Blueberry Pistachio Spring Salad

This vibrant blueberry pistachio spring salad combines sweet and savory flavors for the perfect light meal. The colorful mix of fresh spring greens, juicy blueberries, crunchy pistachios, and tangy feta creates a restaurant-quality salad that's surprisingly simple to prepare at home.

I first created this salad for a springtime ladies' lunch, and it was such a hit that it's now requested at every gathering. The combination of colors alone makes it worthy of special occasions, but it's simple enough for everyday meals.

Ingredients

• Spring mix salad greens: Forms the perfect tender base with mild flavor
• Butter lettuce: Adds crispness and subtle sweetness
• Candied pistachios: Provide sweetness and irresistible crunch
• Red onion: Delivers a sharp bite that balances the sweeter elements
• Watermelon radish: Creates stunning visual appeal and peppery crunch
• Avocado: Contributes creamy richness and healthy fats
• Fresh blueberries: Burst with sweet juice and antioxidants
• Pomegranate arils: Add jewel toned pops of tartness
• Crumbled feta cheese: Brings salty tanginess to tie everything together
• Creamy pomegranate dressing: Coats every ingredient with sweet tangy flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Base:

Gently toss the spring mix and chopped butter lettuce together until evenly combined. Arrange this vibrant foundation on a large platter if serving family style, or divide among individual bowls for plated service. The mix of lettuces creates the perfect backdrop for the colorful toppings.

Add the Toppings:

Layer all your prepared toppings over the greens in an artful arrangement. Place candied pistachios, thinly sliced red onion, watermelon radish slices, avocado, fresh blueberries, pomegranate arils, and crumbled feta across the greens. For maximum visual appeal, distribute ingredients evenly so each serving gets a good mix of colors and textures.

Dress and Serve:

Wait until just before serving to drizzle your creamy pomegranate dressing over the salad. This prevents the greens from wilting prematurely. For an elegant finishing touch, add a few grinds of fresh black pepper. Serve immediately while all ingredients are at their freshest.

Save This

The watermelon radish is my secret weapon in this recipe. When sliced paper thin, it creates stunning pink rings that make the entire salad look like something from a gourmet restaurant. My daughter actually thought they were candy the first time I served this salad!

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be partially prepped up to 24 hours in advance. Wash and dry all greens, slice radishes and red onion, and store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The pomegranate dressing can be made up to 3 days ahead. When ready to serve, simply assemble the components and add the more delicate ingredients like avocado just before serving.

Creative Variations

Turn this side salad into a hearty main course by adding grilled chicken, salmon, or marinated tofu. For a different flavor profile, substitute goat cheese for the feta or try roasted hazelnuts instead of pistachios. In summer, replace blueberries with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a seasonal twist that's equally delicious.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile salad pairs beautifully with grilled proteins, especially salmon or chicken with herb seasonings. For a complete spring meal, serve alongside a chilled soup like cucumber gazpacho or a simple quiche. The bright flavors also complement hearty grain dishes like farro risotto or quinoa pilaf.

The Dressing Deep Dive

The creamy pomegranate dressing truly elevates this salad. Made with pomegranate juice, olive oil, honey, and a touch of Dijon mustard, it strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. For best results, use fresh pomegranate juice rather than bottled, and allow the dressing to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together properly.

Common Queries

→ Can I use a store-bought dressing?

Yes, a store-bought pomegranate dressing like Simply Dressed works nicely if you don't want to make your own.

→ What other greens can I use?

You can substitute spring mix or butter lettuce with spinach, arugula, or romaine for a similar result.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon would pair well with the flavors in this salad.

→ What can I use instead of candied pistachios?

You can use candied walnuts, pecans, or even toasted almonds as an alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add dressing just before serving.