A Mixed Greens Salad with Fruit is a vibrant and refreshing dish that balances the crispness of leafy greens with the sweetness of fresh fruit. Perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or as part of a holiday spread, this salad is a celebration of flavors and textures. Tossed with a tangy vinaigrette, the combination of mixed greens, juicy berries, and crunchy nuts creates a nutritious and visually stunning meal. It’s easy to customize with your favorite fruits and nuts, making it as versatile as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 5 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., spinach, arugula, romaine, or spring mix)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/2 cup mandarin orange segments (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds (toasted, if desired)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, strawberries, blueberries, mandarin oranges, and red onion.
- Sprinkle the feta or goat cheese and nuts evenly over the top.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
- Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips:
- For extra flavor, try adding dried cranberries, sliced apples, or pears.
- If you prefer a creamier dressing, substitute balsamic vinegar with Greek yogurt or add a dollop of mayonnaise.
- To make it heartier, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
