This vibrant spring salad combines the sweet, tangy flavors of mandarin oranges with the earthy crunch of fresh beets, complemented by a zesty honey chili dressing. It’s a refreshing dish perfect for welcoming the warmer months, incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables that come into season during spring.

Ingredients:

Salad

4 cups mixed spring greens (such as arugula, spinach and watercress)

2 medium beets, peeled and shredded

2 mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented

1 avocado, sliced

½ cup sliced strawberries

¼ cup crumbled feta cheese or a plant-based feta

¼ cup walnuts or pecans, toasted

Fresh herbs (such as mint or basil), for garnish

Honey Chili Dressing

3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

2 Tbsp honey

1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)

½ tsp fine rock salt

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, chili flakes, rock salt and black pepper until well combined. Adjust the chili flakes according to your preferred level of heat. Set aside.

Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed spring greens and shredded beets. Gently toss to mix. Add the mandarin orange segments and sliced strawberries to the bowl. Carefully mix to distribute evenly among the greens. Arrange the sliced avocado on top of the salad. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and toasted walnuts or pecans for a nice crunch.

Dress the salad: Drizzle the prepared honey chili dressing over the salad. Use as much or as little as you prefer. Gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are lightly coated with the dressing.

Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs such as mint or basil for an additional burst of flavor and a pop of color. Serve immediately, offering extra dressing on the side for those who might enjoy a little extra zing.

Recipes and photos by Rev. Dr. Jessica Scofield-Chichester, a visionary and the founder and CEO of Haute Healing Oasis who brings more than 25 years of experience in health, wellness and spiritual science to her role. Beyond her extensive background, Jessica is also a food archaeologist gearing up to release an allergen-friendly cookbook. Connect at 203-595-5304 or HauteHealingOasis.com.