Name: Cranberry Blueberry Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 6 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix); 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/3 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (toasted, optional); 1/2 small red onion (thinly sliced); Optional: sliced apple or pear (avocado slices); 1/2 cup fresh blueberries; 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Pinch of salt; Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

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Experience a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors with this Cranberry Blueberry Salad featuring a luscious homemade blueberry balsamic dressing. The combination of sweet blueberries, tart cranberries, and crisp greens creates a delightful medley of textures and tastes. This salad brings elegance to your table whether served as a light lunch or a colorful side dish.

Perfect for any season, this salad balances sweetness, tanginess, and a hint of savory with crumbled cheese and toasted nuts, complemented beautifully by the glossy blueberry balsamic dressing. It’s a fresh way to enjoy nutrient-packed berries in a simple, yet stunning dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh and vibrant mix of berries and greens adds a refreshing burst of flavors.
Homemade blueberry balsamic dressing elevates the salad with a glossy, tangy sweetness.
Quick to assemble yet impressive enough for special occasions or everyday meals.
Versatile ingredients allow customization with protein or extra fruits for a hearty meal.

Ingredients

Mixed salad greens: A blend of 6 cups spinach, arugula, or spring mix forms a crisp and fresh base.
Fresh blueberries: 1 cup of plump, juicy blueberries adds natural sweetness and antioxidants.
Dried cranberries: ½ cup offers a chewy texture with tangy contrast balancing the berries.
Crumbled feta or goat cheese: ⅓ cup for creamy, salty richness that complements the sweet fruits.
Chopped walnuts or pecans: ¼ cup toasted nuts add crunch and a warm, nutty flavor (optional).
Red onion: Thinly slice ½ small onion to introduce a sharp, slightly sweet bite.
Optional add-ins: Sliced apple or pear, avocado slices enhance texture and flavor variety.
Fresh blueberries for dressing: ½ cup provides a vibrant color and natural sweetness to the dressing.
Balsamic vinegar: 3 tablespoons bring tang and depth to the dressing’s flavor profile.
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons for smoothness and healthy fats in the dressing.
Honey or maple syrup: 1 tablespoon balances acidity with natural sweetness; adjust as needed.
Dijon mustard: ½ teaspoon adds subtle sharpness and emulsifies the dressing.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors harmoniously.

Instructions

Prepare the Blueberry Balsamic Dressing: Combine fresh blueberries, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and slightly thick, creating a glossy coating that perfectly balances sweetness and acidity. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess to suit your preference before setting the dressing aside.
Assemble the Fresh Salad Base: In a large salad bowl, place the mixed greens gently as the crisp foundation. Scatter fresh blueberries, dried cranberries, sliced red onion, and toasted nuts evenly over the greens for contrasting colors and textures that make every bite exciting and delightful.
Add the Creamy Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over the salad, introducing a creamy, savory layer that complements the berries’ natural sweetness. The salty cheese adds depth and balances the overall flavor profile.
Dress and Toss Just Before Serving: Drizzle the prepared blueberry balsamic dressing evenly across the salad. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients with the dressing, ensuring each mouthful packs a flavorful punch. Serve immediately to maintain the crispness of the greens and freshness of the berries.

You Must Know

Fresh blueberries bring natural sweetness, while dried cranberries provide a tangy chew for perfect texture balance.
Using goat cheese yields a creamier touch, whereas feta adds a saltier bite—choose based on your taste preference.
Lightly toasting nuts enhances their flavor and adds crunchy contrast, elevating the salad’s appeal.
Adjust dressing thickness by adding a teaspoon or two of water or olive oil for easier pouring if needed.

Storage Tips

Store leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Toss fresh before serving to maintain texture and crispness, as the greens may wilt if dressed too early.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, turkey, or salmon for a balanced and filling meal. Add sliced apple or pear for extra sweetness, or avocado slices for creaminess, tailoring it to your liking.

Professional Tips

Use fresh, high-quality berries for the best vibrant flavor and texture.
Toast nuts gently in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant to boost their nutty aroma without overpowering the salad.
Prepare the dressing ahead of time to allow flavors to meld and intensify before use.

FAQs

Can I use frozen berries for this salad?: Fresh berries are preferred for texture, but you can use thawed frozen berries for the dressing if fresh are unavailable. Avoid using frozen berries in the salad to prevent sogginess.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?: To make it vegan, omit the cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative, and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
How long will the salad stay fresh?: The salad is best consumed immediately but can be stored undressed for up to two days. Keep dressing separate and add just before serving to keep greens crisp.
Can I add protein to make it a main dish?: Absolutely! Adding grilled chicken, turkey, or salmon makes this salad a well-rounded, satisfying main course.
What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?: You can substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but the flavor profile will differ slightly. Adjust the sweetener to balance acidity accordingly.