Description
A refreshing and vibrant Cranberry Blueberry Salad tossed with a homemade Blueberry Balsamic Dressing. This quick 15-minute recipe blends sweet and tangy flavors from fresh blueberries, dried cranberries, citrus mandarin segments, and a zesty dressing made with balsamic vinegar and honey. Perfect as a light lunch or a nutritious side dish to your meal.
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 heaping cup blueberries
- 1 (4-5 oz) bag spring mix salad greens
- 1/2 English cucumber, chopped
- 1/2 cup mandarin orange segments
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2-4 tablespoons roasted unsalted sunflower seeds
Blueberry Balsamic Dressing
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon salt (sea salt recommended)
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup avocado oil (olive oil works too)
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: In a food processor or blender, combine all dressing ingredients except the avocado oil. Blend until the blueberries are fully pureed. Use the small opening in the blender lid to slowly drizzle in the avocado oil, allowing the dressing to emulsify and become smooth and creamy.
- Prepare the Greens: Thoroughly wash and dry the spring mix salad greens to ensure freshness and crispness.
- Combine Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the washed greens with chopped cucumber and a heaping cup of fresh blueberries. Toss lightly with a drizzle or two of the blueberry balsamic dressing, adding more dressing as desired to coat evenly.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Top the dressed salad with mandarin orange segments, dried cranberries, and roasted unsalted sunflower seeds. Serve immediately to enjoy the vibrant flavors and fresh textures.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe blueberries for the best flavor in both the salad and dressing.
- The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; shake well before using.
- Adjust the amount of honey in the dressing to suit your preferred level of sweetness.
- For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or tofu to make this a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American