Name: Summer Berry Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Mixed Greens: 6 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine); Berries: 1 cup sliced strawberries, 1/2 cup blueberries, 1/2 cup raspberries; Cheese and Nuts: 1/3 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese, 1/4 cup candied pecans or walnuts; Red Onion: 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced; Dressing: 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, Salt and black pepper to taste

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There are few joys quite like digging into a bowl of Summer Berry Salad on a sunlit day—a dazzling mix of tender greens, juicy fresh berries, creamy cheese crumbles, and crunchy candied nuts, all tossed in a lively balsamic dressing. This vibrant salad captures the very essence of the season, balancing sweet and savory with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, serving brunch, or just looking for a perk-me-up for lunch, the Summer Berry Salad promises not just color and flavor, but a moment of pure happiness at your table.

Summer Berry Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts about this Summer Berry Salad is how each ingredient brings something special to the table. The simplicity here lets every flavor and texture stand out, coming together into a truly memorable salad you’ll want to make all season long.

Mixed greens (6 cups): A trio of spinach, arugula, and romaine for a tender, slightly peppery, and hearty base.
Sliced strawberries (1 cup): Sweet, juicy slices that deliver that unmistakable taste of summer.
Blueberries (1/2 cup): Plump bursts of flavor that add color and a hint of tartness.
Raspberries (1/2 cup): Delicate and tangy, these brighten every forkful.
Crumbled feta or goat cheese (1/3 cup): Pick your favorite—either way, you’ll get a creamy contrast to the fruit.
Candied pecans or walnuts (1/4 cup): Sweet, crunchy nuts that elevate the salad with texture and rich flavor.
Red onion, thinly sliced (1/4 small): Adds a subtle bite that plays beautifully with the berries’ sweetness.
Olive oil (1/4 cup): Forms the rich, silky base for the dressing.
Balsamic vinegar (2 tablespoons): Provides tang and depth to the vinaigrette.
Honey (1 tablespoon): Balances the vinegar with a gentle sweetness.
Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Gives the dressing a little sharpness and helps emulsify.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

How to Make Summer Berry Salad

Step 1: Toss the Greens and Toppings

Start by reaching for your largest salad bowl—you’re going to want plenty of space to mix without bruising those beautiful berries. Add the mixed greens first, followed by fresh sliced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, thin slivers of red onion, crumbled feta or goat cheese, and a scattering of candied nuts. The goal here is to layer the ingredients gently so every bite is a perfect combination of fruit, crunch, and creamy cheese.

Step 2: Whisk Up the Dressing

In a separate small bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, pour in the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, a dash of salt, and a twist or two of fresh cracked black pepper. Whisk it vigorously (or shake the jar like you mean it!) until the dressing is thoroughly combined and lightly thickened. This step is key—the dressing should look glossy and slightly creamy, with flecks of mustard throughout.

Step 3: Dress and Toss Just Before Serving

When you’re ready to serve, drizzle the fresh vinaigrette over the salad. Using clean hands or big salad tongs, toss everything together ever-so-gently, just enough to lightly coat the greens and let the dressing mingle with the berries and cheese. Serve your Summer Berry Salad immediately so everything stays crisp and vibrant.

How to Serve Summer Berry Salad

Garnishes

For the perfect finishing touch, shower the salad with a few extra berries or a little more cheese right before it hits the table. A light sprinkle of fresh herbs (like mint or basil) can add a new layer of flavor and make the dish absolutely photo-worthy. If you love a hint of citrus, zest a little lemon or orange on top for a sparkling burst of aroma.

Side Dishes

The beauty of Summer Berry Salad is how well it pairs with just about anything. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp for a wholesome meal, or add a loaf of crusty bread and a cool glass of lemonade for a fuss-free lunch. It’s also perfect as a picnic side, sharing the spotlight with sandwiches, quiche, or any backyard barbecue fare.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your Summer Berry Salad into an eye-catching centerpiece by piling it high on a big platter instead of a bowl, arranging the berries in clusters for a pop-art effect. You can also serve the salad in individual mason jars for picnics or order-at-the-table brunches—guests will love the layered look, and it’s ultra-portable! For a fun twist, try serving on skewers or in lettuce cups for easy, hand-held bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the undressed salad and vinaigrette in separate airtight containers in the fridge. This helps keep the greens crisp and prevents the berries from turning soggy. The salad will stay fresh for up to 2 days—after that, the greens may start to wilt.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t ideal for Summer Berry Salad, as the delicate berries and greens lose their texture and fresh flavor after thawing. Instead, if you have an abundance of berries, consider freezing them separately to use in smoothies or baking later on.

Reheating

Since this salad is meant to be served fresh and chilled, reheating isn’t necessary. If you’re planning to add protein like grilled chicken or salmon, simply reheat those toppings separately and add to the cold salad just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use different berries in my Summer Berry Salad?

Absolutely! The beauty of this dish is its flexibility—feel free to swap in blackberries, pomegranate seeds, or even sliced stone fruits if they’re in season. It’s a fun way to keep the Summer Berry Salad feeling new every time you make it.

What’s the best cheese for this salad?

Both feta and goat cheese work wonderfully, offering tangy creaminess that balances the sweet berries. If you love a stronger flavor, try blue cheese crumbles or for a milder touch, even shaved parmesan fits beautifully.

Can I make Summer Berry Salad ahead of time?

You can prep all the ingredients and the dressing in advance, but wait to combine and dress the salad until just before serving. This keeps the greens crisp and the berries juicy, rather than soggy.

Is this recipe gluten-free and vegetarian?

Yes, Summer Berry Salad in its original form is both gluten-free and vegetarian. Just double-check your candied nuts and cheese for any hidden gluten if you’re serving someone with sensitivities.

How can I add more protein?

To make the salad more satisfying as a main course, top it with grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or even crispy tofu. You can also add extra nuts or toss in some cooked quinoa for more plant-based protein.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about Summer Berry Salad—it’s the kind of dish that brings smiles and a burst of color to any table. Whether you’re making it for a party or just as a treat for yourself, don’t hesitate to give it a try and savor the freshest flavors that summer has to offer!

Summer Berry Salad Recipe

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4.6 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

Enjoy the refreshing flavors of summer with this vibrant and nutritious Summer Berry Salad. A delightful combination of mixed greens, fresh berries, cheese, and nuts tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing.

Ingredients

Mixed Greens:

6 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine);

Berries:

1 cup sliced strawberries, 1/2 cup blueberries, 1/2 cup raspberries;

Cheese and Nuts:

1/3 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese, 1/4 cup candied pecans or walnuts;

Red Onion:

1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced;

Dressing:

1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Prepare Salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, berries, red onion, cheese, and nuts.
Make Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Toss: Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Serve: Enjoy immediately!

Notes

For added protein, top with grilled chicken or salmon.
You can swap in blackberries or pomegranate seeds depending on what’s in season.
This salad is best served fresh and dressed just before eating.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American