When I think of summer, I picture vibrant gatherings filled with laughter, friends, and of course, delicious food. A blueberry summer salad is the perfect dish for those sunny days, evoking images of picnic blankets on the grass and barbecue grills sending out tantalizing aromas.
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or even just a simple baguette. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a go-to recipe for those outdoor occasions.
What is Blueberry Summer Salad?
At its core, blueberry summer salad is a fresh and vibrant mix of greens, blueberries, nuts, and a zesty dressing. It’s not just a salad; it’s a medley of flavors and textures. The juicy burst of blueberries dances with the crispness of cucumbers and the richness of avocado, creating a refreshing dish perfect for summer meals.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
Imagine a bite filled with the sweetness of ripe blueberries, the creaminess of avocado, and a slight crunch from slivered almonds. The dressing adds a zesty kick that ties everything together. The tang from the balsamic vinegar complements the sweet blueberries, while the creaminess from the heavy cream provides a comforting balance. Your taste buds benefit from a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and creamy notes—a delightful explosion of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This?
You’ll love this blueberry summer salad for several reasons:
Bright colors: It’s visually stunning. Every plate will look like a masterpiece!
Easy prep: With straightforward instructions, you can whip this up without breaking a sweat.
Versatility: You can adapt the ingredients based on what you have or prefer.
Nutritious: Packed with healthy ingredients, it’s both satisfying and guilt-free.
Make-ahead: Perfect for those busy days; it keeps well, saving you time.
Ingredients
Before we get our hands dirty, let’s gather what we need:
Salad Ingredients:
- 8 cups mixed spring greens (baby spinach, arugula, or your preferred greens)
- 4 small seedless cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- ⅔ cup slivered almonds
- 4 scallions, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 avocado, sliced
Dressing Ingredients:
- ½ cup cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup aged balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons raw honey
- 2 teaspoons whole-grain Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
Step by Step Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process step-by-step. Trust me, it’s as easy as pie.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing all your fresh produce under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Slice the cucumbers and scallions. Mash the garlic and zest a lemon as these will feature in your dressing.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and heavy cream.
- Add the minced garlic, chives, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Taste it. Adjust the salt or add more honey if you prefer a sweeter dressing. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, combine the spring greens, cucumbers, blueberries, scallions, and slivered almonds.
- Gently toss the ingredients to mix without squishing the blueberries.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Avocado
- Sprinkle the grated Pecorino Romano cheese over the salad.
- Carefully add the sliced avocado, tucking it in around the edges for presentation.
Step 5: Dress and Serve
Drizzle your prepared dressing over the salad. Use just enough to coat the ingredients without drowning them. Toss gently, serve immediately, or let it chill in the fridge for up to 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips & Tricks
To elevate your blueberry summer salad further, consider these handy tips:
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh blueberries and crisp greens make all the difference in flavor and texture.
Make it a meal: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
Customize your nuts: If you’re not a fan of almonds, walnuts or pecans add a fantastic crunch too.
Balance the flavors: Adjust the dressing according to your taste; more honey if you like sweetness, or more mustard for a tangy kick.
Presentation matters: Layer the ingredients rather than mixing them all up. A visual appeal adds to the enjoyment.
Nutrition Information
If you’re curious about the nutritious aspects of this salad, here’s a quick breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: approximately 220
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
This salad serves as a great source of antioxidants via blueberries, healthy fats from avocado, and vitamins from leafy greens.
How Can You Store This Blueberry Summer Salad?
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to store it:
In the fridge: Keep the salad in an airtight container. It’s best eaten within two days, but the salad can get soggy after a day due to the dressing.
Separate the dressing: Store the salad and dressing separately to maintain freshness and crunch. Toss them together just before serving.
What If Some Ingredients Are Not Available in Your Pantry?
Sometimes, you might find your pantry lacking. Here are some alternative choices:
Greens: If you lack spring greens, baby kale offers a sturdy texture and a nutritious punch. Another great option is mixed lettuce, which can provide a crisp base.
Cheese: Running low on Pecorino Romano? Feta cheese provides a similar creamy element with a tangy bite that complements the sweetness of the blueberries.
Nuts: If slivered almonds are a no-show, opt for toasted sunflower seeds. They add crunch and are great for nut allergies.
Conclusion
A blueberry summer salad brings a burst of freshness to any table. With its vibrant colors and delightful flavors, it’s easy to see why this dish is a summer essential. Easy to make, full of nutrients, and endlessly customizable, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
So, let’s get chopping, mixing, and tossing to create a dish that’s not just good to eat, but a joy to behold. You won’t just enjoy it; you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds—guaranteed! Here’s to summer meals that are bright, fresh, and filled with flavor. Just remember to smile and savor the moments around the table!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
Blueberry Summer Salad – Quick Delicious Meals
Blueberries, often dubbed "superfruits," are not just good for our health; they also jazz up our meals. This summer salad showcases their delightful sweetness combined with crunchy greens and a creamy dressing that elevates the dish. I can’t remember the last barbecue where this salad didn’t steal the spotlight.
So, let’s dive into what makes this blueberry summer salad a star player at any gathering!
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients:
Dressing Ingredients:
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
-
Start by washing all your fresh produce under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Slice the cucumbers and scallions. Mash the garlic and zest a lemon as these will feature in your dressing.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
-
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and heavy cream.
- Add the minced garlic, chives, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Taste it. Adjust the salt or add more honey if you prefer a sweeter dressing. Set aside.
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and heavy cream.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
-
- In a large salad bowl, combine the spring greens, cucumbers, blueberries, scallions, and slivered almonds.
- Gently toss the ingredients to mix without squishing the blueberries.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the spring greens, cucumbers, blueberries, scallions, and slivered almonds.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Avocado
-
- Sprinkle the grated Pecorino Romano cheese over the salad.
- Carefully add the sliced avocado, tucking it in around the edges for presentation.
- Sprinkle the grated Pecorino Romano cheese over the salad.
Step 5: Dress and Serve
-
Drizzle your prepared dressing over the salad. Use just enough to coat the ingredients without drowning them. Toss gently, serve immediately, or let it chill in the fridge for up to 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 220kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Saturated Fat 3g15%
- Total Carbohydrate 18g6%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 6g12%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh blueberries and crisp greens make all the difference in flavor and texture.
- Make it a meal: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Customize your nuts: If you’re not a fan of almonds, walnuts or pecans add a fantastic crunch too.
- Balance the flavors: Adjust the dressing according to your taste; more honey if you like sweetness, or more mustard for a tangy kick.
- Presentation matters: Layer the ingredients rather than mixing them all up. A visual appeal adds to the enjoyment.
