4 Spring Salad Ideas

In New England, April has arrived. Meaning: it's still wicked cold and rainy. 'Round here' we are longing for a taste of spring right about now. The experts promise next week will be warmer, so I planted my lettuce and arugula in hopes of an early harvest. As my friend Lee says, "It's Connecticut, you don't like the weather?  Wait five minutes." Here are four surprisingly simple and colorful salad ideas that will help remind you that spring actually is here. (If you're lucky enough to be in a warm part of the world, then you can celebrate that you already have spring!)

Asparagus Vinaigrette with Walnut Oil and Orange Zest

Top fresh spring asparagus with a nutty oil and bright orange zest for a refreshing dish. 

Simple Red and Green Salad with Creamy Tarragon-Mustard Dressing

Tarragon is a great spring and summer herb that provides a spicy addition to the dressing. 

Mesclun Salad with Olive Vinaigrette

A simple salad that gains a boost of flavor with Kalamata olives.

Sweet Corn and Baby Arugula Salad with Lemon and Shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano

A light salad that works perfectly as an appetizer or alongside grilled fish or meats.