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Fresh Summer Berry Salad With Mint - Bright, Juicy, and Simple

Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Strawberries (1 pound), hulled and sliced
  • Blueberries (1 cup)
  • Raspberries (1 cup)
  • Blackberries (1 cup)
  • Fresh mint (a small handful), finely chopped
  • Lemon (1), for zest and juice
  • Honey or maple syrup (1–2 tablespoons), optional for sweetness
  • Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon), optional for depth
  • Pinch of sea salt to enhance flavor

Method
 

  1. Wash and dry the berries. Rinse gently in cold water and spread on a clean towel to dry. Avoid soaking. Dry berries hold up better and don’t get mushy.
  2. Prep the strawberries. Hull and slice them into bite-sized pieces. Keep the rest of the berries whole to protect their shape.
  3. Make the citrus-mint dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the zest of 1 lemon, 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice, honey or maple syrup (to taste), vanilla extract (if using), and a small pinch of sea salt. Stir in the finely chopped mint.
  4. Combine gently. Add all berries to a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and toss very gently with a spatula or your hands. You want a light coat, not a mash.
  5. Taste and adjust. If you want a little more brightness, add a squeeze of lemon. If the berries aren’t very sweet, add a touch more honey.
  6. Chill briefly (optional). For the best flavor, let the salad rest in the fridge for 10–15 minutes. The berries will release a little juice and the mint will perfume the whole bowl.
  7. Serve. Spoon into bowls and garnish with extra mint. If you like, add a dollop of yogurt, a swirl of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of toasted almonds.