Berry Blue Salad

Berry Blue Salad Recipe with Greens, Blueberries, and Blue Cheese

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

The Berry Blue Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of blueberries with the rich, creamy texture of blue cheese, all nestled on a bed of crisp baby spinach leaves. This salad is perfect for those who appreciate a dish that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. With its simple yet sophisticated ingredients, the Berry Blue Salad is sure to impress guests or provide a delightful twist to your everyday meals.

History

The Berry Blue Salad is a modern creation that draws inspiration from classic fruit and cheese pairings. The use of blueberries in salads has gained popularity in recent years, as people have become more adventurous in their culinary explorations. The combination of blueberries and blue cheese, with its contrasting flavors, is a testament to the evolving palate of the food-loving community. This recipe, while relatively new, is rooted in the tradition of mixing sweet and savory elements to create dishes that are complex and satisfying.

Ingredients

8 cups loosely packed organic baby field greens or a combination mixed with baby spinach leaves
0.5 cup fresh blueberries
0.25 cup blue cheese crumbles
0.5 cup thinly sliced red onion
0.33 cup extra virgin olive oil
0.33 cup orange juice
1-2 tbsp fresh lemon thyme leaves
1 tbsp minced shallot (optional)
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
0.25 cup roasted sliced or slivered almonds

How to prepare

Place the greens, blueberries, blue cheese, and red onion in a serving bowl.
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, lemon thyme leaves, shallot (if desired), and salt and pepper to taste.
Toss the salad with the dressing and garnish with roasted, sliced almonds.

Variations

Substitute raspberries or strawberries for the blueberries for a different flavor profile.
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
Use feta cheese instead of blue cheese for a milder taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To maximize the flavors and textures in this salad, consider the following tips:

- Use fresh, organic baby spinach for the best taste and nutritional value.

- If blueberries are out of season, frozen blueberries can be used as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the salad.

- For a more pronounced blue cheese flavor, crumble the cheese yourself rather than buying pre-crumbled cheese.

- Toasting the almonds before adding them to the salad enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.

Serving Suggestions

The Berry Blue Salad can be served as a standalone meal for a light lunch or as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial dinner. It pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Cooking Techniques

This salad requires no cooking, making it quick and easy to prepare. The key technique is in the dressing—whisking the olive oil and orange juice together until emulsified ensures a smooth and flavorful dressing that coats the salad evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Walnut oil can be used in place of olive oil for a nuttier flavor.

- Lemon juice can substitute for orange juice for a more tangy dressing.

- Arugula can replace baby spinach for a peppery kick.

Make Ahead Tips

The salad can be prepared up to a day in advance, with the dressing stored separately. Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to keep the spinach leaves fresh and crisp.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients. Garnish with extra blueberries and almond slices on top for an elegant finish.

Pairing Recommendations

The Berry Blue Salad pairs well with white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complement the tangy flavors of the dressing. For a non-alcoholic option, a lemon or berry-infused sparkling water would be refreshing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not require reheating. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though the spinach may wilt slightly. It is not recommended to freeze this salad.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Berry Blue Salad contains approximately 200-250 calories, making it a light and nutritious option for a meal or side dish.

Carbohydrates

This salad is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the blueberries and the orange juice in the dressing. Blueberries are a great source of dietary fiber and provide a natural sweetness without adding too much sugar to the dish.

Fats

The fats in this salad come mainly from the extra virgin olive oil and the blue cheese. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are known to be heart-healthy. Blue cheese, while higher in saturated fat, is used sparingly, adding flavor without significantly increasing the overall fat content.

Proteins

The Berry Blue Salad is not high in protein, but it does contain some from the blue cheese and almonds. For those looking to increase the protein content, grilled chicken breast or chickpeas could be added to the salad.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, particularly from the spinach and blueberries. Spinach is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K. Blueberries are known for their antioxidant properties and are a good source of vitamin C and manganese.

Alergens

The main allergens in this recipe are almonds and blue cheese. Those with nut allergies can omit the almonds, and those who are lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy can substitute the blue cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Summary

Overall, the Berry Blue Salad is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of healthy fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins. It is low in calories and can be easily modified to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Summary

The Berry Blue Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for those seeking a nutritious and flavorful meal. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it is an ideal choice for both everyday dining and special occasions. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal, this salad is sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a potluck picnic with some friends from the neighborhood. As soon as I walked in, I was hit with the most wonderful aroma. I followed my nose to the kitchen where I saw my friend Mary stirring a big bowl of something colorful and delicious-looking.

"What's that you're making?" I asked, peering over her shoulder.

"Oh, this is my famous Berry Blue Salad," Mary replied with a smile. "It's a family recipe that I've been making for years. Would you like to try some?"

I eagerly accepted a spoonful of the salad and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth – sweet and tart berries, creamy whipped topping, and a hint of blueberry gelatin. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish.

Mary was kind enough to share her recipe with me, and I couldn't wait to try it out for myself. I gathered all the ingredients – fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, pineapple, whipped topping, and blueberry gelatin – and got to work in my own kitchen.

The first step was to prepare the blueberry gelatin according to the package instructions. Once that was done, I let it chill in the refrigerator until it was set. Next, I mixed in the whipped topping to create a light and fluffy base for the salad. Then came the fun part – adding in the fresh fruit. I carefully chopped the strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and pineapple into bite-sized pieces and gently folded them into the creamy mixture.

As I tasted the finished Berry Blue Salad, I was transported back to that sunny day at the picnic. The flavors were just as vibrant and delicious as I remembered. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own collection, to be shared with friends and family for years to come.

Over the years, I have made my own tweaks and adjustments to the recipe, adding in different fruits and experimenting with different flavors of gelatin. Each time I make it, I am reminded of that first time I tried Mary's Berry Blue Salad and how it sparked a love of cooking and creating in me.

Now, whenever I make this salad for a potluck or family gathering, it always disappears quickly. People can't get enough of the bright colors and fresh flavors, and I love seeing their faces light up as they take their first bite. It brings me so much joy to share this recipe with others and to pass on the tradition of delicious, homemade food.

As I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the smells of berries and whipped cream, I can't help but feel grateful for the friends and family who have shared their recipes with me over the years. Each dish tells a story and holds memories of special moments and cherished times spent together. And for me, the Berry Blue Salad will always hold a special place in my heart as the recipe that sparked my passion for cooking and the joy of sharing good food with those I love.