For this vibrant salad, here’s what you’ll need:
- 5 oz mixed greens or baby spinach
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh blackberries
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (pickled or raw)
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans (or walnuts)
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
For the Honey Lemon Vinaigrette:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create your salad:
- Step 1: Begin by making the vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well emulsified.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, layer the mixed greens or baby spinach as a base.
- Step 3: Add the sliced avocado, fresh blackberries, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled cheese, and toasted pecans on top of the greens.
- Step 4: Drizzle the honey lemon vinaigrette over the salad, ensuring even coverage.
- Step 5: Finally, finish with a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper for that extra flavor.
- Step 6: Serve immediately, plating in individual bowls or a large serving dish for sharing.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to dress the salad right before serving to maintain the freshness and texture of the greens.
2. What other fruits can I use in this salad?
You can experiment with other berries such as raspberries or strawberries, or even add apple slices for additional crunch and sweetness.
3. Can I make the vinaigrette without honey?
Absolutely! You could substitute agave syrup or simply omit it for a lower sugar version while still enjoying the zesty flavor.
4. How can I store the leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the salad without dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days.
5. Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
To make it vegan, you can replace the honey with maple syrup or agave and use vegan cheese or omit the cheese altogether.
Conclusion
The Blackberry & Avocado Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette is more than just a salad; it’s a beautiful representation of fresh ingredients dancing in your mouth. Its flavors and textures come together to create a dish that is not only nutritious but also bursting with personality. Serve it at gatherings or enjoy it for lunch—either way, it’s sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy this delightful, easy-to-make salad and nourish your body with every tasty bite!