Citrus and Blueberry Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Citrus and Blueberry Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette that's sweet, tangy, and packed with a crunch! This citrus salad recipe includes oranges, blueberries, walnuts, pepper jack cheese, and a homemade lemon vinaigrette. Now that's my kinda salad! 

Fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor, this blueberry citrus salad with lemon vinaigrette is the perfect light meal or side dish. Sweet blueberries, juicy oranges, crunchy walnuts, and creamy pepper jack cheese come together on a bed of fresh greens for a salad that feels both refreshing and filling.

This salad is especially perfect in the spring and summer when blueberries are in season. The homemade lemon vinaigrette adds a bright, tangy flavor that ties everything together.

Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a healthy side dish for dinner, or a colorful salad for entertaining, this citrus blueberry salad is an easy recipe that comes together in just 10 minutes.

Why You'll Love this Citrus Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing

I've said it before, and I'm gonna say it again, salads don't have to be boring! I'm not one to eat a basic lettuce salad with ranch dressing. If you do, then great. That's just not me. I like salads with flavors and twists like this citrus salad recipe with blueberries. This salad is:

• Hearty and filling.
• Great for meal prep.
• Perfect, packable weekday lunch.
• Quick and easy, ready in under 10 minutes.
• Sweet and savory flavor combination.
• Vegetarian.

📋 Ingredients for this Citrus Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing

• Homemade Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing. Make this first so you can zest the orange and use it in the salad, and let the flavors absorb while you're prepping everything else! This is made with fresh-squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, orange zest, black pepper, sea salt, and honey (or maple syrup).

• Salad Mix. The base of the salad. I used a 5 oz bag of baby spring salad mix for its convenience. You can use spinach, lettuce of your choice, and any leafy greens!
• Navel Oranges or Cuties. Juicy citrus that balances the berries. I had these on hand, but I've made this with cuties, too! 
• Fresh Blueberries. Add natural sweetness and antioxidants. Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. When in season and sweet, these give the perfect amount of sweetness balance to your salad.
• Raw Chopped Walnuts. This is a great way for vegetarians to add protein and good fats. Plus, it adds the perfect crunch!
• Pepper Jack Cheese Slices. Adds a little creamy texture with a very milky kick. I like to use Tillamook as it does not contain animal rennet. I cut the slices into long pieces.

📖 Instructions for Citrus Salad

• Step 1. Prepare the dressing by mixing all of the ingredients and the. Whisking until emulsified.
• Step 2. In a large bowl, add the baby spring mix, blueberries, oranges (from the zested orange), and walnuts. Toss well. Add pepper jack cheese pieces at the top. 
• Step 3. Serve into individual salad plates and top with dressing!

Variations and Substitutions

• To make it vegan, swap vegan cheese of your choice for pepper jack. Instead of honey, use maple syrup.
• Try different nuts like almonds or pecans.
• Add avocado for an extra bit of creaminess.
• Change up the greens and use arugula or spinach.

Top Tips and Storage

• Before adding the oranges to your salad, zest the orange for the lemon vinaigrette dressing! 
• You may store any remaining dressing and salad in separate containers in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
• If you choose to prep the salad in advance, I recommend keeping the following in separate containers and combining when serving or ready to eat: fruits, cheese, and dressing.
• I like making the dressing ahead so the garlic flavors really saturate it.

FAQ

What greens work best for blueberry salad?
Spinach, arugula, or spring mix work best because their mild flavor complements the sweetness of blueberries.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the dressing separate until serving to prevent the greens from wilting.

What protein can I add?
Chickpeas, tofu, lentils, or quinoa all work well.

What to Serve this Citrus Salad With

• Roasted Vegetable Pasta
• Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Walnut Breadcrumbs
• Creamy Garlic and Vegetable Pasta
• Easy Tofu Recipe
• Tofu Satay
• Roasted Vegetable Bowl with Peanut Sauce

🍴 More Flavorful Salads

• Tempeh Salad with Miso Ginger Sauce
• Black Bean and Mango Salad with Lime Dressing
• Corn Chaat with Peanuts
• Vegan Esquites (Mexican Street Corn Salad)

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📖 Recipe