Blackberry Salad is a flavor-packed favorite with juicy blackberries, candied pecans, crisp pears, and tangy feta, all tossed in a creamy poppy seed dressing.
Author’s Notes
Sweet, Crunchy & So Good!
I’ll be honest, salads are mostly about the toppings and dressing for me, and this one has all the good stuff: juicy blackberries, crisp pears, creamy goat cheese, crunchy candied pecans, and plenty of poppy seed dressing.
It started with a reliable dressing and candied pecans, then I found the juiciest blackberries at the store and built the rest from there. Pears and goat cheese sounded reliable with everything, and after one bite, I was pretty sure I’d found my new favorite summer salad!
I make this every summer when blackberries are at their peak. Add some grilled chicken or steak, and you’ve got the kind of fresh, colorful dinner you’ll want on repeat constantly!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Blackberry Salad:
| Ingredient | Tip |
|---|---|
| Spring Lettuce Mix | Spring mix is a reliable here, but spinach or arugula also work great. |
| Blackberries | Use firm, plump berries for the best flavor. Wash and dry well. |
| Pears | Slice right before serving so they don’t brown. |
| Candied Pecans | Store-bought works, but from-scratch adds the best crunch and flavor. |
| Goat Cheese or Feta | Crumble evenly so every bite gets a little creamy, tangy cheese. |
Quick Tip
Extra candied pecans? Toss them on a yogurt bowl, acai bowl, or use them to decorate a carrot cake!
chelsea’s recipe tip
My Top Blackberry Salad Tips
- Prep ahead: Make the candied pecans and dressing a few days ahead of time.
- No ripe pears? Use canned pears, drained and sliced thin. To check ripeness, press near the stem—if it’s slightly soft, it’s ready.
- Stop browning: Toss sliced pears with lemon juice to keep them fresh.
Storage
Leftovers?
Blackberry Salad is best fresh. Once dressed, the lettuce wilts, the pears brown, and the pecans soften.
If making ahead, store everything separately. Slice the pears and toss the salad just before eating..
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Blueberry Salad
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Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
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Sweet Potato Farro Salad
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