Green Salad is always on my table, especially during the summer season. And this recipe of Green Salad with a unique twist sweet and tangy blueberries brings together the best of both worlds: the wholesome goodness of nutrient-rich greens and the antioxidant power and vibrant flavors of the succulent blueberries.
It’s a harmonious marriage of fresh, crisp greens with the natural sweetness and refreshing tartness of the blueberries, creating a delightful symphony of tastes in every bite.
Ingredients & Health Benefits of Green Salad
Leafy Greens are rich in essential vitamins like A, C, K, and folate, as well as minerals such as iron and calcium. They are also a fantastic source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and aiding in weight management. Choose from an array of leafy options like nutrient-dense spinach, peppery arugula, hearty kale, or a mix of baby greens. Each green brings its unique flavor and nutrient profile, ensuring a diverse range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in every forkful.
Cucumbers give a refreshing crunch to the green salad. Elevate the nutritional value and visual appeal of your green salad by incorporating an assortment of other colorful vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, shredded carrots or red cabbage.
Blueberries are the nutritional powerhouses of antioxidants like anthocyanins, which are renowned for their potential in protecting cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. If you desire a touch more sweetness, add other naturally sweet fruits like sliced strawberries, blackberries, or dried cranberries to complement the blueberries.
Creamy Avocado. For an extra dose of creaminess and heart-healthy fats, consider adding creamy avocado slices to your salad. Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, potassium, and fiber, making them a wonderful addition to boost the nutritional value and satiety of the dish. If you’re an avocado lover like me, don’t hesitate to indulge!
Toasted Nuts & Seeds. I added toasted almond flakes to my green salad for an extra crunch and. Consider sprinkling some toasted nuts or seeds over your salad as well. Walnuts, almonds, cashew, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds provide healthy fats, protein, and a wealth of vitamins and minerals to elevate the salad’s overall nutrient content.
Crumbled Feta Cheese. I love adding good quality feta cheese to my salads. It gives a touch of tangy and creamy indulgence to the salad. Feta cheese pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the blueberries and balances the overall flavor. Alternatively, opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan-friendly option. Or add goat cheese instead.
Fresh Herbs. Consider adding a handful of torn basil leaves, chopped mint, or a sprinkling of dill for an aromatic twist. These herbs not only add an extra layer of taste but also infuse the salad with a delightful fragrance.
Superfoods. Boost the nutritional profile of your green salad with the addition of superfoods. Consider sprinkling chia seeds, hemp hearts, or flaxseeds for added omega-3 fatty acids and protein. These superfoods not only elevate the healthfulness of the dish but also provide an interesting texture.
Be adventurous and use your favorite ingredients to create a salad that truly reflects your palate and preferences. Let your imagination guide you 🙂
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
Whether you’re enjoying this green salad as a refreshing appetizer, a side dish, or a satisfying main course, these ideas will help you
Light and Refreshing Appetizer. Present your green salad with a blueberry twist as an inviting appetizer for gatherings or dinner parties. Serve it in individual salad bowls or on small plates, garnished with a few fresh blueberries on top. The vibrant colors and flavors will captivate your guests, setting the perfect tone for a delightful dining experience.
Side Dish. Pair your green salad with grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu to create a wholesome and balanced meal. The sweet and tangy notes of the blueberry vinaigrette beautifully complement the savory flavors of these protein-rich options, making the salad a perfect accompaniment to your main course.
Salad in a Jar. Assemble your green salad in a mason jar for a convenient and portable lunch option. Layer the greens, vegetables, and blueberries, and store the dressing separately until ready to serve. When lunchtime arrives, simply drizzle the dressing over the salad, shake well to mix, and enjoy a refreshing and nutritious meal on the go.
Picnic Delight. Pack your green salad with a blueberry twist in a lidded container for a delightful addition to your picnic spread. Whether you’re dining in a picturesque park or enjoying the beach breeze, this salad is a perfect complement to a leisurely outdoor meal. Pair it with crusty bread, a selection of cheeses, and a bottle of sparkling water for a memorable picnic experience.
Main Course. Turn your green salad with a blueberry twist into a satisfying main course by adding some protein and whole grains. Toss in cooked quinoa, farro, pearl couscous barley, or brown rice. It will add texture and nutritional value. Top the salad with grilled shrimp, sliced chicken, or a medley of roasted vegetables to create a hearty and nutritious dinner option.
By experimenting with these serving and pairing suggestions 🙂 Bon appétit!
Try Other NutriQuorum Summer Recipes:
Nutritious & Colorful Fruit Salad Recipe
Quinoa Salad with Spinach & Feta Cheese
Pineapple Coconut Popsicles-DIY Tropical Delight
Green Smoothie to Boost Your Energy
Green Salad Recipe with a Blueberry Twist
Equipment
- 1 salad bowl
Ingredients
- 4 oz mixed salad greens (arugula, kale, spinach, lettuces) 200 g
- 10 oz blueberries 300 g
- 5 oz feta cheese (or goat cheese) 150 g
- 8 baby cucumbers
- 2 Tbsp almond flakes
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 lemon
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 Tbsp maple syrup or raw honey
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a frying pan without oil and roast the almond flakes (or other nuts/seeds) for a couple of minutes on low heat.
- Cut the cucumbers into slices. Slice avocado. Squeeze the lemon juice. Set aside.
- Make a dressing by mixing olive oil, maple syrup, and lemon juice. Add lemon juice to your preferences. Season with salt & pepper to taste.
- Mix salad greens with cucumbers, crumbled feta cheese, sliced avocado, and blueberries. Sprinkle with almonds and pour over the dressing.
- Serve with toast or your favorite protein, such as grilled shrimp, chicken, salmon, or tofu. Enjoy!
Notes
- Consider sprinkling some toasted nuts or seeds over your salad. Walnuts, almonds, cashew, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds.
- Boost the nutritional profile of your green salad with the addition of superfoods. Consider sprinkling chia seeds, hemp hearts, or flaxseeds for added omega-3 fatty acids and protein.
- Pair your Green Salad with grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu.
- Toss in cooked quinoa, farro, pearl couscous barley, or brown rice. It will add texture and nutritional value.
- Top the salad with grilled shrimp, sliced chicken, or a medley of roasted vegetables to create a hearty and nutritious dinner option.
- Experiment with the dressing by adjusting the ingredients to suit your taste. You can vary the ratio of maple syrup to lemon juice for a sweeter or tangier dressing. Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of balsamic vinegar for a creative twist.