Nothing says fresh and healthy quite like a vibrant Blueberry Broccoli Spinach Salad! This crisp, creamy delight is not just a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition. The combination of sweet blueberries, crunchy broccoli, and the rich, buttery texture of avocado, all accented by a tangy poppy seed ranch dressing, makes this salad a versatile dish that can shine as either a side or a light meal. Whether you’re planning a summer picnic, a family gathering, or simply looking to enjoy a refreshing meal at home, this salad is packed with wholesome goodness and a medley of textures that are sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients while providing maximum flavor and satisfaction. Let’s dive deeper into how you can whip up this delightful dish that brings a burst of color and health to your plate!
Ingredients
- 4 oz baby spinach
- ½ ripe avocado, diced
- ¼ cup blueberries
- ½ cup chopped broccoli
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2–4 tablespoons dried cranberries
- 2–4 tablespoons roasted sunflower seeds (unsalted)
- Black pepper, to taste (optional)
Instructions
To begin making this delightful salad, the first step is preparing the creamy poppy seed ranch dressing. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, lemon juice, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), buttermilk, and mayonnaise until smooth and well combined. Then, add the poppy seeds along with dried dill, parsley, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, making sure it’s chilled in the fridge while you prepare the salad.
Next, take a large salad bowl and start building your salad. Begin by adding the baby spinach as your base to create a healthy foundation. Then, toss in the chopped broccoli—this will provide a satisfying crunch to every bite. Add the diced avocado for its creamy texture, followed by the vibrant blueberries that pop with sweetness. Crumbled feta cheese will add a salty and tangy kick, while the dried cranberries introduce a pleasant chewiness and additional sweetness. Finally, sprinkle the roasted sunflower seeds on top for a nutty crunch.
Once all your ingredients are in the bowl, take the chilled dressing from the fridge and drizzle it generously over the salad. The next step is crucial: toss the salad gently, mixing the dressing with the ingredients without mashing them together. For an added kick, feel free to sprinkle some black pepper over the top according to your taste preference. Once everything is well combined, your Blueberry Broccoli Spinach Salad is ready to serve!
Variations
This Blueberry Broccoli Spinach Salad is not only delicious, but it also provides a great base for many variations based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few options to mix it up:
- For added protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken or chickpeas, creating a complete meal.
- If you are looking for different flavors, swap out the feta cheese for goat cheese or even shredded cheddar to give it a different taste profile.
- Experiment with using different fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or even diced apples for a change of sweetness.
- Try adding some nuts such as walnuts or pecans instead of sunflower seeds for a different crunch and flavor depth.
- If you prefer a lighter dressing, you could substitute the mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt or omit it entirely.
- For a spicy twist, add some sliced jalapeños or a touch of sriracha to the dressing.
Cooking Notes
When preparing this salad, there are some handy tips to ensure everything goes smoothly. First, to reduce prep time, consider using precut broccoli florets and pre-washed spinach to make assembly even faster. If you prefer a softer broccoli texture, lightly steam the chopped broccoli for just a couple of minutes before cooling it down in an ice bath; this retains the nutrients while softening the crunch.
Store the dressing in a separate container if you are not serving the salad immediately to prevent the greens from wilting and losing their freshness. Keep in mind that the salad is ideal for a day or two in the refrigerator, but for the best flavor, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you are making the salad ahead of time, add the dressing just before serving.
Additionally, remember that different brands of Greek yogurt can vary in thickness. If your dressing turns out thicker than you’d like, gradually stir in more buttermilk until you reach your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This delightful Blueberry Broccoli Spinach Salad makes for a vibrant side dish at any meal, particularly well-suited for barbecues, holiday gatherings, or meal prep for lunchboxes. You can also plate it alongside grilled fish or chicken for a flavorful main course. For a decorative touch, consider garnishing the salad with thinly sliced lemon rings or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Tips
- For optimal flavors, allow the dressing to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving; this helps meld the flavors together.
- Use fresh, unbruised avocados for a more appealing presentation.
- Don’t hesitate to adjust the amounts of cranberries and sunflower seeds based on your personal preference.
- If using frozen blueberries, ensure they’re thawed and drained before adding them to the salad.
- Always taste and adjust seasonings as your ingredients may vary in flavor intensity.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: 245 per serving
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 310mg
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and dressing in advance. Just keep them separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.
What’s a good alternative to the Greek yogurt?
Sour cream is a great substitute for Greek yogurt in the dressing if you prefer its creamy texture.
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the salad for the best results.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this Blueberry Broccoli Spinach Salad is naturally gluten-free as all of its ingredients are gluten-free.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Conclusion
With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, the Blueberry Broccoli Spinach Salad is sure to become a staple at your dining table! Its versatility allows you to enjoy it as a refreshing side, a hearty lunch, or even as part of an impressive dinner spread. Incorporating vibrant fruits, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy dressing, this salad offers not only visual pleasure but also a wealth of nutrition. So next time you’re looking for a quick yet satisfying dish, reach for this recipe and let its colorful ingredients bring joy to your palate. We’d love to hear how your version turns out or any twists you put on it. Don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments below and spread the love by sharing this recipe with friends!