Superfood Berry Lemon Herb Salad

This vibrant berry salad brings together the season’s freshest super greens and sweet berries with a zesty lemon herb dressing you can whip up in minutes. It is the kind of dish I crave when I want to feel energized or need a refreshing side for spring weekends.

The first time I tossed this salad together for a family picnic everyone went back for seconds and the creamy goat cheese with berries is now a must on our table every spring.

Ingredients

• Super greens mix: gives a hearty nutrient-rich base Look for fresh leaves with no wilting and vibrant color
• Kale: brings an earthy bite and a boost of vitamins Select leaves that are dark green without tough stems
• Strawberries: add sweetness Choose ripe berries with bright color and a sweet aroma
• Blackberries and blueberries: give juicy bursts of flavor Always pick firm plump berries for best texture
• Shelled pistachios: offer crunch and healthy fats Try to use unsalted for better control over flavor
• Pepitas: supply extra crunch plus magnesium Seek out hulled seeds to avoid any bitterness
• Blueberry goat cheese: adds tang and creamy texture If unavailable plain goat cheese works beautifully too
• Plain Greek yogurt: in the dressing gives creaminess and protein Opt for nonfat or full-fat based on preference
• Lemon juice: brings brightness Use freshly squeezed for best taste
• Mustard: delivers gentle heat and depth Choose a quality Dijon or grainy mustard
• Extra virgin olive oil: smooths the dressing and enriches flavor Pick a bottle you love the taste of solo
• Fresh mint parsley and oregano: add garden-fresh herbal notes Fresh herbs really shine here so avoid dried substitutes
• Coarse salt and ground black pepper: finish the flavors Use flaky sea salt if possible

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Dressing:

In a blender or food processor add the Greek yogurt lemon juice mustard olive oil mint parsley oregano and blend until completely smooth Stop and scrape sides if needed then taste Add coarse salt and ground black pepper in small pinches at a time to balance flavors

Toss the Salad:

Grab a large mixing bowl Combine the super greens mix chopped kale strawberries blackberries blueberries pistachios and pepitas Gently toss with clean hands or salad tongs so every piece is well coated but berries stay whole and bright

Add the Cheese:

Crumble blueberry goat cheese or plain goat cheese over the top with your fingers This gives tender creamy bites tucked in every forkful

Add Dressing and Finish:

Pour some of the dressing over the salad and toss again Lightly coat the greens and berries without drenching the mix Taste and add more dressing if needed Finish with fresh cracked pepper and a final sprinkle of pistachios

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The blueberry goat cheese brings an unexpected kick of flavor every time I serve this My husband admits he was skeptical at first but now it is his go-to request for special occasions

Storage Tips

This salad keeps best when greens and dressing are stored separately Mix only the amount you will eat right away Once tossed the greens remain crisp for a few hours but can wilt if kept overnight Store any leftover dressing in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to three days and give it a quick shake before using again

Ingredient Substitutions

If kale is too bold swap it for more baby spinach or arugula Try toasted almonds or walnuts instead of pistachios if those are what you have handy Feta or a vegan cheese crumble works nicely instead of blueberry goat cheese For the dressing try basil or dill in place of any herbs you cannot find fresh

Serving Suggestions

This salad does double duty as a chic starter or a light lunch Top with leftover grilled chicken or salmon for added protein For a party presentation layer it in a shallow platter for a rainbow effect and finish with extra fresh berries or edible flowers

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Cultural and Historical Context

The green goddess style dressing dates back to 1920s San Francisco where it was a restaurant favorite named for a famous play Today’s twist adds lemon and a blend of herbs making it lighter and more modern Across Mediterranean and Californian cuisine you will find salads pairing berries and greens as a celebration of the season

Recipe FAQs

→ What types of super greens are included?

The salad features a mix of baby spinach, baby arugula, Swiss chard, chicory, green cabbage, and Brussels sprouts.

→ Can I substitute the blueberry goat cheese?

Yes, regular goat cheese works great if blueberry goat cheese is unavailable. You can also try feta for a tangy twist.

→ Is the dressing easy to prepare?

It’s simple—just blend Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, mustard, herbs, and olive oil until smooth and creamy.

→ How do I store leftover salad?

Store undressed salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days to maintain freshness.

→ Can I add protein to make it a meal?

Absolutely! Add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas to transform the salad into a hearty main dish.

→ What other nuts or seeds can I use?

Swap pistachios and pepitas with sliced almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds according to your preference.