Blackberry & Avocado Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette

Hey there, friends! Today, I’m excited to share one of my all-time favorite recipes that captures the essence of summer in a bowl: Blackberry & Avocado Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette. Picture this: a lazy Sunday afternoon, the family gathered around the table, and a fresh, vibrant salad that brings everyone together. This salad is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a beautiful addition to any family meal. With its fresh ingredients and tangy vinaigrette, it’s the perfect companion for those warm days when you want something light yet satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this Blackberry & Avocado Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette. Here are just a few:

• Quick and Easy: This salad takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute family gathering. The simplicity of the steps ensures you spend more time enjoying the meal rather than preparing it.
• Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with vitamins, healthy fats, and antioxidants, it’s a guilt-free pleasure that leaves you feeling good. The combination of fresh fruits and vegetables ensures you’re getting a range of nutrients in every bite.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of flavors and textures appeals to both kids and adults, making it a hit at any family dinner. You might even find picky eaters reaching for seconds!
• Beautiful Presentation: With its vibrant colors, this salad is a showstopper that adds a touch of elegance to your table. Perfect for impressing guests without the fuss.
• Versatile: Whether you pair it with grilled chicken or enjoy it on its own, this salad is adaptable to any meal. Feel free to experiment with different proteins or additional vegetables based on your preferences.

The Recipe

Before we dive into the step-by-step process, let’s lay out everything you need for this delightful dish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (for toasting nuts)
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 250 per serving

Ingredients

• 5 oz mixed greens or baby spinach
• 1/2 avocado, sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh blackberries
• 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (raw or pickled)
• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
• 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

For the Vinaigrette:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey
• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of honey, 1/2 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until emulsified. This dressing is light, tangy, and just sweet enough to complement the salad beautifully. The mustard acts as an emulsifier, helping the oil and lemon juice blend together smoothly.

2. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl or on a platter, layer 5 ounces of mixed greens, sliced avocado, fresh blackberries, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted pecans. Don’t worry about making it perfect—this salad is all about the rustic, natural look. The varying textures and colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

3. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the honey lemon vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. This ensures that every bite is perfectly flavored. Toss gently to distribute the dressing evenly without bruising the delicate greens.

4. Finish and Serve: Top with freshly cracked black pepper and serve immediately. Enjoy the delightful combination of creamy, crunchy, and juicy elements that make this salad so special. The pepper adds a subtle heat that balances the sweetness of the blackberries and honey.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To whip up this salad, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:

• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for tossing the salad.
• Whisk or Fork: For mixing the vinaigrette. A fork works just fine if you don’t have a whisk; just be sure to mix vigorously.
• Knife and Cutting Board: To slice the avocado and onion. A sharp knife will make slicing easier and safer.
• Small Pan: For toasting the pecans or walnuts. Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and brings out a rich, nutty aroma.

These tools are staples in every kitchen, making this recipe accessible for everyone.

The Benefits of Each Ingredient

Every ingredient in this Blackberry & Avocado Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette plays a crucial role. Here’s why:

• Mixed Greens/Baby Spinach: These leafy greens are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, providing a nutritious base for the salad. They offer a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.
• Avocado: Rich in healthy fats, avocados add creaminess and help keep you full longer. They are also a good source of potassium and fiber, making them a heart-healthy choice.
• Blackberries: These juicy berries are high in antioxidants, adding natural sweetness. Their tartness pairs well with the creamy avocado and tangy cheese.
• Red Onion: Offers a sharp flavor contrast and is a source of vitamin C. If you find raw onion too strong, try soaking the slices in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.
• Goat Cheese/Feta: Adds a tangy creaminess and boosts calcium intake. Both cheeses provide a salty, tangy flavor that enhances the fruitiness of the blackberries.
• Pecans/Walnuts: Toasted nuts add a delightful crunch and are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. They also introduce a rich, buttery flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Honey Lemon Vinaigrette: This simple dressing ties all the flavors together with its sweet and tangy notes. The honey balances the acidity of the lemon, while the mustard adds depth and a hint of spice.

What to Serve With This Salad

This Blackberry & Avocado Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette is incredibly versatile. Here are a few pairing suggestions to complete your meal:

• Grilled Chicken: Adds protein and complements the salad’s fresh flavors. The smokiness from the grill enhances the salad’s vibrant taste.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover vinaigrette. A slice of warm, rustic bread can turn this salad into a satisfying meal.
• White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the salad’s citrusy notes. Its acidity can enhance the salad’s flavors without overpowering them.

For more inspiration, consider trying my Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken or Rustic Tomato Soup to round out your meal. Both options provide additional layers of flavor and texture that harmonize beautifully with the salad.

Storage & Leftover Tips

Leftovers are rare with this salad, but if you do have some, here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerate: Store the salad and vinaigrette separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. This keeps the ingredients fresh and prevents the greens from wilting too quickly.
• To Avoid Sogginess: Keep the dressing on the side until you’re ready to eat. This prevents the greens from wilting and ensures they retain their crispness.
• Refreshing the Salad: If the salad seems a bit flat the next day, add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten it up. You can also toss in a few fresh blackberries or a sprinkle of cheese to revive the flavors.

For more tips on how to keep your salads fresh, check out this helpful guide.

And there you have it, a delightful Blackberry & Avocado Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. This dish is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you’re enjoying a lazy afternoon with family or hosting a gathering, this salad is a surefire way to bring people together around the table. Remember, the best meals are those shared with loved ones. Happy cooking, friends!

Print