Looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish that will steal the spotlight at your next gathering? Look no further than the Red White Blueberry Salad! This delightful American recipe is not only a feast for the eyes with its stunning array of colors, but it also bursts with flavor and nutrition. Perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch, this salad combines the sweetness of strawberries and blueberries with the creamy tang of feta cheese and the crunch of walnuts. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a quick and easy way to impress your guests and elevate your culinary game. Dive into this recipe and discover how to create a salad that’s as delicious as it is beautiful!
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the mixed greens under cool running water, then pat dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Carefully slice fresh strawberries into thin, uniform pieces, ensuring each slice is approximately 1/4 inch thick for consistent presentation.
- Gently rinse blueberries and inspect for any stems or damaged berries, discarding any imperfect ones.
- In a large salad bowl, spread the mixed greens as a base layer, creating an even, fluffy foundation for the salad.
- Artfully arrange sliced strawberries and whole blueberries across the greens, creating a vibrant red and blue color pattern.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese evenly over the fruit, allowing small chunks to distribute throughout the salad.
- Toast chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, then let cool briefly.
- Scatter the toasted walnuts over the salad, providing a crunchy texture and nutty flavor contrast.
- Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette carefully over the salad, using a light hand to ensure even distribution without overwhelming the ingredients.
- Gently toss the salad just before serving to mix ingredients while maintaining the visual appeal of each component.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and presentation, select the freshest mixed greens, strawberries, and blueberries you can find. Look for vibrant colors and firm textures.
- Prepare Ahead: You can wash and slice your fruits and vegetables ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the salad to keep everything fresh.
- Customize Your Greens: While mixed greens are delicious, feel free to add your favorite leafy greens like spinach or arugula for added flavor and nutrition.
- Experiment with Dressings: If you want to switch things up, try different dressings like honey mustard or a citrus vinaigrette to enhance the salad's flavor profile.
- Serve Chilled: For an extra refreshing experience, chill your salad bowl in the refrigerator before serving. This keeps the salad cool and crisp.
- Add Protein: To make this salad a complete meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein boost.
- Presentation Matters: Take your time arranging the fruits and cheese artfully on the greens; a well-presented salad is always more appetizing!
- Toss Gently: When mixing the salad, do so gently to maintain the integrity of the fruits and avoid bruising them.
- Make It Ahead: This salad can be made a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to prevent sogginess.
- Enjoy the Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s a great way to enjoy a quick, healthy snack the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
