Mediterranean Blackberry & Avocado Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette
The Mediterranean Blackberry & Avocado Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette is a refreshing, antioxidant-rich salad that combines sweet, juicy blackberries, creamy avocado, crisp cucumbers, and salty feta with crunchy greens and toasted nuts. Drizzled with a zesty honey lemon vinaigrette, this vibrant dish is bursting with bold Mediterranean flair and a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Perfect as a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or even a picnic centerpiece, this salad offers a beautiful balance of fruity brightness, herby freshness, and satisfying richness—while remaining simple and wholesome.
Time Required
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2–4 (as a side or main salad)
Ingredients
For the Salad:
4 cups mixed greens (arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix)
1 cup fresh blackberries
1 ripe avocado, sliced or cubed
½ cup cucumber, thinly sliced
¼ small red onion, very thinly sliced
⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons toasted almonds or walnuts (sliced or chopped)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
For the Honey Lemon Vinaigrette:
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup)
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for creaminess)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Make the Vinaigrette
In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.
Shake or whisk until well combined. Set aside.
2. Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl or platter, layer the greens, blackberries, cucumbers, and red onion.
Gently tuck in the avocado slices or cubes.
Sprinkle with crumbled feta and toasted nuts.
3. Dress and Serve
Drizzle vinaigrette evenly over the salad just before serving.
Garnish with chopped mint or parsley.
Serve immediately for the freshest taste and texture.
Tips for Success
Use Ripe Avocado: Look for avocados that give slightly when pressed—too firm and they’ll be bland, too soft and they’ll mush.
Toss Gently: If mixing, toss the salad gently to avoid squishing the blackberries or avocado.
Balance Sweet and Savory: Taste the vinaigrette before adding. Adjust with more honey for sweetness or lemon for brightness.
Toast Nuts Fresh: Toast nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until fragrant for best flavor.
Variations
Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
Vegan Version: Use maple syrup instead of honey and omit or replace feta with vegan cheese.
Fruit Swap: Substitute blackberries with raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries.
Nut-Free: Use toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch without allergens.
Herb Boost: Add fresh dill or basil for extra Mediterranean flavor.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, but store the dressing separately and slice the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
Q: What type of greens work best?
A: Arugula and spinach offer a great balance of peppery and tender texture. Mixed baby greens also work well.
Q: Can I use frozen blackberries?
A: Not recommended—they become too soft and watery for fresh salads.
Q: How do I keep avocado from browning?
A: Toss avocado slices in lemon juice before adding to the salad if prepping ahead.
Q: Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
A: You can prep most ingredients in advance, but combine and dress just before eating for freshness.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)
Calories: 220
Protein: 5g
Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 210mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredient brands and amounts used.
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Blackberry & Avocado Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette is a truly refreshing blend of sweet, creamy, tangy, and crunchy. It’s a feast for the eyes and the palate, combining nutrition and flavor in one effortless dish. Whether you’re elevating your everyday salad routine or looking for a showpiece to impress at your next gathering, this salad delivers elegance and nourishment with every forkful.