Summer Fruit Salad with Goat Cheese & Pistachios for Entertaining

This Summer Fruited Salad blends mixed greens with seasonal fruit, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy pistachios, finished with a simple balsamic vinaigrette. It’s a quick, flavorful option for light lunches or a colorful side dish.

Ingredients

For the Salad (per salad)

• 2 cups mixed baby greens
• 1/4 avocado, sliced
• 1/2 plum, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh raspberries
• 2 tablespoons crumbled goat cheese
• 2 tablespoons pistachio nutmeats

For the Balsamic Vinaigrette (makes 4–6 salads)

• 1/2 cup oil (avocado oil or olive oil)
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Instructions

For the Balsamic Vinaigrette

1. Add the oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to a jar with a fitted lid. Seal and shake vigorously until the dressing is emulsified.
2. Arrange the mixed greens, avocado, sliced plum, and raspberries in a large bowl. Sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese and pistachios.
3. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat, adding more dressing to taste. Serve immediately.

The vinaigrette is inspired by classic balsamic dressings—adjust the honey and vinegar ratio to suit your sweetness preference. If you prefer, swap pistachios for toasted almonds or walnuts.