using pre-washed spring mix from a bag, washing before use is generally unnecessary.
  • Adjust the dressing balance to your taste preference, adding more olive oil if the acidity is too strong.
  • Serve the salad immediately after assembling to maintain crispness of the greens.