If you’re searching for a salad that bursts with color, flavor, and a delightful balance of sweet and tangy, this Mixed Green Salad with Berry and Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe is going to steal your heart. Imagine crisp mixed greens layered with juicy strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, complemented by crunchy candied pecans and feta cheese. The star is the luscious berry and poppy seed dressing that ties every element together perfectly, creating a refreshing and unforgettable salad that feels like a celebration in every bite. It’s effortless to prepare but impressively delicious—trust me, this one will be requested again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this salad lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, whether adding freshness, texture, or that enticing pop of sweetness and creaminess from the dressing.
- 10 cups mixed greens lettuce: A vibrant base combining red lettuce, romaine, spinach, or your favorite mix to provide freshness and welcoming crunch.
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced: Adds a juicy sweetness and lovely red color that pairs perfectly with tartness in the dressing.
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries: Small bursts of juicy flavor that contrast beautifully with the greens.
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries: Their delicate texture and slightly tangy flavor elevate the fruitiness of the salad.
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced: A subtle sharpness that cuts through the sweetness, balancing flavors elegantly.
- 1 sweet apple, chopped: Crunchy and crisp, adding a refreshing and mildly sweet contrast in every mouthful.
- 1 cup candied pecans: Provides a sugary crunch that complements the fruit and creamy elements perfectly.
- 1/3 cup feta cheese crumbles: Salty, tangy flavor and creamy texture that adds depth to the salad.
- 5.3 ounces strawberry yogurt: A moist base for the dressing, bringing both fruitiness and creaminess.
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise: Adds richness and smooth texture to the dressing for a luscious finish.
- 1 small piece red onion: Blended into the dressing to infuse a gentle hint of zestiness.
- 2 Tablespoons milk: Lightens the dressing, making it pourable and silky.
- 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness in the dressing for that perfect balance.
- 3 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Brings bright acidity, keeping the salad refreshingly tangy.
- 1 Tablespoon poppy seeds: Gives a delightful crunch and visual appeal to the dressing.
How to Make Mixed Green Salad with Berry and Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Blend the Dressing
Start by adding the strawberry yogurt, mayonnaise, diced red onion, milk, granulated sugar, and apple cider vinegar into a blender. Blend these ingredients until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This is where all the magic for your signature Mixed Green Salad with Berry and Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe begins, creating a perfectly balanced dressing with fruity sweetness, acidity, and a touch of tang.
Step 2: Customize and Add Poppy Seeds
Once blended, taste the dressing and feel free to adjust it to your liking by adding more vinegar for tanginess, extra sugar for sweetness, or additional mayo and milk for creaminess. Stir in the poppy seeds last to add a charming crunch and speckles of texture. If you’re making this ahead of time, refrigerate the dressing—it can keep fresh for up to two weeks, making your future salad efforts even easier.
Step 3: Prepare Candied Pecans
If you don’t have pre-made candied pecans, now is the time to prepare them using your favorite method and let them cool. These sweet and crunchy nuts provide a contrast in texture that truly amplifies the salad’s charm.
Step 4: Prep the Fresh Ingredients
Wash and dry all your berries carefully. Slice the strawberries, dice the red onion, and chop the sweet apple into bite-sized pieces. Freshness is key here — crisp, clean fruit and veggies make all the difference in this Mixed Green Salad with Berry and Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, begin by adding your mixed greens as the base. Then, layer on the sliced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, diced red onion, chopped apple, candied pecans, and crumble the feta cheese over the top. For a truly professional and inviting appearance, reserve a bit of each topping to sprinkle after tossing.
Step 6: Dress and Toss
Drizzle the creamy poppy seed dressing over the salad in your preferred amount. Toss gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated and mingling beautifully. Add the reserved toppings as a final touch before serving immediately to capture all the fresh flavors and textures.
How to Serve Mixed Green Salad with Berry and Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra flourish, consider topping the salad with freshly cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint or basil. Adding a few whole berries or additional candied pecans on top can elevate visual appeal and give your guests a hint of the deliciousness to come.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with light grilled chicken, salmon, or even a simple crusty baguette. It brings freshness and vibrancy to any meal, serving as a delightful counterpoint to rich mains or as a stand-alone lunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad in a large wooden bowl for a rustic, inviting touch or plate individual servings on chilled white plates for a crisp, elegant look. Layering the salad in a clear glass trifle bowl also makes a stunning centerpiece, with the colorful layers shining through beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad without the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain crispness. Keep the dressing separately to avoid sogginess. When ready to eat, toss the salad with the dressing fresh for the best experience.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well, especially because the delicate greens and fresh berries lose their texture when frozen.
Reheating
Reheating is not recommended for this salad. Serve chilled or at room temperature to savor the crispness and vibrant flavors at their peak.
FAQs
Can I substitute the mixed greens with other greens?
Absolutely! Feel free to use arugula, kale, or even baby spinach exclusively. Each green will add its own unique texture and flavor, making your Mixed Green Salad with Berry and Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe truly your own.
What if I don’t have strawberry yogurt for the dressing?
If strawberry yogurt is unavailable, you can substitute with plain yogurt and add a little strawberry jam or puree to mimic that fruity sweetness the dressing needs.
How long does this salad stay fresh once tossed?
Once tossed with the dressing, the salad is best eaten immediately or within a couple of hours to enjoy maximum freshness, texture, and flavor.
Can I make the dressing vegan?
Yes! Use a plant-based yogurt and vegan mayonnaise to keep the dressing creamy and delicious, maintaining the essence of this Mixed Green Salad with Berry and Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe with a vegan twist.
Any tips for making candied pecans at home?
Absolutely, coat the pecans in melted butter and sugar, then bake at a low temperature until golden and crunchy. Allow them to cool completely before adding to your salad to keep their crunch intact.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a salad that feels refreshing and indulgent all at once, and this Mixed Green Salad with Berry and Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe delivers exactly that. Whether you’re serving it for a casual lunch or dressing up your dinner table, it promises to delight both your eyes and taste buds. So go ahead—gather these simple ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to a salad experience filled with fresh, vibrant goodness!
Print
Mixed Green Salad with Berry and Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and refreshing Mixed Green Salad with Berries, combining fresh mixed greens, assorted berries, crisp apple, candied pecans, and creamy feta cheese topped with a luscious homemade creamy poppy seed dressing. This salad offers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and crunchy textures, making it ideal for a light lunch or elegant side dish.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 10 cups mixed greens lettuce (red lettuce, romaine, spinach, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1 sweet apple, chopped
- 1 cup candied pecans
- 1/3 cup feta cheese crumbles
Dressing Ingredients
- 5.3 ounces strawberry yogurt
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 small piece red onion
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: Add strawberry yogurt, mayonnaise, red onion, milk, granulated sugar, and apple cider vinegar to a blender. Blend until completely smooth to create a creamy and flavorful poppy seed dressing base.
- Adjust and Finish Dressing: Taste the dressing and adjust the flavors as desired by adding more vinegar for tanginess, extra sugar for sweetness, or additional mayo and milk for creaminess. Stir in poppy seeds to finish. Refrigerate the dressing for up to 2 weeks if making ahead.
- Prepare Candied Pecans: If not using store-bought, prepare candied pecans according to your preferred method and allow them to cool completely before assembling the salad.
- Prepare Salad Ingredients: Wash and dry all the berries carefully. Slice the strawberries, dice the red onion, and chop the sweet apple into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the mixed greens as the base. Top with the sliced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, diced red onion, chopped apple, candied pecans, and feta cheese crumbles. For a professional presentation, reserve a little of each topping to sprinkle on at the end.
- Add Dressing and Toss: Drizzle the desired amount of creamy poppy seed dressing over the salad. Gently toss until all ingredients are well combined. Add the reserved toppings on top for extra color and texture. Serve immediately for best freshness and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh, ripe berries and crisp greens to enhance the flavor and texture.
- The dressing can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Candied pecans can be store-bought to save time or made at home for fresher taste.
- This salad is best served immediately after tossing to maintain crispness and freshness.
- To make it vegan, substitute yogurt and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives and omit feta cheese.
