This Cranberry Blueberry Spring Mix Salad is light, refreshing, and bursting with sweet and tangy flavor.
It pairs juicy blueberries, crisp cucumber, sweet mandarin oranges, chewy dried cranberries, and crunchy sunflower seeds with a vibrant blueberry balsamic dressing.
Perfect for summer lunches, holiday tables, or whenever you’re craving a colorful, feel-good salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fresh and fruity – Juicy blueberries, oranges, and cranberries
Easy homemade dressing – With sweet, tangy blueberry flavor
Crisp and crunchy – Thanks to cucumber and sunflower seeds
Great for gatherings – Stunning presentation and quick prep
Vegan-friendly – Use maple syrup instead of honey
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Blueberries – Fresh, juicy, and antioxidant-rich
Mix greens – Mild, tender greens that pair well with fruit
Cucumber – Adds fresh crunch
Mandarin oranges – Sweet and juicy segments
Dried cranberries – Tart and chewy burst of flavor
Sunflower seeds – Roasted for savory crunch
Blueberry balsamic dressing – A tangy, vibrant homemade vinaigrette
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use ripe blueberries – For best flavor and sweetness
Chill the dressing – It thickens and tastes even better cold
Toss lightly – To avoid bruising tender greens
Add protein – Top with grilled chicken or feta for a meal-worthy salad
Make dressing ahead – Keeps up to 4 days in the fridge
How to Make Cranberry Blueberry Spring Mix Salad
Step 1: Make the Dressing
Blend all dressing ingredients except oil until smooth.
Drizzle in avocado oil while blending to emulsify.
Step 2: Prep the Greens
Wash and dry spring mix thoroughly.
Step 3: Toss the Base
In a bowl, combine greens, chopped cucumber, and blueberries.
Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Top with mandarin oranges, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds.
Serve immediately.
What to Serve With Cranberry Blueberry Spring Mix Salad
Grilled chicken or salmon – For a heartier main
Crusty bread or garlic toast – For soaking up dressing
Chilled white wine or iced tea – Complements the fruity flavors
Stuffed sweet potatoes – For a fall-inspired meal
Variations / Substitutions
Use spinach or arugula – In place of spring mix
Add goat cheese or feta – For creaminess
Swap nuts or seeds – Try walnuts or pecans
Use maple syrup – To make the dressing vegan
Add strawberries or apples – To change up the fruit profile
Storage Tips
Dressing – Store in a jar in the fridge for up to 4 days
Greens and toppings – Prep ahead, but assemble fresh
Leftover salad – Best enjoyed right away; greens wilt after dressing
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries?
For the dressing, yes. For the salad, fresh is best for texture.
Is this salad vegan?
Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey.
Can I make the salad ahead of time?
You can prep everything in advance—just wait to toss with dressing until ready to serve.
What’s the best oil for the dressing?
Avocado oil or olive oil both work well.
Is the dressing sweet or tangy?
It’s a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and savory thanks to balsamic vinegar, fruit, and mustard.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Blueberry Spring Mix Salad is light, colorful, and full of flavor.
With a homemade blueberry balsamic vinaigrette and layers of texture, it’s the kind of salad you’ll crave again and again—whether for a summer lunch, festive side dish, or a refreshing dinner starter.
