This salad pairs plump, juicy blueberries with crisp greens, creamy cheese, and crunchy nuts, all tossed in a tangy homemade dressing. It’s simple to make but tastes like something from a café.
🛒 What You’ll Need
Salad:
- 6 cups baby spinach (or mixed greens)
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup sliced strawberries (optional for extra color)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese)
- ½ cup toasted pecans (or walnuts)
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or raspberry vinegar)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Pinch of salt & pepper
👩🍳 Pro Tips
- Toast nuts in a dry skillet for 3–4 minutes to bring out their flavor.
- Make dressing in advance so flavors meld together.
- Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.
- Swap feta for blue cheese for a bolder flavor.
- For meal prep, store dressing separately until ready to serve.
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
- Large salad bowl
- Small mixing bowl (for dressing)
- Whisk
- Cutting board & knife
🔄 Substitutions & Variations
- Use arugula for a peppery bite.
- Add grilled chicken for protein.
- Replace pecans with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
⏱️ Make Ahead Tips
- Wash and dry greens in advance.
- Slice onions and toast nuts ahead of time.
- Mix dressing up to 3 days before serving.
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine baby spinach, blueberries, strawberries, red onion, feta, and pecans.
Step 3: Toss and Serve
Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Best enjoyed fresh.
- If storing, keep dressing separate and refrigerate salad for up to 1 day.
💬 Final Thoughts
This Blueberry Salad is crisp, colorful, and bursting with flavor—it’s the kind of salad that makes you want to eat your greens. Whether you serve it as a side dish or add grilled chicken for a main course, it’s a refreshing hit every time.
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