Berry Salad with Poppy Dressing

The first time I brought this berry salad to a summer potluck, I watched three different people ask for the recipe before they even finished their first bite. Something about that sweet tangy poppy seed dressing hits different when the berries are at their peak, you know? My neighbor actually said it tasted like sunshine on a plate, which sounds ridiculous until you take that first perfect bite.

Last July I made this for my sister's birthday lunch and ended up doubling the recipe because everyone kept going back for seconds. The strawberries were so juicy they practically melted into the greens, and that creamy yogurt based dressing clung to every single berry. She still texts me about it whenever berry season rolls around.

Ingredients

• Mixed baby greens: Spring mix works beautifully here but arugula adds this lovely peppery kick that cuts through the sweet berries
• Fresh strawberries: Pick ones that smell like strawberry because that aroma equals flavor and slice them right before serving so they dont weep
• Fresh blueberries: These little bursts of sweetness balance the tangy dressing perfectly
• Fresh raspberries: So delicate but they bring this bright tartness that makes the whole salad sing
• Fresh blackberries: They add this gorgeous deep color and earthy sweetness that grounds all the other berries
• Crumbled feta cheese: The salty creaminess is the secret weapon that ties sweet and tangy together
• Toasted sliced almonds: Toast them yourself in a dry pan for 3 minutes because the difference is night and day
• Thinly sliced red onion: Use a mandoline if you have one for paper thin ribbons that melt into the background
• Plain Greek yogurt: Makes the dressing creamy without being heavy and adds this lovely tang
• Mayonnaise: Just two tablespoons for richness and body that yogurt alone cant provide
• Honey: Raw honey gives the best flavor but whatever you have works
• Apple cider vinegar: This is what gives the dressing its signature zing
• Fresh lemon juice: Brightens everything and keeps the berries from oxidizing too quickly
• Poppy seeds: They add this subtle crunch and look so pretty speckled through the dressing
• Salt and black pepper: Just enough to wake up all the flavors without overpowering the delicate berries

Instructions

Whisk up your dressing:

Grab a small bowl and dump in the yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, vinegar, lemon juice, poppy seeds, salt and pepper. Whisk like you mean it until its completely smooth and let it hang out while you prep everything else.

Build your beautiful salad base:

Pile those greens into your biggest serving bowl and scatter all the berries over top. Toss in the red onion, feta, and those gorgeous toasted almonds.

Bring it all together:

Drizzle about half the dressing over the salad and use tongs to gently fold everything together. Add more dressing if it needs it but remember you can always add more.

Get it on the table fast:

Serve immediately while those berries are still cold and crisp because this salad waits for no one.

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My dad claims he doesnt even like salad but he went back for thirds of this at our Fourth of July cookout. Watching him pick out all the extra almonds and berries from the bottom of the bowl like a treasure hunt was maybe the best compliment ever.

Make It Your Own

Swap in toasted pecans or walnuts if almonds arent your thing. Goat cheese creates this whole different creamy tangy vibe that is equally dreamy. Sometimes I throw in fresh mint or basil just to see what happens.

Perfect Timing

The absolute best time to make this is when you can get berries from a farmers market or pick them yourself. That slightly overripe phase where berries are super fragrant and sweet? Thats when this salad transforms from great to unforgettable.

Serving Suggestions

This alongside grilled chicken or fish feels like summer on a plate. A crisp white wine cuts through the creamy dressing perfectly. Some crusty bread to mop up any extra dressing at the bottom of the bowl.

• Grilled shrimp makes this a complete dinner
• Add avocado for extra creaminess
• Mason jar salads work beautifully for meal prep

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Hope this becomes your go to summer recipe like it is for me now.

Common Questions

→ What is the best way to prepare the poppy seed dressing?

Whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper until smooth for a creamy and well-balanced dressing.

→ Can I substitute the feta cheese in the salad?

Yes, goat cheese works well, or you can omit the cheese entirely for a dairy-free option without sacrificing flavor.

→ How should the salad be served for optimal freshness?

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to ensure a fresh, crisp texture and vibrant flavors.

→ Are there any recommended nuts to replace almonds?

Toasted pecans or walnuts are excellent alternatives that provide a similar crunch and complement the other ingredients.

→ What proteins can be added to make the dish more substantial?

Grilled chicken or shrimp can be incorporated to add protein and transform this light dish into a more filling meal.