As I plucked the first ripe blueberries from the bush, a sense of summertime nostalgia washed over me. Nothing says summer quite like a bowl of vibrant, seasonal fruits, and this Cranberry Blueberry Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Dressing captures that essence perfectly. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this refreshing dish, which is not only a quick prep marvel but also a delightful crowd-pleaser for gatherings. With its mix of juicy blueberries, tangy cranberries, and crunchy sunflower seeds, you’ll relish every bite, while the homemade dressing adds a zesty flair that elevates the whole experience. Ready to uncover the secret to a stunning, healthy meal that leaves fast food behind?
Why Is This Salad So Refreshing?
Vibrant Ingredients: The Cranberry Blueberry Salad bursts with the bright colors and flavors of summer. Juicy blueberries and tart cranberries make for a refreshing flavor explosion.
Quick Prep: Whip it up in just 15 minutes, making it the ideal choice for busy days!
Nutritious Choices: Packed with antioxidants and healthy fats from the sunflower seeds, this salad is not just delicious but contributes to your overall wellness.
Versatile Base: Change up the greens or mix in grilled chicken for added protein, making it perfect for any occasion!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a light lunch or a stunning side at gatherings, this salad is sure to impress. If you’re a fan of vibrant summer recipes, you’ll also love our Fall Farro Salad for seasonal inspiration!
Cranberry Blueberry Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Blueberries – Fresh fruit providing sweetness and moisture; substitute with raspberries or blackberries for variety.
• Spring Mix Salad Greens – Base of the salad, adding freshness and crunch; can substitute with spinach, arugula, or any greens on hand.
• English Cucumber – Adds crispness and coolness; other cucumbers can be used, but avoid waxed varieties.
• Mandarin Orange Segments – Introduces a citrus element for brightness; can be replaced with fresh orange or omitted.
• Dried Cranberries – Adds texture and a sweet-tart flavor; substitute with raisins or nuts for different tastes.
• Roasted Unsalted Sunflower Seeds – Offers crunch; can swap with pecans, cashews, or almonds.
For the Blueberry Balsamic Dressing
• Blueberries – Provides flavor and sweetness; integral for the Cranberry Blueberry Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Dressing.
• Balsamic Vinegar – Base of the dressing for acidity.
• Red Wine Vinegar – Adds extra tang.
• Dijon Mustard – Helps emulsify the dressing.
• Honey – Adds sweetness; substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Sea Salt and Black Pepper – Enhances all flavors; adjust as per taste.
• Avocado Oil – Adds healthy fats and richness; olive oil also works well.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Blueberry Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Dressing
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a blender, combine 1 cup of fresh blueberries, ¼ cup of balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of honey, and a pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Blend these ingredients on high for about 30 seconds until smooth. As the blender runs, slowly drizzle in ½ cup of avocado oil to emulsify the dressing into a luscious mixture.
Step 2: Wash the Greens
While the dressing blends, rinse 4 cups of spring mix salad greens under cold water in a colander. Shake off excess water to ensure the greens remain crisp and fresh. After drying, transfer the greens to a large salad bowl, ready to be combined with the other vibrant ingredients for our Cranberry Blueberry Salad.
Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients
Next, chop 1 medium English cucumber and gently fold it into your bowl of fresh greens along with 1 cup of juicy blueberries and ½ cup of dried cranberries. Toss everything together gently to prevent bruising the fruit and greens. This colorful medley is the heart of your Cranberry Blueberry Salad, showcasing a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
After the salad ingredients are mixed, drizzle approximately ½ cup of the homemade blueberry balsamic dressing over the mixture. Use salad tongs or two forks to gently toss the greens, fruit, and dressing together, ensuring every bite is deliciously coated. If desired, taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or dressing as per preference.
Step 5: Add Final Touches
Just before serving, top the salad with 1 cup of mandarin orange segments and ¼ cup of roasted unsalted sunflower seeds for a perfect crunch. These additions will elevate your Cranberry Blueberry Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Dressing, giving it a refreshing burst of citrus along with delightful nutty flavors and a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Blueberry Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Dressing is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the blueberry balsamic dressing up to 4 days in advance and store it in the fridge, just remember to re-emulsify it by shaking before use, as the avocado oil may solidify. The salad ingredients can be prepped up to 24 hours ahead by washing and chopping the salad greens, cucumber, and cranberries; keep them stored separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the ingredients in a bowl, add the dressing, and toss until everything is well coated for a delightful meal that tastes just as fresh as when you made it!
What to Serve with Cranberry Blueberry Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Dressing
Transform your summer meal into a delightful experience with these complementary dishes that enhance the vibrant flavors of your salad.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken adds protein and a smoky flavor, balancing the tartness of the salad beautifully. Serve it sliced on top for a wholesome main course.
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Quinoa Salad: A chilled quinoa salad with herbs provides a nutty flavor and chewy texture. It’s light enough to maintain your salad’s refreshing essence while adding heartiness.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings warmth and caramelized sweetness, making it a comforting side that works harmoniously with the salad’s bright notes.
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Crusty Bread: Serve a loaf of crusty artisan bread on the side for a delightful textural contrast. Perfect for soaking up the blueberry balsamic dressing with every bite!
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Mint Lemonade: Refreshing mint lemonade adds a zingy twist that pairs splendidly with the sweetness of cranberries and blueberries, making it a thirst-quencher on warm days.
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Dark Chocolate Tart: A slice of rich dark chocolate tart provides a decadent finish to your meal. The bittersweet notes create a delightful contrast to the fruity salad, leaving your guests with a sweet memory.
Please note that this salad shines as a standalone dish but shines even brighter with these delicious pairings!
Cranberry Blueberry Salad Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to the recipe with these delightful twists and substitutions. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Vegan Substitute: Use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing for a vegan-friendly option that preserves sweetness.
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Protein Boost: Mix in grilled chicken or chickpeas to transform this salad into a satisfying meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.
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Crunchy Alternatives: Swap sunflower seeds for toasted pecans or walnuts for a nutty flavor that complements the berries beautifully.
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Green Variations: Try using kale or mixed baby greens instead of spring mix for a heartier base that pairs well with the dressing.
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Seasonal Fruits: Add sliced strawberries, chopped apples, or peaches when they’re in season for a refreshing twist that brings new flavors to the salad.
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Fruitier Dressing: For a sweeter dressing, include an extra handful of blueberries or a splash of orange juice to deepen the flavors.
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Spice it Up: Sprinkle in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a surprising kick of heat that energizes each bite.
Enhancing your Cranberry Blueberry Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Dressing has never been easier! And while you’re experimenting, don’t forget to check out our delicious Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad for another healthy and scrumptious option!
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Blueberry Salad
Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the crispness of the greens.
Dressing Storage: The blueberry balsamic dressing can be refrigerated for up to 4 days in a sealed jar. Shake well before using, as it may separate.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the salad out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety, especially in warm weather.
Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the salad ingredients in advance, but wait to dress it until just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Blueberry Salad
Fresh Ingredients: Use the ripest blueberries you can find. Fresh produce makes this Cranberry Blueberry Salad truly shine and enhances the flavors.
Dressing Storage: Keep the blueberry balsamic dressing in the fridge, separately from the salad. This ensures the salad stays crisp until serving time.
Seasonal Swaps: Don’t be shy about customizing! Add seasonal fruits like apples or peaches, but ensure they complement the tartness of cranberries.
Lighter Touch: If you prefer a tangier dressing, increase the balsamic vinegar slightly, but taste as you go to avoid overpowering the blueberries.
Crunch Control: For added crunch, consider toasting sunflower seeds before adding them to your salad; this will deepen their nutty flavor and give a delightful texture.
Cranberry Blueberry Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Dressing Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe blueberries for the salad?
Absolutely! Look for blueberries that are plump and still have a hint of blue or purple color. They should also be firm to the touch and free of wrinkles or dark spots. Avoid any that have a fermented smell, which indicates overripeness.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of this salad?
For best results, store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the blueberry balsamic dressing separate to maintain the crispness of the greens. This way, you can combine them just before serving!
Can I freeze the salad or its dressing?
I generally recommend not freezing the salad, as the greens and fruits can become mushy when thawed. However, you can freeze the blueberry balsamic dressing! Pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It will last for about 3 months in the freezer. To use, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.
What should I do if the dressing is too sweet for my taste?
If you find the dressing a tad too sweet, no worries! Simply add a splash more balsamic vinegar or a pinch of salt to balance the flavors. Mix well, and taste until you achieve that perfect tangy-sweet overall flavor that complements the salad beautifully.
Are there allergies I should be aware of with this recipe?
Definitely! This Cranberry Blueberry Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Dressing is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for many dietary restrictions. However, be cautious of nuts if you’re serving individuals with nut allergies. You can easily swap out sunflower seeds for pumpkin seeds or more dried fruits if needed.
Can I prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! You can chop your salad ingredients—greens, cucumber, and blueberries—up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to store each component in separate containers in the fridge. This will help retain freshness and crispness. Then, toss everything together with the dressing right before serving to create a stunning, vibrant dish!
Cranberry Blueberry Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Dressing Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a blender, combine 1 cup of fresh blueberries, ¼ cup of balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of honey, and a pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Blend these ingredients on high for about 30 seconds until smooth. As the blender runs, slowly drizzle in ½ cup of avocado oil to emulsify the dressing into a luscious mixture.
- While the dressing blends, rinse 4 cups of spring mix salad greens under cold water in a colander. Shake off excess water to ensure the greens remain crisp and fresh. After drying, transfer the greens to a large salad bowl.
- Chop 1 medium English cucumber and gently fold it into your bowl of fresh greens along with 1 cup of juicy blueberries and ½ cup of dried cranberries. Toss everything together gently.
- Drizzle approximately ½ cup of the homemade blueberry balsamic dressing over the mixture. Toss to ensure every bite is deliciously coated.
- Top the salad with 1 cup of mandarin orange segments and ¼ cup of roasted unsalted sunflower seeds just before serving.
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