Brighten Your Day with Spring Vegetable Salad & Lemon Vinaigrette

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

As spring blooms and the world around us comes to life, my kitchen feels like a vibrant garden bursting with fresh flavors. The moment I chopped into crisp asparagus and delicate sugar snap peas, I knew I had to create something special a Spring Vegetable Salad with Pistachios, Parmesan, and a zesty Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but an explosion of textures and tastes that make my taste buds dance with joy.

After a long winter of heavy meals, this bright and colorful dish provides a refreshing reprieve from the mundane. The nutty crunch of pistachios pairs beautifully with the peppery radishes and tender greens, while the garlicky vinaigrette ties everything together in a delightful way. Whipping this up is a breeze, making it the perfect go-to for weekday meals or elegant gatherings with friends. Join me on this delicious journey, and let s bring the essence of spring right to our dining tables!

Why will you love this Spring Vegetable Salad?

Vibrant Colors: This salad celebrates spring with an array of colorful veggies, making it a stunning centerpiece for any table.

Nutty Crunch: The addition of pistachios adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender vegetables.

Zesty Dressing: The Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette elevates the flavor profile, giving your salad a zesty kick that s irresistibly refreshing.

Quick and Easy: Prep and serve within minutes, making this a perfect dish for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Crowd-Pleaser: With its unique blend of flavors and textures, this salad is bound to impress family and friends alike! If you enjoy fresh salads, check out more ideas for your table with our best salad recipes.

Spring Vegetable Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
Fresh Asparagus 16 ounces, trimmed and sliced; brings a vibrant green color and a nutty flavor to your Spring Vegetable Salad.
Sugar Snap Peas 8 ounces, sliced on the bias; they add a delightful crispness and sweetness.
Radishes 8 ounces, thinly sliced into matchsticks; their peppery kick balances the salad beautifully.
Green Onions 2, thinly sliced on the bias; they provide a fresh pop of flavor and color.
Pistachios cup, roughly chopped; the nutty crunch makes every bite exciting.
Baby Spinach 5 ounces; tender greens that serve as a lovely base for the salad.
Kosher Salt to season; elevates all the flavors when sprinkled just right.
Ground Black Pepper to season; adds a zing that complements the veggies.

For the Garlicky Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette
Lemons 2, zested and juiced; they infuse the vinaigrette with bright acidity essential for the Spring Vegetable Salad with Pistachios.
Garlic 2 cloves, finely chopped or grated; it brings warmth and depth to the dressing.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil 2 3 tablespoons, good-quality; it binds the ingredients together while adding richness.
Dijon Mustard ½ teaspoon; lends a subtle tang that pairs perfectly with the lemon.
Honey ½ teaspoon; a hint of sweetness that balances the acidity.
Kosher Salt to season; makes the vinaigrette sing with flavor.
Ground Black Pepper to season; rounds out the taste and enhances the dressing.

How to Make Spring Vegetable Salad

1. Prep the Veggies: Start by trimming and slicing the asparagus, sugar snap peas, radishes, and green onions as indicated. Store these vibrant fresh veggies in individual airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days if you re prepping ahead.

2. Mix the Vinaigrette: Combine the zesty lemon juice, zest, garlic, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and seasonings in a small bowl or jar. Whisk or shake until well blended. This garlicky lemon Dijon vinaigrette can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, mix together baby spinach, asparagus, sugar snap peas, radishes, green onions, and chopped pistachios. Remember to sprinkle a healthy pinch of kosher salt and ground black pepper to highlight those fresh flavors.

4. Dress the Salad: Pour the homemade lemon Dijon vinaigrette over your salad mix. Toss everything together gently, ensuring all the vegetables are coated. Taste and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or extra seasoning if needed.

5. Serve Fresh: Enjoy your Spring Vegetable Salad immediately for the best flavors and textures. It s perfect for a light lunch or spring gathering!

Optional: Garnish with shaved parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Spring Vegetable Salad

Prep Ahead: Make your salad components the day before store veggies in airtight containers to keep them fresh and crisp for your Spring Vegetable Salad.

Vinaigrette Balance: When mixing the Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette, taste as you go. Adjust the acidity with more lemon juice or sweetness with extra honey if needed for perfect balance.

Crunch Factor: To avoid sogginess, don t dress the salad until you re ready to serve. This ensures all the components remain crisp and fresh.

Seasoning Matters: Season each layer of your salad, including the veggies and vinaigrette. A pinch of kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper enhances the flavors throughout the Spring Vegetable Salad.

Additions Welcome: Feel free to customize! Add other spring veggies like radicchio or snap peas for variety, or toss in some cheese for extra richness.

Presentation Counts: To impress, layer your salad ingredients neatly in a clear bowl. This vibrant display showcases the colorful veggies and makes your Spring Vegetable Salad irresistible!

Spring Vegetable Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your spring vegetable salad to suit your taste buds!

• Dairy-Free: Omit parmesan cheese for a light, vegan-friendly option. You can also try adding avocado for creamy richness.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or thinly sliced jalapeños to add a bit of heat. This twist elevates your salad to new flavor heights.
• Protein-Packed: Toss in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu to make this salad a satisfying main dish. It transforms a lovely side into a filling meal!
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil, mint, or cilantro to enhance the flavor profile. A handful of herbs brings a refreshing lift to your dish.
• Nutty Variation: Substitute almonds or walnuts for pistachios. Their distinct flavors change the salad s character while still keeping that crunchy delight!
• Dress It Different: Experiment with different vinaigrette flavors, such as balsamic or a honey mustard dressing. Each choice will give your salad a unique twist.
• Fruit Boost: Add seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches for a sweet contrast. This extra layer of flavor will brighten each bite and reflect spring s sweetness.
• Roasted Veggies: Try using roasted asparagus or zucchini instead of fresh ones for a deeper, caramelized flavor. Warm roasted vegetables create a cozy feel perfect for cooler days.

Let these variations inspire you to make this salad your own happy cooking!

Make Ahead Options

These vibrant Spring Vegetable Salad with Pistachios can be a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can prep the freshly chopped asparagus, sugar snap peas, radishes, and green onions up to 2 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them crisp. The garlicky lemon Dijon vinaigrette can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 1 week keep it sealed in a jar to maintain its zingy flavor. When you re ready to serve, simply toss the prepped veggies with baby spinach and pistachios, drizzle with the vinaigrette, and enjoy a delightful, restaurant-quality salad in minutes!

What to Serve with Spring Vegetable Salad?

Looking to create a delightful meal that perfectly accompanies your vibrant Spring Vegetable Salad?

• Grilled Chicken: Juicy, seasoned chicken adds protein while its subtle flavors complement the salad s fresh ingredients.
• Quinoa Pilaf: Light and nutty, quinoa elevates the meal with added texture and heartiness, making it filling yet healthy.
• Herbed Flatbread: Warm, soft flatbreads infused with herbs provide a wonderful contrast to the crispness of the salad, perfect for dipping.
• Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Tender shrimp sautéed in garlic and lemon echoes the zesty notes of the salad, enhancing every bite.
• Creamy Avocado Toast: Rich avocado spread on crusty bread is indulgent yet refreshing, harmonizing with the salad s lightness.
• Sparkling Lemonade: A bubbly, citrusy drink that brings a fun and refreshing touch to your meal, matching the salad s bright flavors beautifully.
• Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light chocolate mousse offers a sweet contrast to the refreshing salad, ensuring a perfect finish.
• Pineapple Sorbet: A fruity, icy dessert that cleanses the palate and provides a sweet, tangy finale to complement the meal.

How to Store and Freeze Spring Vegetable Salad

Fridge: Store your assembled Spring Vegetable Salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the vinaigrette separate until ready to serve to maintain the crispness of the veggies.

Vinaigrette Storage: The garlicky lemon Dijon vinaigrette stays fresh in the fridge for up to 1 week. Keep it in an airtight container to preserve its vibrant flavors.

Freezer: It s best not to freeze the salad once assembled due to the delicate texture of fresh vegetables. However, you can freeze the vinaigrette for up to 3 months; just thaw it before use.

Reheating: If you ve prepped veggies to use later, simply toss them into a salad or stir-fry without reheating, preserving their freshness and crunch.

Spring Vegetable Salad with Pistachios, Parmesan, & Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs

How do I select fresh asparagus for my salad?
Absolutely! When choosing asparagus, look for vibrant green stalks with tightly closed tips. Avoid any that appear limp or have dark spots all over, as these can indicate age. Fresh asparagus should feel firm when held and should snap easily when bent.

How long can I store the Spring Vegetable Salad in the fridge?
You can store your assembled Spring Vegetable Salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. However, I recommend keeping the vinaigrette separate until serving to ensure the veggies stay crisp and fresh. The vinaigrette itself can last up to 1 week in the fridge if stored properly.

Can I freeze the Spring Vegetable Salad?
It s best not to freeze the whole salad due to the delicate textures of fresh vegetables, which can become mushy when thawed. That said, you can freeze the Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette for up to 3 months. Just pour it into an airtight container, leaving a little space for expansion, and thaw it in the fridge when ready to enjoy!

What if my vegetables wilt after being stored?
Very! If you notice your veggies starting to wilt, it s likely due to excessive moisture. To avoid this, ensure they are completely dry before storing, and consider using paper towels in the container. In case they do wilt a bit, you can revive them by soaking the veggies in ice water for about 10-15 minutes. This often brings back their crispiness.

Are there any dietary concerns regarding this salad recipe?
Indeed! This Spring Vegetable Salad is vegetarian, and I often recommend it as gluten-free. However, watch out for allergies related to nuts; the pistachios can pose a risk for those with nut allergies. Feel free to substitute the pistachios with toasted sunflower seeds for crunch if needed or omit them entirely!