Description
A fresh and vibrant Mixed Green Salad with a medley of berries, crisp apple, candied pecans, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a homemade creamy poppy seed dressing. This easy-to-make salad combines sweet, tangy, and crunchy elements providing a delightful balance of flavors perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 10 cups mixed greens lettuce (red lettuce, romaine, spinach, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1 sweet apple, chopped
- 1 cup candied pecans
- 1/3 cup feta cheese crumbles
Crema Poppy Seed Dressing
- 5.3 ounces strawberry yogurt
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 small piece red onion
- 2 Tablespoons milk
- 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 Tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: Add strawberry yogurt, mayonnaise, red onion, milk, granulated sugar, and apple cider vinegar to a blender. Blend until completely smooth.
- Adjust the Flavor: Taste the dressing and adjust by adding more vinegar for tanginess, extra sugar for sweetness, or additional mayo and milk for creaminess as desired. Stir in poppy seeds to finish. Refrigerate the dressing for up to 2 weeks if making ahead.
- Make Candied Pecans: If not using store-bought, prepare candied pecans according to your preferred method and allow them to cool.
- Prepare the Produce: Wash and dry all berries thoroughly. Slice the strawberries, dice the red onion, and chop the apple into bite-size pieces.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the mixed greens. Top with strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, diced red onion, chopped apple, candied pecans, and feta cheese crumbles. For a professional look, reserve a small portion of each topping to sprinkle on at the end.
- Toss and Serve: Drizzle desired amount of creamy poppy seed dressing over the salad. Toss gently until well combined. Add reserved toppings if desired. Serve immediately for best freshness.
Notes
- The dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 weeks for convenience.
- Candied pecans can be prepared at home or purchased pre-made to save time.
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans lightly before candying or adding to the salad.
- If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute the strawberry yogurt and mayonnaise with appropriate alternatives.
- Feel free to swap the apple for pears or other seasonal fruit for variety.
