If you’re craving a salad that’s as refreshing as it is indulgent, this Blackberry & Avocado Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette is your perfect match. Creamy avocado, juicy blackberries, and crisp mixed greens are elevated by crumbled feta and toasted pecans for a satisfying mix of flavors and textures. The tangy, slightly sweet honey lemon vinaigrette ties everything together, making it ideal for a quick lunch, light dinner, or elegant starter for guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 10 minutes, perfect for busy days
- Sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors in every bite
- Vegetarian and nutrient-packed with fresh fruits and greens
- Crunchy pecans and creamy avocado create delightful textures
- Easy to customize or serve as a side or main salad
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- Mixed greens (6 cups) – A mix of baby spinach, arugula, and romaine creates a crisp and tender base
- Fresh blackberries (1 cup) – Sweet-tart bursts of flavor
- Ripe avocado (1, sliced) – Creamy richness that balances the salad
- Crumbled feta cheese (¼ cup) – Tangy and salty contrast
- Toasted pecans (¼ cup, chopped) – Crunchy and nutty finish
- Red onion (2 tbsp, thinly sliced) – Adds a subtle sharp bite
Honey Lemon Vinaigrette
- Olive oil (3 tbsp) – Smooth, flavorful base
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tbsp) – Bright citrus zing
- Honey (1 tbsp) – Gentle sweetness to balance acidity
- Dijon mustard (1 tsp) – Helps emulsify and adds depth
- Salt (¼ tsp) & black pepper (⅛ tsp) – Essential seasoning
How to Make Blackberry & Avocado Salad
Make the Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Tip: Shake in a jar for a smooth, emulsified dressing.
Prepare the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, blackberries, avocado slices, crumbled feta, toasted pecans, and thinly sliced red onion.
Dress and Serve
- Drizzle the honey lemon vinaigrette over the salad just before serving.
- Toss gently to coat without mashing the berries or avocado.
- Serve immediately for optimal texture and freshness.
Tips for Success
- Toast the pecans for enhanced flavor and crunch.
- Use ripe avocado for creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Handle blackberries gently to avoid bruising.
- Adjust sweetness or tang in the vinaigrette according to taste.
- Serve immediately to maintain crispness and prevent avocado browning.
Equipment Needed
- Small bowl or jar for vinaigrette
- Large salad bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Spoon or tongs for tossing
Recipe Variations
- Vegan Option: Replace feta with a plant-based cheese or omit entirely.
- Fruit Swap: Try blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries instead of blackberries.
- Nut Alternatives: Substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or pistachios.
- Cheese Swap: Goat cheese works beautifully in place of feta.
- Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a light lunch or starter for dinner parties.
- Pair with grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Garnish with extra berries or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for presentation.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, as avocado and berries may brown or soften if stored too long.
Can I use frozen blackberries?
Fresh berries are preferred, but thawed, well-drained frozen berries can be used in a pinch.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free.
Can I prepare the dressing ahead?
Yes, store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Shake before using.
How do I prevent avocado from browning?
Add the avocado just before serving and toss gently with the dressing.
Blackberry & Avocado Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing salad featuring a blend of mixed greens, juicy blackberries, creamy avocado, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted pecans, all topped with a tangy honey lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed greens (such as baby spinach, arugula, and romaine)
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup chopped pecans, toasted
- 2 tablespoons red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, blackberries, avocado slices, feta cheese, toasted pecans, and red onion.
- Drizzle with the honey lemon vinaigrette just before serving and gently toss to coat.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and crunch.
- Feta can be substituted with another cheese if desired.
- Best enjoyed fresh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
Final Thoughts
This Blackberry & Avocado Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette is a perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors with a satisfying crunch. Quick, refreshing, and visually stunning, it’s ideal for any occasion—whether a weekday lunch, a healthy dinner, or a centerpiece for entertaining. Enjoy the fresh flavors, share with friends, and delight in every bite!
