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This vibrant Superfood Berry Salad is my go to when I need something nourishing and fresh but only have a few minutes to spare. The burst of sweet berries with creamy lemon herb dressing always livens up any meal or picnic and it is just as much at home on a holiday table as it is for a weekday lunch.
I pulled this salad together for a spring party and it disappeared in record time even among friends who claim not to love greens. Now it is my standby for any potluck or brunch.
Ingredients
- Super greens mix: contains baby spinach arugula Swiss chard chicory cabbage and brussel sprouts for a range of nutrients and flavors picking a fresh prewashed bag saves so much time
- Kale: brings even more nutrients and texture look for leaves with tight curls and a deep green color
- Strawberries: give juicy sweetness choose ripe berries with bright red color and no mushy spots
- Blackberries: add tart notes plump and shiny is ideal
- Blueberries: offer antioxidant punch smaller berries often mean sweeter favors
- Shelled pistachios: provide crunch and a lovely buttery taste buy roasted for extra flavor
- Pepitas: pumpkin seeds for an earthy bite and added protein raw or toasted both work great
- Blueberry goat cheese: is tangy creamy and the blueberry swirl stands out if you cannot find it any good goat cheese is perfect
- Plain Greek yogurt: forms the creamy base for the dressing full fat or nonfat both work but go for unsweetened and tang free
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice: brightens and brings zest to the dressing
- Mustard: brings a gentle tang and binds the dressing Dijon is my favorite here
- Extra virgin olive oil: adds richness aim for a bottle that smells grassy and fresh
- Fresh mint leaves: make the dressing sing use leaves that are vibrant and not wilted
- Fresh parsley: brings brightness flat leaf is best for flavor
- Fresh oregano: gives an herbal edge if you do not have fresh dried can be used but reduce the amount
- Coarse salt and ground black pepper: finish everything perfectly taste and adjust as you go
Step by Step Instructions
- Make the Dressing:
- Blend Greek yogurt lemon juice mustard olive oil mint parsley oregano salt and pepper in a blender or food processor Blend until completely smooth and green taste and adjust the salt and lemon to your liking The dressing should be creamy but pourable
- Prepare the Salad Base:
- Add super greens mix kale strawberries blackberries blueberries pistachios and pepitas to your largest bowl Gently fluff with clean hands or tongs to mix evenly The variety of colors will be striking
- Dress and Toss:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together so the greens are lightly coated but not soggy Stop and taste at this stage to see if you want more lemon or salt
- Add Cheese and Finish:
- Sprinkle crumbled blueberry goat cheese all over the top If you like extra pepitas or pistachios add those now Finish with a few extra grinds of black pepper just before serving
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The fresh mint in the dressing has become my favorite part it totally transforms the yogurt and adds a layer of brightness I never skip it My little one once helped me wash the berries for this salad and now she always asks for extra goat cheese on her portion
Storage Tips
This salad is best eaten fresh but if you want to prepare ahead you can toss the greens fruit nuts and seeds and keep in the fridge for up to two days Keep the dressing and cheese separate and mix in right before serving to avoid sogginess If you have leftovers only add dressing to the portion you will eat
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to substitute any super greens mix you like romaine or baby kale also work Nuts can be swapped for walnuts or almonds and pepitas can be left out or replaced with sunflower seeds No fresh herbs Use a smaller amount of dried but the result will be a bit less vibrant As for cheese feta works in a pinch
Serving Suggestions
This salad works well as a light lunch or dinner topped with grilled chicken salmon or chickpeas At my house it also makes a show stopping side for Easter brunch or a bright contrast to heavier dishes in winter For a fun touch try serving in individual jars for picnics
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A Bit of History
Composed salads like this one have a long tradition in French and Mediterranean cooking using the best produce of the season and plenty of fresh herbs With its mix of greens berries nuts and creamy cheese this salad takes inspiration from both classic bistro salads and modern superfood bowls
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What greens can I use besides super greens mix?
You can use any combination of baby spinach, arugula, kale, chard, or even romaine. Feel free to customize based on availability.
- → Can I substitute the blueberry goat cheese?
Yes, regular goat cheese or feta both work well for a creamy, tangy addition.
- → Is it possible to make the dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! The lemon herb dressing can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored in the fridge.
- → Which berries pair best in this salad?
Strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries offer a sweet, tart combination, but raspberries can also be added based on taste preferences.
- → How do I keep the greens crisp?
Mix in the dressing only just before serving, and use freshly rinsed, well-dried greens for the best texture.