Berry Salads with Dressings

Berry Salad

5oz spring mix lettuce

12oz fresh berries-strawberries, raspberries, blueberries or blackberries

3oz chevre, feta or similar cheeses, crumbled
1/2 cup slivered almonds, honey roasted pecans or other nut

Divide lettuce between plates then top with blackberries, blue cheese crumbles, and honey-roasted pecans. Dress with berry-balsamic vinaigrette then serve

Berry-Balsamic Vinaigrette

1/2 cup fresh berries-strawberries, raspberries, blueberries or blackberries
1 Tablespoon sugar
2 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 Tablespoon honey
salt and pepper

Add blackberries and sugar to a food processor or blender then process or blend until berries are crushed. Let sit for a minute then add remaining ingredients and process or blend until smooth. Set aside. Can be made ahead of time.

source: Iowa Girl Eats

Or, Strawberry Spinach Salad

1 bunch fresh spinach
4 cups fresh strawberries sliced

In a large bowl, toss together spinach and strawberries.

Dressing

1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 tsp paprika
2 Tbsp sesame seeds
1 Tbsp poppy seeds

 In medium bowl, whisk together oil, vinegar, sugar, paprika, sesame seeds, poppy seeds. Pour over spinach and strawberries; toss to coat.