Few things say summer like colorful, juicy fresh berries! We love mixing them into our favorite salads. They add so much flavor while balancing the savory of the protein-packed grilled chicken and smoky bacon.
Berries are also great sources of antioxidants, including the powerful rutin bioflavonoid. Berry benefits include:
Fiber. Raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries pack up to 6.5 grams of fiber per 3.5-oz. serving.
Antioxidants. Berries can fight cellular damage, which helps prevent many illnesses and diseases.
Blood sugar health.Studies show that berries can help regular blood sugar levels
Skin health. Berries can help fight premature aging and collagen loss.
Plus, you'll love this salad's fresh raspberry-balsamic vinaigrette! You can also substitute chicken with your favorite protein, like grilled shrimp, or tofu if you prefer a meat-free option.
Few things say summer like colorful, juicy fresh berries!
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
8 cups fresh spring mix lettuce
1/2 cup each of blueberries, raspberries, and sliced strawberries
1/4 cup blackberries
1/4 cup feta or gorgonzola cheese (or more if you prefer)
1 cup pecan halves, walnut halves, or slivered almonds
3-5 strips of bacon, cooked and chopped small
1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, grilled, seasoned with salt and pepper, and diced
Raspberry Vinaigrette Dressing
6 oz. fresh raspberries, rinsed
1 Tbsp. white sugar
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
6 Tbsp. canola oil
1.5 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
1 Tbsp. honey
Juice from 1/2 lemon
Directions
Raspberry Vinaigrette Instructions
Rinse raspberries. Add to a bowl with the white sugar. Mash well with a fork or back of a spoon.
In a glass jar with a lid, such as a Mason jar, add balsamic vinegar, honey, red wine vinegar, canola oil, and lemon juice. Cover jar tightly and shake well.
Place raspberries and sugar into a fine sieve and place over a bowl. Using a rubber spatula, smash the berries well, straining as much juice as possible into the bowl. Add to the rest of the ingredients in the glass jar and shake well again.
Salad Instructions
After grilling chicken breast, let cool and dice.
Add cooled chicken to large salad bowl with greens, bacon, cheese, nuts, and berries. Toss well.
Top with dressing as desired. Add salt and pepper as desired.
