There’s something magical about summer—warm breezes, sun-kissed afternoons, and the vibrant bounty of fresh berries. One of my favorite ways to celebrate this season is with a light, refreshing berry salad with lemon herb dressing. This dish holds a special place in my heart, reminiscent of lazy garden lunches at Nonna’s, where bowls of juicy strawberries, blueberries, and herbs overflowed on the table, dressed in a creamy, citrusy dressing made from scratch.
This salad isn’t just a feast for the senses—it’s a celebration of simplicity and seasonal flavor. Whether you’re planning a weekend picnic, a backyard barbecue, or a healthy midweek lunch, this recipe delivers color, texture, and nutrition in every bite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Berry Salad
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 10 minutes, no cooking required!
- Healthy & Fresh: Loaded with antioxidants, vitamin C, and natural sweetness.
- Versatile: A wonderful side dish or light main course.
- Stunning Presentation: It’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
- Naturally Sweet & Tangy: The perfect balance of summer flavors.
Ingredients for Berry Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing
For the Salad:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 cup baby spinach or arugula (optional for a green base)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional for tangy contrast)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or slivered almonds (for crunch)
- Fresh mint or basil leaves for garnish
For the Creamy Lemon Herb Dressing:
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional for richness)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs (dill, parsley, basil, or a mix)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Prep Time & Nutritional Info
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Calories: ~220 per serving
- Servings: 2–3
How to Make the Perfect Summer Berry Salad
Step 1: Wash & Prep the Berries
Gently rinse your strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries under cold water. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Slice the strawberries into halves or quarters depending on size.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base
If you’re using greens like baby spinach or arugula, lay them at the bottom of a large salad bowl. This adds a peppery bite and more volume to the salad.
Step 3: Add the Berries
Layer the fresh berries on top of the greens. Scatter them gently to distribute the colors and textures evenly.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Lemon Herb Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, and chopped herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The result is a creamy, citrusy dressing that brings brightness and balance.
Step 5: Dress & Toss
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat without bruising the berries.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Top the salad with crumbled feta, nuts for crunch, and a few sprigs of mint or basil for a fragrant finish.
Nutritional Benefits of Berry Salad
Each ingredient in this berry salad with lemon herb dressing adds not just flavor, but also a nutritional boost:
- Berries are rich in antioxidants like anthocyanins and vitamin C, which support immune health and fight inflammation.
- Greek yogurt provides probiotics and protein to help digestion and satiety.
- Nuts contribute heart-healthy fats and magnesium.
- Herbs and lemon juice offer detoxifying properties and elevate the salad with bright, fresh flavor.
This makes the salad ideal for those looking for a clean, vibrant dish that energizes rather than weighs you down.
Seasonal Tips for the Perfect Berry Salad
- Peak Season: Make this salad in late spring through summer when berries are sweetest and most flavorful.
- Local & Organic: Opt for locally grown, organic berries when possible. They’re often juicier and more nutrient-dense.
- Chill Ingredients: For a refreshing summer bite, chill your berries and dressing in the fridge before assembling.
What to Serve with Berry Salad
This salad shines as a standalone dish, but it pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken or salmon: Their savory depth balances the sweetness of the berries.
- Chilled soups like gazpacho or cucumber yogurt soup.
- Whole grain sides such as quinoa, couscous, or wild rice.
- Freshly baked bread or herbed focaccia.
And of course, serve with a refreshing summer drink—like iced herbal tea or a citrus spritzer!
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Make It Vegan: Use plant-based yogurt and skip the feta cheese.
- Add Protein: Grilled shrimp, chickpeas, or tofu make great additions.
- Switch the Herbs: Try tarragon, thyme, or even cilantro for a twist.
- Play with the Berries: Use blackberries or cherries if they’re in season.
- Make It a Jar Salad: Layer ingredients in mason jars for a portable picnic option.
Flavor Pairing Ideas
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or light pasta dishes like our Lemon Garlic Scape Pasta for a refreshing summer dinner.
For dessert, why not follow up with Lemon Blueberry Cookies or impress your guests with Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries — a fruity finish to your meal.
Looking to expand your salad repertoire? Dive into our Antipasto Salad guide or perfect your next potluck dish with this ultimate potato salad.
This dish goes hand-in-hand with a refreshing Watermelon Lemonade — cool, hydrating, and flavor-complementary.
Cultural Inspiration
Though this recipe is rooted in American summer cooking, its simplicity and ingredient-driven nature remind me of my grandmother’s Italian kitchen. The use of fresh herbs and lemon harks back to Southern Italy, where food is meant to be light, nourishing, and deeply seasonal. This salad is a modern, transatlantic take on those traditions—blending my love for American innovation with Old World elegance.
Storing Leftovers
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you do have leftovers:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container (store the dressing separately if possible).
- Consume within 24 hours for optimal flavor and texture.
- Avoid freezing, as berries become mushy when thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this berry salad ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best to keep the salad components and dressing separate. Assemble everything just before serving to maintain the texture and freshness of the berries and greens.
2. What berries work best in this salad?
Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are ideal. You can also use blackberries or even pomegranate seeds for a unique twist, depending on availability and preference.
3. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are preferred for their bright flavor and aroma, but you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Use one-third the amount if substituting dry for fresh.
4. Is this salad suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely. It can be made gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan by omitting or substituting certain ingredients (like using dairy-free yogurt and skipping feta).
5. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Consume within 24 hours for the best taste and texture.
Berry Salad with Creamy Lemon Herb Dressing
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 cups mixed salad greens like spinach, arugula, or spring mix
- 1 cup strawberries sliced
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1/2 cup blackberries or raspberries
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese optional
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds or walnuts
For the Creamy Lemon Herb Dressing
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs mint, basil, or parsley
- salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy. Chill while assembling salad.
- In a large bowl, gently toss salad greens with berries, cheese, and nuts.
- Drizzle dressing over the top just before serving and toss lightly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh burst of flavors!
Notes
Conclusion
This berry salad with lemon herb dressing is everything you want in a summer dish—refreshing, colorful, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re preparing a light lunch for yourself or impressing guests at a garden party, this salad brings sunshine to any table.
What makes this recipe stand out is the creamy, citrusy herb dressing that elevates simple berries into a gourmet dish. It’s a delightful reminder that cooking doesn’t need to be complicated to be delicious.
So grab your freshest berries, a bunch of herbs, and whisk up that dreamy lemony dressing. Make it your own, swap in your favorite ingredients, and enjoy the season’s best in every bite. Just don’t forget to savor every spoonful—because that’s what summer cooking is all about.
