Blueberry Broccoli Salad with Poppyseed Ranch
Ingredients:
Salad Base:
2 cups fresh spinach leaves: These provide a nutrient-rich, leafy green foundation.
1 cup broccoli florets, chopped: Adds a crunchy texture and a boost of vitamins.
1 cup fresh blueberries: Brings a burst of sweetness and antioxidants.
1 avocado, diced: Offers creamy texture and healthy fats.
1/4 cup dried cranberries: Introduces a chewy, sweet-tart element.
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Adds a tangy, savory flavor.
1 tablespoon poppy seeds: Enhances the nutty flavor and provides additional crunch.
For the Poppyseed Ranch Dressing:
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: A creamy, protein-rich base.
1/4 cup buttermilk: Adds tanginess and smooth texture.
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Brings acidity to balance the sweetness.
1 tablespoon honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness.
1 tablespoon poppy seeds: Provides a subtle, nutty flavor.
1 teaspoon dried dill: Adds an herbal note.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory depth.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Balances the overall flavor.
INSTRUCTIONS
Prepare the Salad Base:
Start with the greens: In a large salad bowl, add the 2 cups of fresh spinach leaves as the base. This sets a nutritious foundation for your salad.
Add the crunch: Top the spinach with 1 cup of chopped broccoli florets. Broccoli adds a satisfying crunch and a wealth of nutrients.
Incorporate sweetness: Sprinkle 1 cup of fresh blueberries over the greens. Their natural sweetness complements the savory ingredients.
Add creaminess: Dice 1 avocado and add it to the bowl. Avocado adds a creamy texture and healthy fats.
Introduce chewy texture: Add 1/4 cup of dried cranberries. They bring a chewy, sweet-tart flavor that contrasts beautifully with the other ingredients.
Make the Dressing:
Combine ingredients: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt and 1/4 cup of buttermilk to create a creamy base.
Add flavor elements: Mix in 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds, 1 teaspoon of dried dill, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Season to taste: Add salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing: Pour the poppyseed ranch dressing over the prepared salad.
Add finishing touches: Sprinkle the salad with 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese and an additional 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds for extra crunch and flavor.
Serve:
Toss to coat: Gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Serve immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, either as a refreshing side dish or a light main course.