If you’re anything like me, berry season is one of the best times of the year. This berry fruit salad is a celebration of all things juicy and sweet—strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and more. Whether served for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, it’s always a welcome burst of flavor.
I love how the glaze adds just the right touch of sweetness. It’s super easy to throw together, and honestly, it looks as good as it tastes! Plus, it’s a great way to make use of those berries when they’re in season. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients List
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
– 1 cup blueberries
– 1 cup raspberries
– 1 cup blackberries
– 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– A handful of fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Berries
Gently rinse all the berries under cool water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Make sure they are thoroughly dried to prevent any excess water from diluting the glaze.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey (or agave syrup), lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Berries and Glaze
Place all the berries in a large mixing bowl. Pour the glaze over the berries and gently toss them to ensure they are evenly coated.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the berry salad into a deep ceramic bowl for serving. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an added burst of color and flavor.
Ways to Improve It
1. Add a sprinkle of chia seeds or flax seeds for a nutritional boost.
2. Mix in some finely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch.
3. Incorporate small cubes of soft cheese like feta or goat cheese for creaminess.
4. Drizzle a balsamic glaze for a tangy contrast.
5. Use a mix of citrus juices (like orange or lime) instead of just lemon for more complex flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This berry salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish as a refreshing side dish. It also complements breakfast items like pancakes or waffles beautifully. For a dessert twist, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a slice of pound cake.
Substitutions
1. Swap honey/agave with maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
2. Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a slightly different tang.
3. Replace mint with basil for an interesting herbal twist.
Recipe Variations
1. Add sliced kiwi or mango chunks for extra tropical vibes.
2. Mix in pomegranate seeds for added texture and color.
3. Substitute half of the strawberries with diced peaches during peach season.
4. Incorporate some chopped fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an earthy dimension.
And there you have it—a simple yet delicious berry fruit salad that’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes for any occasion!
