Why Make This Recipe
Blueberry Broccoli Spinach Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. It combines green veggies with the sweetness of blueberries and the crunch of sunflower seeds. This salad is perfect for a light meal, a side dish, or even a potluck contribution. It’s healthy, refreshing, and easy to prepare!
How to Make Blueberry Broccoli Spinach Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 cups baby spinach leaves
- 1 cup broccoli florets, lightly steamed or raw
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Begin by washing the baby spinach, broccoli, and blueberries thoroughly.
- If using raw broccoli, chop it into small florets. If steaming, steam until just tender and let cool.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, broccoli, blueberries, diced avocado, cranberries, and crumbled feta.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Top with sunflower seeds before serving.
- Enjoy your refreshing salad!
How to Serve Blueberry Broccoli Spinach Salad
Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature. It goes well as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. You can also enjoy it on its own as a light lunch. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of extra sunflower seeds for added crunch and flavor!
How to Store Blueberry Broccoli Spinach Salad
To keep your salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you have leftover dressing, keep it separate to avoid wilting the greens. The salad is best enjoyed within a day or two but can last up to three days if stored properly.
Tips to Make Blueberry Broccoli Spinach Salad
- Use fresh, ripe blueberries for the best flavor.
- If you prefer more crunch, consider adding nuts like almonds or walnuts.
- For added sweetness, drizzle a little honey in the dressing.
- Adjust the ingredients based on what you have; this salad is very flexible!
Variation
For a tasty twist, you can substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese, or add grilled chicken for more protein. Feel free to mix in other fruits like strawberries or nuts like pecans.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but be sure to thaw them and drain the excess juice before adding them to the salad.
What if I don’t like broccoli?
You can leave out the broccoli or substitute it with another veggie like cucumber or bell peppers.
Can I make this salad in advance?
It’s best to eat the salad fresh. However, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and combine them just before serving to maintain freshness.