Sweetheart Berry Poppy Salad

My friend Sarah brought this salad to a summer dinner party last year, and I honestly couldn't stop thinking about it. The dressing alone had three of us asking for the recipe before dessert even hit the table. There's something about the combination of sweet berries and that tangy poppy seed dressing that makes everything feel lighter, more like a celebration than just a salad.

I made this for Valentine's Day dinner and my husband kept asking if I'd bought the dressing from somewhere special. The way the feta gets creamy against the cold berries is something I never knew I needed until that first bite. Now it's our go-to when we want something that feels special but doesn't require turning on the oven.

Ingredients

• Mixed baby greens: Spring mix works perfectly here, but honestly any tender greens will do the job
• Fresh berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are the classic trio, but any combination that looks good at the market works
• Toasted nuts: Pecans add this lovely buttery crunch, though walnuts are just as wonderful if that's what you have on hand
• Feta or goat cheese: The salty creaminess balances all that sweet berry brightness perfectly
• Olive oil: Extra virgin gives the dressing that rich, fruity base that ties everything together
• Honey: Just enough to make the dressing sing without being cloyingly sweet
• Apple cider vinegar: Adds the perfect tangy kick that cuts through the rich ingredients
• Greek yogurt or mayonnaise: This little secret makes the dressing creamy without being heavy
• Dijon mustard: Helps everything emulsify and adds that subtle spicy depth
• Poppy seeds: These tiny seeds add such a pleasant crunch and look beautiful speckled throughout

Instructions

Whisk together your dressing:

In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Whisk until it looks smooth and creamy, like something you'd want to drizzle on everything.

Build your berry base:

Gently toss mixed greens with strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries in your prettiest large bowl. Be gentle with those raspberries, they bruise so easily.

Add the finishing touches:

Drizzle that gorgeous dressing over everything right before serving, toss lightly until every leaf glistens, then scatter toasted nuts and crumbled cheese across the top like you're plating in a restaurant.

Pin it

Last summer I served this at a birthday brunch and watched my usually salad-hating nephew go back for thirds. There's this moment when everyone takes their first bite and the table just goes quiet, followed immediately by asking what's in that dressing. That's when you know something special just happened.

Make It Your Own

I've swapped in sliced peaches when berries weren't in season, and honestly, it might be even better. The point is using whatever fresh fruit looks most inviting at the market that day.

Serving Suggestions

This pairs beautifully with anything grilled, especially chicken or salmon with some lemon. But honestly, I've eaten an enormous bowl of this for dinner with nothing but a crusty baguette and called it a perfect meal.

Meal Prep Magic

You can prep everything except the dressing and final toss up to a day ahead. Keep the berries and greens separate, store the nuts in an airtight container, and you'll have restaurant-worthy salad ready in minutes.

• Wash and dry greens thoroughly, then store between paper towels to prevent sogginess
• Wait to slice strawberries until you're ready to serve, or they'll start weeping and make everything watery
• Toast nuts in advance and keep them in a sealed container, that way they're ready to sprinkle

Pin it

There's something deeply satisfying about a salad that feels this special and comes together this quickly. Hope it becomes a favorite at your table too.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute the cheese in this salad?

Yes, you can omit the cheese for a dairy-free option or use plant-based alternatives to suit dietary preferences.

→ What nuts work best in this berry salad?

Toasted pecans or walnuts provide a lovely crunch and complement the sweetness of the berries well.

→ How should I store the dressing if not used immediately?

Store the poppy seed dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Shake well before use.

→ Can this salad be prepared in advance?

Prepare the dressing and chop ingredients ahead, but combine just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

→ Are there easy protein additions for this salad?

Grilled chicken or shrimp can be added for extra protein, enhancing this refreshing salad without overpowering flavors.