When it comes to crafting the perfect salad, the combination of fresh ingredients and a balanced dressing is key.
Our Blackberry, Avocado & Arugula Salad has been a fan favorite on our website for years, and it’s easy to see why.
This vibrant and nutritious salad combines a variety of flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or a side dish for dinner, this salad is sure to impress.
Ingredients
To make this delightful salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 5 cups arugula
- 1 cup blackberries
- ¾ cup blueberries
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 ½ cups cucumber, sliced thinly
- ⅓ cup feta cheese
- ⅓ cup toasted hazelnuts
For the vinaigrette:
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (or other liquid sweetener)
- 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh mint
- ¾ tsp salt
- Pepper to taste
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients.
Make sure the arugula is fresh and thoroughly washed.
Rinse the blackberries and blueberries under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Dice the avocado into small, bite-sized pieces.
Slice the cucumber thinly, preferably using a mandoline for uniform slices.
Toast the hazelnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are golden and fragrant.
Allow them to cool before adding them to the salad.
Step 2: Making the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh mint, ¾ teaspoon of salt, and pepper to taste.
Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning as desired.
If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a bit more maple syrup.
For more tang, increase the lime juice.
Step 3: Assembling the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the arugula, blackberries, blueberries, diced avocado, and sliced cucumber.
Gently toss the ingredients together to distribute them evenly.
Sprinkle the feta cheese and toasted hazelnuts over the top.
Step 4: Adding the Vinaigrette
Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad.
Use a light hand initially, as you can always add more dressing if needed.
Toss the salad gently to ensure all the ingredients are coated with the vinaigrette.
Be careful not to mash the avocado or crush the berries while tossing.
Enjoying Your Salad
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so if you’re preparing it ahead of time, wait to add the dressing and avocado until just before serving.
This ensures that the avocado remains vibrant and the salad doesn’t become soggy.
Tips for a Perfect Salad
- Choose ripe avocados: A ripe avocado should yield slightly to gentle pressure. If it’s too firm, it will be difficult to dice, and if it’s too soft, it may become mushy in the salad.
- Use fresh berries: Fresh blackberries and blueberries add a burst of flavor and juiciness to the salad. Frozen berries can be used in a pinch, but they may release more juice and alter the texture of the salad.
- Toast the hazelnuts: Toasting the hazelnuts enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the salad. Make sure to let them cool before adding them to the salad to avoid wilting the arugula.
Nutritional Benefits
This Blackberry, Avocado & Arugula Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Arugula is a leafy green rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and it has a peppery flavor that adds a unique taste to the salad.
Blackberries and blueberries are loaded with antioxidants, which are essential for protecting your cells from damage.
Avocado is a great source of healthy fats, which are important for heart health and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Cucumber adds hydration and a refreshing crunch, while feta cheese provides a tangy flavor and a dose of calcium.
Toasted hazelnuts contribute healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making this salad a well-rounded and nutritious option.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about salads is their versatility. Here are a few ideas to customize this salad to your taste:
- Substitute the greens: If you’re not a fan of arugula, try using spinach, mixed greens, or kale instead. Each will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the salad.
- Change the cheese: If feta isn’t your favorite, you can use goat cheese, blue cheese, or even crumbled gorgonzola for a different flavor profile.
- Try different nuts: While toasted hazelnuts add a wonderful flavor, you can also use toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
- Add more fruit: If you love the fruity aspect of this salad, consider adding slices of strawberries or segments of mandarin oranges.
- Make it a meal: To turn this salad into a main dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a boost of protein.
Conclusion
This Blackberry, Avocado & Arugula Salad is a testament to how simple, fresh ingredients can come together to create something truly special.
The combination of flavors and textures makes every bite a delight, and the vibrant colors make it as visually appealing as it is tasty.
Perfect for a summer meal or as a fresh addition to any spread, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
So, gather your ingredients, whip up the vinaigrette, and enjoy this refreshing and nutritious salad today!