Description
A vibrant and refreshing Mixed Green Salad with Berries, featuring a medley of fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, crisp apples, red onions, candied pecans, and tangy feta cheese. This salad is complemented by a creamy, homemade strawberry poppy seed dressing that adds a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, making it an ideal light meal or side dish suitable for spring and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 10 cups mixed greens lettuce (red lettuce, romaine, spinach, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1 sweet apple, chopped
- 1 cup candied pecans
- 1/3 cup feta cheese crumbles
Dressing Ingredients
- 5.3 ounces strawberry yogurt
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 small piece red onion (for blending)
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: Add strawberry yogurt, mayonnaise, red onion, milk, granulated sugar, and apple cider vinegar to a blender. Blend until completely smooth, creating a creamy base for your dressing.
- Adjust the Flavor: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning by adding more vinegar for tanginess, extra sugar for sweetness, or additional mayo and milk for creaminess as desired. Stir in poppy seeds to finish. Refrigerate the dressing for up to 2 weeks if making ahead.
- Make Candied Pecans: If you do not have store-bought candied pecans, prepare them using your preferred method and allow them to cool completely before adding to the salad.
- Prepare the Produce: Wash and dry all berries thoroughly. Slice the strawberries, dice the red onion, and chop the apple to ensure fresh and crisp salad components.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the mixed greens. Layer the strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, diced red onion, chopped apple, candied pecans, and feta cheese crumbles on top. Reserve a small amount of each topping to sprinkle on at the end for a professional and attractive presentation.
- Toss and Serve: Drizzle the desired amount of creamy poppy seed dressing over the salad. Toss gently until all ingredients are well combined. Garnish with the reserved toppings and serve immediately to enjoy maximum freshness and flavor.
Notes
- The dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 weeks for convenience.
- If making candied pecans at home, allow them to cool fully to maintain the salad’s texture.
- Use fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor and presentation.
- Adjust sweetness and tanginess of the dressing to your personal taste.
- For a nut-free version, omit the candied pecans or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
