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This bright and refreshing blackberry chicken salad combines peppery arugula with sweet berries, creamy avocado, and protein-packed chicken for a perfect summer meal. The simple lime vinaigrette ties everything together with a tangy zip that complements the juicy berries and savory elements.
I first created this salad when blackberries were overflowing in my garden last July. What started as a simple way to use the abundance of berries quickly became my most requested dish for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- Arugula: 5 cups - The peppery bite balances the sweet berries. Look for fresh vibrant greens with no wilting.
- Blackberries: 1 cup - Provide juicy sweetness and are the star ingredient. Choose plump berries with uniform color.
- Blueberries: 3/4 cup - Add additional sweetness and visual contrast. Opt for firm berries with a silvery bloom.
- Cucumber: 1 1/2 cups - Delivers refreshing crunch and hydration. English cucumbers have fewer seeds and thinner skin.
- Avocado: 1 - Creates creamy richness and healthy fats. Select slightly firm avocados that yield to gentle pressure.
- Fresh mint: 2 tbsp - Adds bright aromatic notes and freshness. Use young leaves for the best flavor.
- Hazelnuts: 1/3 cup toasted - Provide nutty crunch and depth. Take time to toast for maximum flavor development.
- Feta cheese: 1/3 cup - Contributes salty creaminess. Traditional sheep milk feta offers the most authentic taste.
- Lime juice: 2 tbsp - Forms the acidic base of the dressing. Always use freshly squeezed for vibrant flavor.
- Olive oil: 1/3 cup - Creates body and richness in the dressing. Use high quality extra virgin for best results.
- Maple syrup: 1 tbsp - Balances acidity with natural sweetness. Real maple syrup has more complex flavor than substitutes.
- Salt: 3/4 tsp - Enhances all flavors throughout the dish. Flaky sea salt works beautifully as a finishing touch.
- Pepper: To taste - Adds gentle heat and depth. Freshly ground provides the most aromatic punch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the vinaigrette:
- Combine lime juice, maple syrup, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking constantly until the mixture emulsifies and thickens slightly. This technique creates a perfectly balanced dressing that will coat each ingredient evenly without separating.
- Toast the hazelnuts:
- Place hazelnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently. Watch them carefully as they can quickly go from perfectly toasted to burnt. The skins will begin to crack and the nuts will become fragrant when ready. Allow to cool before roughly chopping.
- Assemble the salad:
- Place arugula in a large serving bowl and layer cucumber slices, avocado chunks, blackberries, blueberries, and chicken on top. Scatter with mint leaves, toasted hazelnuts, and crumbled feta. This layered approach creates visual appeal and ensures each serving contains all elements.
- Dress and serve:
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat all ingredients without bruising the berries. Use your hands or large salad servers to ensure thorough but gentle mixing.
The hazelnuts are my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered their perfect pairing with blackberries during a trip to Oregon wine country where a local chef served a similar combination. The toasty richness against the juicy berries creates a contrast that elevates this from a simple salad to something truly memorable.
Berry Selection Secrets
Always inspect your berries carefully before purchasing. The containers should be stain-free, indicating the berries are fresh and not overly ripe. For blackberries, look for plump drupelets with deep color but avoid any with reddish tints which signal underripeness. Blueberries should have a silvery bloom, the natural protective coating that indicates they haven't been overhandled. If possible, taste a berry before buying a whole batch, as sweetness can vary dramatically.
Protein Options
While chicken makes this a satisfying main dish, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit different dietary preferences. For a vegetarian version, substitute white beans or grilled halloumi cheese. Vegans might enjoy marinated and grilled tofu or tempeh. Seafood lovers could add grilled shrimp or salmon, which pairs beautifully with the berries. Whatever protein you choose, aim for about 4 ounces per person and season simply with salt and pepper to let the salad ingredients shine.
Make It A Meal
Transform this salad into a complete dinner by adding a whole grain base. Cooked and cooled quinoa, wild rice, or farro add delightful texture and make the salad more substantial. For a beautiful presentation, place the grains on the bottom of your serving dish, then layer the remaining ingredients on top. This approach creates a complete meal in one bowl with complex carbohydrates, proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of vitamins and minerals.
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This salad brings together the best of summer: bright, fresh flavors with plenty of room for personal twists. It’s sure to impress every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can use grilled tofu, white beans, or cooked quinoa as a protein alternative to chicken.
- → What’s a good substitution for hazelnuts?
If you don’t have hazelnuts, try toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans for similar crunch and flavor.
- → How can I make this salad vegan?
Use vegan feta and substitute chicken with grilled tofu or beans to make the dish completely vegan.
- → Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance, but wait to toss the salad with the vinaigrette until just before serving to ensure freshness.
- → What other greens can I use instead of arugula?
If you don’t have arugula, you can use spinach, baby kale, or mixed spring greens as a replacement.
- → Can I use frozen berries for this salad?
Fresh berries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but you can use thawed frozen berries in a pinch. Be sure to drain excess liquid.
- → What should I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with crusty bread, a cup of soup, or a glass of chilled white wine for a complete meal.