This salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The sweet blackberries and creamy avocado pair beautifully with the crispy arugula. Each bite is fresh and full of life. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This salad shines with its vibrant colors and amazing taste. It’s easy to make and packed with healthy ingredients. It’s great for families or anyone who loves fresh food. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy seasonal fruits. You can have it ready in no time, making it a perfect choice for busy days.
How to Prepare Blackberry, Avocado, and Arugula Salad
Making this salad is simple and quick. You’ll toss together fresh fruits and veggies for a delicious meal. The homemade vinaigrette brings everything together nicely. This recipe is perfect for beginners!
What You Need
- 5 cups arugula
- 1 cup blackberries
- ¾ cup blueberries
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1½ cups cucumber, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup feta cheese (use vegan feta for a dairy-free option)
- ⅓ cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil (for the vinaigrette)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (for the vinaigrette)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or other liquid sweetener like agave or honey) (for the vinaigrette)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint (for the vinaigrette)
- ¾ teaspoon salt (for the vinaigrette)
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste (for the vinaigrette)
Cooking Steps
- In a small bowl, whisk together all the vinaigrette ingredients until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- In a large bowl, combine the arugula, blackberries, blueberries, cucumber, avocado, feta cheese, and toasted hazelnuts.
- Drizzle the lime mint vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This salad is perfect on its own or served alongside grilled chicken or fish. It can also be a fantastic side dish for a summer barbecue. Feel free to sprinkle some extra nuts or cheese on top for added flavor.
How to Store Blackberry, Avocado, and Arugula Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best to eat it within a day for the freshest taste. If you have leftover vinaigrette, keep it separate to avoid soggy greens. Unfortunately, this salad doesn’t freeze well, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Best Tips for Blackberry, Avocado, and Arugula Salad
- Use ripe avocados for a creamy texture.
- Toast hazelnuts briefly to enhance their flavor.
- You can swap arugula for spinach if you prefer a milder taste.
- Add grilled chicken for extra protein.
- Make the vinaigrette a few hours ahead to let the flavors meld.
- Adjust the sweetness of the vinaigrette to match your taste.
- If you must store it, keep ingredients separate until ready to serve.
- For a spice kick, sprinkle some chili flakes on top.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Add crumbled goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Swap blackberries with strawberries for a different fruit flavor.
- Include grilled shrimp for a hearty meal.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead. Just keep the vinaigrette separate until you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze the salad?
No, salads with fresh greens don’t freeze well. It’s best to enjoy it fresh.
What if I can’t find hazelnuts?
You can use any type of nuts, like almonds or walnuts, for the crunch.
How do I keep leftovers fresh?
Store your salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day.
What are some good sides to serve with this salad?
Grilled chicken or fish go well with this salad. You can also serve some crusty bread on the side.
Blackberry, Avocado, and Arugula Salad
Ingredients
Salad ingredients
- 5 cups arugula
- 1 cup blackberries
- ¾ cup blueberries
- 1 medium avocado, diced Use ripe avocados for a creamy texture.
- 1½ cups cucumber, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup feta cheese Use vegan feta for a dairy-free option.
- ⅓ cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped Toast hazelnuts briefly to enhance their flavor.
Vinaigrette ingredients
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup Or other liquid sweetener like agave or honey.
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl, whisk together all the vinaigrette ingredients until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- In a large bowl, combine the arugula, blackberries, blueberries, cucumber, avocado, feta cheese, and toasted hazelnuts.
- Drizzle the lime mint vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.
