Kiwi Salad with Blackberries and Pecans

Name: Kiwi Salad with Blackberries and Pecans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Contemporary
Ingredients: 8 cups spinach or spinach-arugula mix; 2 large kiwis, peeled and sliced; 2 snack cucumbers, thinly sliced; 1 cup fresh blackberries; ⅓ cup crumbled goat cheese; ½ cup candied pecans (or regular pecans); Poppyseed dressing (mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, poppyseeds, minced onion)

Published: May 27, 2025

by Lucille

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This salad comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet fruits and creamy cheese creates a delightful balance that will impress your taste buds.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or main dish — it’s perfect for any meal!
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from the fresh fruits and greens, this salad is both healthy and satisfying.
Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors of the kiwi, blackberries, and spinach make this salad a feast for the eyes.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Kiwi Salad with Blackberries and Pecans smoothly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Nonstick skillet
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Nonstick skillet: Perfect for making candied pecans without them sticking or burning.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl helps in tossing all ingredients together without spilling.
Whisk: Essential for blending the dressing to achieve a smooth consistency.

Ingredients

This Kiwi Salad with Blackberries and Pecans layers juicy kiwi, blackberries, crunchy snack cucumbers, creamy goat cheese, and sweet candied pecans — all tossed in a smooth and tangy white poppyseed dressing.

For the Salad

8 cups spinach or spinach-arugula mix (6 to 7 ounces)
2 large kiwis (peeled and sliced)
2 snack cucumbers (thinly sliced)
1 cup fresh blackberries (rinsed and patted dry)
⅓ cup crumbled goat cheese
¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
½ cup candied pecans or regular pecans (see instructions below)

For the Dressing

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon poppyseeds
1 tablespoon finely minced white or yellow onion
Optional: Stir in a few teaspoons of cream or milk to thin the dressing.

For Garnish

Pecan halves

For Candied Pecans

1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon water

How to Make Kiwi Salad with Blackberries and Pecans

Step 1: Prepare the Greens

Wash and dry the spinach or mixed greens thoroughly. Peel the kiwis and slice them into rounds. Thinly slice both the cucumbers and red onion if using.

Step 2: Make Candied Pecans (Optional)

If you choose to make candied pecans:
1. Add pecans, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of water to a nonstick skillet.
2. Stir constantly over medium heat until sugar melts and coats the pecans with a glossy finish; this should take about 3–4 minutes.
3. Allow them to cool before adding them to your salad.

Step 3: Whisk Together Dressing

In a small bowl:
1. Combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, poppyseeds, and minced onion.
2. Whisk until smooth. Let it rest for about 10–15 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

On a large platter or in a wide bowl:
1. Layer the spinach at the bottom.
2. Top with sliced kiwis, cucumbers, blackberries, and red onion if desired.
3. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over everything followed by candied pecans.

Step 5: Serve with Dressing

Drizzle the poppyseed dressing over the salad just before serving or offer it on the side for guests to add themselves. Enjoy immediately!

How to Serve Kiwi Salad with Blackberries and Pecans

Serving your Kiwi Salad with Blackberries and Pecans can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this vibrant salad.

Family Style

Serve the salad in a large bowl to let everyone help themselves. This encourages sharing and creates a communal dining atmosphere.

Individual Bowls

For a more refined touch, serve the salad in individual bowls or plates. This makes for an elegant presentation, perfect for gatherings or special occasions.

With Grilled Chicken

Pairing this salad with grilled chicken adds protein, making it a complete meal. The kiwi and blackberry flavors complement the savory chicken beautifully.

As a Side Dish

Serve it alongside main courses like roasted meats or fish. The freshness of the salad balances richer dishes perfectly.

Drizzled on Sandwiches

Use the poppyseed dressing as a drizzle over sandwiches. This adds extra flavor and ties in nicely with the salad’s ingredients.

How to Perfect Kiwi Salad with Blackberries and Pecans

To ensure your Kiwi Salad with Blackberries and Pecans is at its best, follow these handy tips for optimal taste and presentation.

Choose ripe kiwis: Select kiwis that are slightly soft to the touch for maximum sweetness and flavor.
Fresh ingredients: Always use fresh spinach and blackberries for that crisp texture and vibrant color.
Customize your nuts: If you prefer, substitute candied pecans with walnuts or almonds for different flavor profiles.
Dress just before serving: To keep the spinach fresh and crisp, add dressing right before serving rather than letting it sit.
Add herbs: Fresh herbs like mint or basil can enhance the flavor profile of this salad.
Experiment with cheese: Try using feta instead of goat cheese for a tangier twist that complements the fruits well.

Best Side Dishes for Kiwi Salad with Blackberries and Pecans

Pairing side dishes with your Kiwi Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Grilled Salmon
Rich in omega-3s, this dish pairs well with the fruity salad while adding depth to your meal.
Quinoa Pilaf
A light quinoa pilaf offers protein and fiber while keeping meals healthy and satisfying.
Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness that complements the flavors of your kiwi salad.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
These can be filled with grains, beans, or meat, providing substance without overwhelming the main dish.
Garlic Bread
Crunchy garlic bread is an indulgent option that contrasts nicely with the freshness of the salad.
Chicken Skewers
Marinated chicken skewers add a savory element that balances beautifully against sweet fruits in your salad.
Pasta Salad
A cold pasta salad can provide additional textures while remaining light enough not to overshadow your main dish.
Cheese Platter
A selection of cheeses offers variety and enhances flavors when enjoyed alongside your kiwi salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Kiwi Salad with Blackberries and Pecans, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Skipping the washing step: Always wash your spinach and blackberries thoroughly before use. This ensures that any dirt or pesticides are removed, leading to a fresher taste.
Using overripe fruit: Ensure your kiwis and blackberries are ripe but not mushy. Overripe fruits can affect the salad’s texture and flavor negatively.
Forgetting about pecan preparation: If you choose to use candied pecans, don’t skip the cooking step. This adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that complements the salad beautifully.
Not letting the dressing rest: Allowing the dressing to sit for 10–15 minutes enhances its flavors. If you skip this step, you may miss out on a more harmonious taste.
Dressing too early: Drizzling the dressing on the salad too soon can make it soggy. Dress the salad right before serving for optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Separation: Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for maximum freshness.
Ingredients: The salad components can stay fresh longer when stored separately.

Freezing Kiwi Salad with Blackberries and Pecans

Not Recommended: It’s best not to freeze this salad as freezing affects the texture of fruits and greens.
Alternative Option: Instead, prepare only what you need and store leftover ingredients separately.

Reheating Kiwi Salad with Blackberries and Pecans

Oven: Not applicable for salads; best served cold.
Microwave: Avoid using a microwave as it will wilt greens and make fruit mushy.
Stovetop: No reheating needed; enjoy chilled or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Kiwi Salad with Blackberries and Pecans?

Yes! You can add other fruits like strawberries or nuts like walnuts for added flavor.

What dressings can I use instead of poppyseed?

You could try balsamic vinaigrette or lemon dressing if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I ensure my kiwi is perfectly ripe?

Look for kiwis that yield slightly when gently pressed. They should not be too hard or overly soft.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this Kiwi Salad with Blackberries and Pecans is gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets.

Final Thoughts

This Kiwi Salad with Blackberries and Pecans is a vibrant dish perfect for lunch or as a side. Its combination of flavors—from tangy kiwi to crunchy pecans—makes it appealing to many tastes. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite fruits or nuts! Enjoy this refreshing salad any time of year.

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