Delightful Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad Recipe

Catch the aroma of a fresh salad that dances on your palate, where the smooth creaminess of avocado plays hide-and-seek with the tartness of ripe blackberries. This Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience that sings with vibrant flavors and textures, perfect for a sunny picnic or a casual dinner party.

Picture this: You’re at a summer gathering, laughter fills the air, and someone brings out this salad. Suddenly, it’s like all your taste buds have decided to throw a party! The delightful crunch of arugula mingles with juicy blackberries and buttery avocado, making each bite an explosion of joy. Trust me; you’ll want to make this salad your go-to dish for every occasion!

Ingredients for Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Arugula: Use about 4 cups of arugula for a peppery base that adds depth to the salad.
• Ripe Avocado: One large avocado is perfect; look for one that yields slightly when pressed.
• Fresh Blackberries: About 1 cup of blackberries adds sweetness and vibrant color; choose plump ones for the best flavor.
• Red Onion: A quarter of a small red onion, thinly sliced will provide a sharp contrast in flavor.
• Olive Oil: Use about 3 tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Two tablespoons will bring acidity and balance—go for a good quality one!
• Salt and Pepper: To taste; they are essential for enhancing all those wonderful flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by rinsing your fresh arugula and blackberries under cold water. Pat them dry gently with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Slice the Avocado

Cut your ripe avocado in half lengthwise. Remove the pit (carefully—no one wants a surprise trip to the ER), scoop out the flesh with a spoon, and slice it into wedges.

Step 3: Cut the Onion

Thinly slice your quarter onion. If you find yourself tearing up like you just watched a sad movie while doing this step, don’t worry; it happens to the best of us.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the arugula, sliced avocado, blackberries, and red onion until well combined. Try not to devour everything at this stage—save some room for dressing!

Step 5: Create the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until emulsified. You can even shake it up like you mean it if you’re feeling fancy.

Step 6: Dress Your Salad

Drizzle your freshly made dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss again until everything is coated in that flavorful goodness.

Transfer to plates and enjoy this delightful salad as either an impressive starter or a light main course full of fresh goodness!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing your salad dressing; this ensures every ingredient gets a flavor boost. Next, wash and chop your arugula, slice the avocados, and toss in the blackberries last to maintain their plumpness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to switch up the greens by adding spinach or kale for an extra nutrient punch. You can also experiment with nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch or a sprinkle of feta cheese for creaminess.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To maintain freshness, keep the dressing separate until serving time. No reheating required—it’s best enjoyed chilled!

I remember the first time I made this salad for a summer BBQ; my friends devoured it so quickly, I barely had time to snap a picture! They still ask me to bring it every time we gather.

FAQs:

What are the health benefits of Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad?

Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad is a powerhouse of nutrients. Blackberries are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins C and K. Avocados provide healthy fats that support heart health and improve nutrient absorption. Arugula adds a peppery flavor while boosting your intake of vitamins A and K. This salad is also low in calories, making it an excellent choice for weight management. Combining these ingredients creates a delicious dish that promotes overall wellness and can aid digestion.

How can I enhance the flavor of Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad?

To enhance the flavor of Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad, consider adding a zesty dressing made from lemon juice or balsamic vinegar. For added crunch, sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds over the top. Feta cheese or goat cheese can also provide a creamy texture that complements the salad’s ingredients beautifully. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can introduce an aromatic element that elevates this dish even further.

Can I meal prep Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad?

Yes, you can meal prep Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad! To keep it fresh throughout the week, store each ingredient separately until ready to serve. Keep avocados from browning by adding them just before serving or by tossing them with lime juice. Store the salad dressing in a separate container to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to eat, combine everything for a quick and nutritious meal that’s full of flavor.

What variations can I try with Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad?

There are many delicious variations you can try with Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad! You might add grilled chicken or turkey for protein or substitute nuts with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for extra crunch. Seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches could also be used instead of blackberries for a different twist. Incorporating grains such as quinoa or farro will provide additional texture and make it more filling.

Conclusion for Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad:

In conclusion, the Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad is not only visually appealing but also exceptionally nutritious. With its balance of flavors from sweet blackberries, creamy avocado, and peppery arugula, this salad delivers on taste while offering numerous health benefits. Whether you choose to add proteins or experiment with dressings, this versatile dish can fit various dietary needs effortlessly. Enjoy this refreshing salad as a light lunch or a side dish at dinner!

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Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad

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Blackberry, Avocado, and Arugula Salad is a refreshing medley that celebrates the vibrant flavors of summer. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the juicy sweetness of blackberries and the peppery bite of arugula, creating a delightful dish that’s as nutritious as it is beautiful. Whether you serve it at a picnic or as an elegant side for dinner, this salad is quick to prepare in just 20 minutes. Enjoy a burst of freshness in every bite!

• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 1 large ripe avocado
• 1 cup fresh blackberries
• 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse arugula and blackberries under cold water; pat dry.
2. Halve the avocado, remove the pit, scoop out the flesh, and slice into wedges.
3. Thinly slice the red onion.
4. In a large bowl, combine arugula, avocado, blackberries, and red onion.
5. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
6. Drizzle dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat.

• Author: Emmeline
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (200g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Add toasted nuts or seeds for an extra crunch. Incorporate feta cheese for added creaminess. Substitute seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches for a different flavor twist.