Get ready for a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures in every bite: the Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad is a celebration of contrasts. Sweet blackberries, creamy avocado, peppery arugula, and crisp cucumbers are tossed with fresh mint and a bright maple-lime vinaigrette, then topped with crunchy hazelnuts and creamy feta. This salad combines nutrition, beauty, and freshness in a single bowl, making it perfect as a light meal or a memorable side dish that’s sure to wow your table.

Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients transform this dish into something truly sensational. Each element brings its own magic, from color to flavor or crunch, and together they create a salad that feels both special and effortless. Here’s what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters:

Arugula: Offers a peppery, fresh base that balances the sweet and creamy elements.
Blackberries: Juicy bursts of sweetness that tie the salad together and provide a gorgeous pop of color.
Blueberries: Adds extra sweetness and color contrast, plus even more antioxidants.
Avocado: Brings creaminess and richness, making every bite feel decadent.
Cucumber (sliced thinly): Gives refreshing crunch and lightness, perfect for balancing the richness of avocado and feta.
Feta Cheese: Creamy, salty, and tangy; just a little bit makes the salad incredibly satisfying.
Toasted Hazelnuts: Crunchy, nutty, and aromatic—don’t skip the toasting step for extra flavor!
Olive Oil (for vinaigrette): The smooth foundation of the dressing that coats every ingredient.
Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice: Adds zesty acidity and brightness to the vinaigrette.
Maple Syrup (or liquid sweetener): Introduces a subtle, natural sweetness that’s irresistible with citrus.
Fresh Mint (finely chopped): Lifts every mouthful with unexpected freshness—don’t skimp!
Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all the vibrant flavors.

How to Make Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, maple syrup (or your preferred liquid sweetener), finely chopped mint, salt, and a generous grind of pepper. Give it a little taste and adjust the saltiness or acidity as needed—this vinaigrette is going to tie all those gorgeous ingredients together!

Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base

In your largest salad bowl (trust me, you want space to toss), add the arugula, blackberries, blueberries, avocado, and sliced cucumber. Each ingredient should be evenly distributed, so every forkful gets a bit of everything.

Step 3: Add the Crunch and Creaminess

Sprinkle the feta cheese and toasted hazelnuts over the top of the greens and fruit. The feta will begin to melt just slightly into the salad as it absorbs some vinaigrette—so irresistible.

Step 4: Dress and Toss

Drizzle the vinaigrette all over your beautiful mound of salad ingredients. Using clean hands or salad tongs, gently toss everything together until the vinaigrette evenly coats each leaf and berry. This step is where the Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad really comes alive.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Transfer to individual bowls or a serving platter and enjoy fresh. This salad shines brightest when served right away, so those avocados stay creamy and the arugula, crunchy!

How to Serve Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad

Garnishes

For a striking finishing touch, save a few blackberries and mint leaves to sprinkle over the top just before you serve. A final dusting of flaky sea salt or a grind of fresh black pepper adds both flavor and drama—your Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad will look chef-crafted!

Side Dishes

This salad is versatile and can play sidekick to so many main courses. Try it with grilled chicken, salmon, or even a simple quiche for a light lunch. For a vegetarian feast, pair it with crusty bread, hummus, or a grain bowl.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn the salad into a showstopper by plating it on a large, white platter and arranging the blackberries and avocados on top in artful swirls. Alternatively, serve in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the rainbow of colors, or portion into jars for a picnic-friendly portable treat. The Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad is endlessly adaptable for any occasion!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The arugula may wilt a little, but the flavors actually meld together beautifully. For best results, store the vinaigrette separately and toss just before eating.

Freezing

I wouldn’t recommend freezing the Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad. Freezing damages the delicate berries, avocado, and leafy greens, resulting in a mushy texture once thawed. For best flavor and presentation, enjoy this salad fresh!

Reheating

No reheating required—this salad is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you want to revive leftovers, a quick toss and a squeeze of fresh lime will perk everything up.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of green instead of arugula?

Absolutely! While arugula gives the salad its signature pepperiness, spinach or baby mixed greens make excellent swaps if you prefer a milder taste or want to use what you have on hand.

What can I substitute for hazelnuts?

If you don’t have hazelnuts, toasted pecans, walnuts, or sliced almonds are all delicious alternatives. The key is to pick a nut that adds both texture and a bit of richness to complement the fruit and greens.

Is there a vegan option for the feta?

Definitely! Crumbled plant-based feta or even cubes of marinated tofu can deliver the same creamy, salty punch to your Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad—dairy-free delight!

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

You can whisk up the vinaigrette a day or two in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using, as some separation is natural.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Toss the diced avocado in a bit of lime juice before adding to the salad. The lime’s acidity slows browning and keeps the avocado looking and tasting beautifully fresh.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a salad that’s as satisfying as it is gorgeous, the Blackberry, Avocado and Arugula Salad will absolutely steal the show. Each ingredient shines, and together they create something you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to eat salad!