Cranberry Blueberry Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Dressing Recipe

If you’re looking for a vibrant, refreshing dish that perfectly balances sweet, tart, and savory flavors, you’ve got to try this Cranberry Blueberry Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Dressing Recipe. It’s like a burst of fresh berries combined with the crunch of walnuts and the creamy tang of feta, all brought together by a luscious blueberry balsamic dressing that’s nothing short of magical. This salad isn’t just beautiful to look at—it’s an explosion of textures and tastes that will brighten up any meal or gathering with its dazzling colors and delightful zing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping this salad simple is key to letting each fresh ingredient shine through. Every component plays a special role—from the tartness of cranberries and blueberries to the slight bite of red onion, the crunchy walnuts, and the creamy feta. Plus, the dressing ingredients come together to enhance and unify all those wonderful flavors effortlessly.

• 2 cups fresh cranberries: Provides vibrant color and a wonderfully tart kick to contrast the sweetness.
• 1 cup fresh blueberries: Adds natural sweetness and juiciness, balancing the tart cranberries beautifully.
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion: Brings a subtle sharpness and crunch for added texture.
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts: Offers an earthy crunch that complements the fruity flavors perfectly.
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Delivers creamy, salty notes that enrich each bite.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Sweetens the dressing naturally, mellowing the tartness of the berries.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps create a smooth dressing and adds a rich base flavor.
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Infuses a deep, tangy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with blueberries.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Provides a hint of sharpness, giving the dressing a pleasant depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, ensuring balance.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that livens up the dish.

How to Make Cranberry Blueberry Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Fresh Berries

Start by rinsing your fresh cranberries under cold water. This step ensures they’re clean and ready to shine in the salad. Set them aside in a colander so they can drain, preventing your salad from getting watery.

Step 2: Gently Wash Blueberries

Next, take your blueberries and rinse them carefully under cold water as well. Be gentle since blueberries are delicate and can burst if handled roughly. Drain them well before adding to the salad.

Step 3: Chop the Red Onion

Peel a fresh red onion and chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. This will add a piquant crunch and a mild sharpness, offsetting the sweetness from the berries beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare the Walnuts

If your walnuts aren’t already chopped, break them into smaller chunks. This makes them easier to mix evenly throughout the salad and gives you that delicious nutty bite in every forkful.

Step 5: Crumble the Feta Cheese

Take your feta cheese and crumble it into small pieces with your fingers or a fork. The creamy, salty feta contrasts perfectly with the fruit’s sweetness and brings a luscious texture to the mix.

Step 6: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, toss together the cranberries, blueberries, chopped red onion, walnuts, and crumbled feta cheese. Stir gently to distribute everything evenly but carefully to avoid crushing the berries.

Step 7: Make the Blueberry Balsamic Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until you have a smooth, well-combined dressing. This dressing is where the magic happens; it brings the entire salad to life with its sweet-tangy charm.

Step 8: Dress the Salad

Drizzle the blueberry balsamic dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything gently so each ingredient is coated thoroughly without breaking up the berries. This ensures every bite is perfectly flavored.

Step 9: Taste and Adjust

Give your salad a quick taste test. If it needs a bit more seasoning, add salt or black pepper to your liking. The beauty of the Cranberry Blueberry Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Dressing Recipe is how easily you can customize it to your palate.

Step 10: Serve or Chill

Serve the salad immediately for the freshest, most vibrant flavors. Alternatively, you can refrigerate it for up to an hour, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together.

How to Serve Cranberry Blueberry Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Dressing Recipe

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves or a few extra walnuts on top as a garnish. These small touches not only enhance the presentation but boost the fresh, nutty flavors already present.

Side Dishes

This salad shines next to grilled chicken or fish for a light, summery meal. It also pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or even as a colorful side for a holiday spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, consider serving your Cranberry Blueberry Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Dressing Recipe in individual glass jars or on a bed of mixed greens. It’s a showstopper that brightens any table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 24 hours to maintain the bright flavors and crisp textures.

Freezing

This salad is best eaten fresh due to the fresh berries and feta cheese. Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture and flavor significantly.

Reheating

Since this salad is served cold and fresh, reheating is not necessary. Simply toss again if the dressing settles before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Fresh berries provide the best texture and flavor for this salad. Frozen berries tend to be softer and watery once thawed, which can make the salad soggy.

Is it possible to make the dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the blueberry balsamic dressing up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good whisk before using.

Can I substitute walnuts with another nut?

Yes, pecans or almonds work well as alternatives, adding their own unique crunch and flavor.

How long will the salad keep if not eaten immediately?

It’s best eaten within a day of preparation for peak freshness. The berries start to soften and the salad can lose its crispness after 24 hours.

Can this salad be made vegan?

Definitely! Simply omit the feta or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative or toasted seeds for a similar texture and flavor boost.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Blueberry Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Dressing Recipe is genuinely one of those delightful discoveries you’ll want to share with everyone you know. It’s fresh, colorful, and packed with flavors that dance on your palate in the best way. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, a side, or a light meal, it promises to uplift your day and your table. Go ahead, give this vibrant salad a try—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!

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