This summer berry salad is the most refreshing treat for a hot day! It’s super easy to whip up in 10 minutes, and it’s just perfect as dessert for grilling season.
There’s nothing better than a light and refreshing fruit salad on a hot summer day, and this berry salad is an absolute favorite in our home.
It’s an excellent way to use up any mixed berries you may have in the fridge, and it’s super quick and easy to make.
The bright dressing takes this berry summer salad to the next level—the mix of freshly squeezed lime juice, agave syrup, and poppy seeds is truly a game-changer.
Why you’ll love this summer berry salad
- It’s an all-natural and healthy dessert that hits the spot on a hot summer day.
- It only takes 10 minutes to make and tastes great the next day, too.
- Perfect for picnics, the beach or BBQs — it also makes a great side dish for grilling days!
What you’ll need
Berries— I used a mix of strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and raspberries, but you can make it with any combination you like.
If you want a less sweet salad, adjust the rations to include more blackberries and fewer strawberries.
Mint — Chop some fresh mint leaves to infuse your berry salad with loads of freshness and extra flavor. If you’re not a fan, feel free to skip it.
Agave syrup — A splash of agave syrup adds extra sweetness to the salad while keeping it vegan. You can also use your favorite plant-based honey, date syrup or maple syrup instead.
Lime juice — This adds a touch of tanginess and extra brightness to the fruit salad. Lemon juice works well, too.
Poppy seeds — I love to add poppy seeds to the dressing for extra texture. They also add a nice look!
Pro tip
Toss in some toasted slivered almonds or chopped pistachios for a deliciously crunchy element and a touch of nuttiness.
How to make berry salad
In a small bowl, add the agave syrup, lime juice and poppy seeds and whisk well until combined.
Place the strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries and mint in a large mixing bowl.
Pour the dressing over the berries and toss until evenly coated. Do it gently to avoid crushing the berries.
Serve right away, or if making ahead, refrigerate the berry salad for a couple of hours.
Helpful tips for the best berry fruit salad
- Be gentle when tossing the salad. You don't want to crush the berries and end up with a mushy mess.
- This salad is best served chilled, so pop it in the fridge for a bit before serving. It's also great the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Add some lime zest for an even more fragrant dressing.
- Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Substitutions and variations
- If you're not a mint person, some fresh basil or even a sprig of rosemary are great for adding a herby flavor to this salad.
- While berries are the star of this salad, feel free to add other fruits like sliced peaches, nectarines, kiwi or even chunks of mango for a tropical twist.
- If you’d like the salad to be tangier, add a splash of balsamic glaze to the dressing.
More easy salad recipes
If you’ve tried this summer berry salad recipe, please don’t forget to rate it and leave me a comment below! I’d love to hear what you thought.
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Summer Berry Salad
Ingredients
For the dressing
- 2 tablespoons agave syrup
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
For the salad
- 1 lb (450 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 8 oz (225 g) fresh blackberries
- 8 oz (225 g) fresh raspberries
- 8 oz (225 g) fresh blueberries
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
Instructions
- In a small bowl, add the agave syrup, lime juice and poppy seeds and whisk well until combined.2 tablespoons agave syrup2 tablespoons lime juice1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- Place the strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries and mint in a large mixing bowl.1 lb fresh strawberries8 oz fresh blackberries8 oz fresh raspberries8 oz fresh blueberries2 tablespoons fresh mint
- Pour the dressing over the berries and toss until evenly coated. Do it gently to avoid crushing the berries.
- Serve right away, or place the berry salad in the fridge for a couple of hours if making ahead.
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