Vibrant Spring Mix Salad with Sweet Cherries and Feta

This vibrant spring mix salad with sweet cherries and feta brings a fresh, colorful energy to the table. Juicy cherries, creamy feta, crisp cucumbers, and crunchy walnuts come together on a bed of tender spring greens, tossed in a zippy apple cider vinaigrette. It’s a fast, nourishing, and totally satisfying salad that I turn to when I want something light but flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this salad because it feels like a celebration of spring with every bite. It’s quick to throw together, requires zero cooking, and delivers that ideal mix of sweet, savory, tangy, and crunchy. The sweet cherries bring unexpected depth, while the feta and Dijon dressing keep things bold and balanced. Whether I’m making lunch for myself or serving guests, this salad is always a hit.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the salad

• spring lettuce mix
• cucumbers, sliced lengthwise and chopped
• sweet cherries, pitted and halved
• blueberries
• feta cheese, crumbled
• walnuts, chopped

For the dressing

• Dijon mustard
• apple cider vinegar
• extra virgin olive oil
• kosher salt and black pepper

Directions

1. I combine the spring lettuce mix, cucumbers, cherries, blueberries, feta, and walnuts in a large mixing bowl. I toss gently so everything gets evenly distributed.
2. In a small bowl, I whisk together the Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil. I season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, then taste and adjust as needed.
3. I drizzle the dressing over the salad and give it one last gentle toss to coat all the ingredients. Then I serve immediately while everything is fresh and crisp.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• I swap goat cheese for feta when I want something even creamier.
• I use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a different kind of crunch.
• I add a handful of fresh mint or basil to brighten the flavors even more.
• I top it with grilled chicken or salmon to turn it into a main meal.
• I substitute strawberries or peaches if cherries aren’t in season.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store the salad and dressing separately if I’m not serving it right away. Once dressed, the greens can wilt quickly.
Shelf life: Undressed salad will keep in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Dressing can be refrigerated for up to 1 week.
Reheating: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature—no reheating needed.

FAQs

What makes this salad different from other spring salads?

The combination of sweet cherries and salty feta really sets it apart. It’s that unique sweet-savory contrast that makes this salad feel special.

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Fresh is best for texture and flavor, but if I only have frozen cherries, I thaw and drain them well before adding them to the salad.

Is this salad filling enough for a meal?

On its own, it’s a light meal, but I like to bulk it up with grilled chicken, tofu, or salmon for something more substantial.

What’s the best way to pit cherries quickly?

I use a cherry pitter when I have one on hand. Otherwise, I slice them in half and twist out the pit with my fingers or a small spoon.

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

Yes, but I keep the salad ingredients and dressing separate until I’m ready to serve. That way, everything stays crisp and fresh.

Conclusion

This vibrant spring mix salad with sweet cherries and feta is the kind of dish I come back to again and again. It’s easy, nourishing, and a total celebration of fresh seasonal ingredients. Whether I’m serving it as a side or enjoying it as a main, it always brings a refreshing burst of flavor that feels just right—especially in spring and summer.

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