Blackberry Avocado Pecan Salad with Goat Cheese

Yield

4 Servings

Prep Time

15 Minutes

Cook Time

5 Minutes

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 5 cups baby spinach or mixed greens

• 1 large avocado, sliced

• 1 cup fresh blackberries

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup goat cheese, crumbled

• ¾ cup pecans

• 2 tbsp chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Candied Pecans

• ¾ cup pecans

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• Pinch of sea salt

Blackberry Balsamic Dressing

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp blackberry preserves

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Candied Pecans

1. Heat a small skillet over medium heat.

2. Add pecans, maple syrup, brown sugar, and salt.

3. Stir constantly for 2–3 minutes.

4. Once coated and fragrant, transfer to parchment paper.

5. Cool completely.

Step 2 – Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, blackberry preserves, and Dijon mustard.

2. Season with salt and black pepper.

3. Continue whisking until smooth.

Step 3 – Assemble the Salad

1. Add spinach or mixed greens to a large serving bowl.

2. Arrange avocado slices evenly across the greens.

3. Scatter fresh blackberries throughout the salad.

4. Add thinly sliced red onion.

5. Sprinkle goat cheese crumbles over the top.

6. Add candied pecans and walnuts.

Step 4 – Finish

1. Drizzle the blackberry balsamic dressing over the salad.

2. Toss gently before serving or serve dressing on the side.

3. Finish with freshly cracked black pepper.

Chef's Tips

• Use ripe but firm avocados for the best presentation.

• Chill the blackberries before serving for extra freshness.

• Feta cheese can replace goat cheese if preferred.

• Toasting the pecans before candying enhances flavor.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 390 kcal

• Protein: 8 g

• Fat: 30 g

• Carbohydrates: 24 g

• Fiber: 9 g

Result

A vibrant salad featuring creamy avocado, juicy blackberries, tangy goat cheese, sweet candied pecans, and crisp greens tossed in a blackberry balsamic vinaigrette—closely matching the fresh and colorful salad shown in the image.