Fresh Spring Salad with Zesty Lemon Basil Vinaigrette
This vibrant spring salad celebrates fresh flavors with seasonal veggies, creamy avocado, and a zesty lemon basil vinaigrette.
Equipment
- - Pot
- - Bowl
- food processor
- - Mixing bowl
- serving platter
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 bunch Asparagus Tender crunch; substitute with green beans if unavailable.
- 1 cup Frozen Peas Sweetness and color; swap for fresh when in season.
- 4 cups Salad Greens Mixed greens or spinach can be substituted.
- 1 cup Radishes Peppery bite; substitute with sliced cucumbers if desired.
- 1 cup Feta Cheese Creamy and tangy; can substitute with goat cheese or omit for dairy-free.
- 1 medium Avocado Adds richness; diced cucumber is a lighter alternative.
- 1/2 cup Toasted Pistachios Nutty crunch; can swap with walnuts or pecans.
- 1 cup Roasted Chickpeas Hearty protein; substitute with white beans or omit.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Herbs (Basil, Mint, Chives) Enhances flavor; use any fresh herbs on hand.
For the Dressing
- 1 cup Fresh Basil Star ingredient for vinaigrette; essential.
- 1 clove Garlic Adjust amount to taste.
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice and Zest Provides bright acidity.
- 1 tablespoon White Wine Vinegar Substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed.
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil Adds richness; use extra virgin for a robust taste.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to taste.
Instructions
How to Make Spring Salad
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then prepare a bowl of ice water to stop cooking.
- Add asparagus to the boiling water for about 1 minute until bright green, then transfer it to the ice water bath.
- Once cooled, drain asparagus and mix with thawed peas.
- In a food processor, blend basil, garlic, lemon juice and zest, white wine vinegar, olive oil, and salt until smooth.
- In a mixing bowl, add asparagus and peas, drizzle on half the dressing, and season with salt and pepper.
- Layer salad greens on a serving platter, followed by asparagus and pea mixture, then scatter radishes, feta, avocado, pistachios, and chickpeas.
- Drizzle remaining dressing over the salad, adjust seasoning, and serve immediately.
Notes
This salad is best assembled right before serving to maintain freshness. Feel free to garnish with extra herbs.