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Master the Art of the Bob Evans Summer Berry Salad: Your Ultimate Guide to a Healthy, Low-Carb Meal

Unlock the secrets to crafting a phenomenal Bob Evans Summer Berry Salad copycat right in your own kitchen! This exceptional low-carb fruit salad with chicken isn’t just a delicious summer meal; it’s a versatile, keto-friendly, and gluten-free delight perfect for anyone seeking a vibrant, healthy option. As berry season peaks, with ripe strawberries and juicy blueberries in abundance, there’s no better time to embrace this refreshing recipe. Prepare to be amazed by the harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that make this salad an instant classic!

There’s something uniquely satisfying about fresh, seasonal produce, especially when the weather warms up. My personal culinary goal for summer is always to incorporate as many light, vibrant dishes as possible, and this particular summer salad with berries and grilled chicken has become a true obsession. It’s simply irresistible!

While this recipe focuses on a robust summer berry salad with chicken, its adaptability is one of its greatest strengths. For those who prefer a vegetarian or vegan approach, simple modifications can transform it into a plant-based marvel. Swap the grilled chicken for pan-seared tofu, roasted chickpeas, or a plant-based chicken alternative, and replace the feta cheese with a dairy-free feta substitute or nutritional yeast for a savory kick. The core flavors remain delightful, making it a versatile addition to any diet.

So, take a moment, relax, perhaps sip on a refreshing glass of diet lemonade, and immerse yourself in the creation of this exquisite salad. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience of fresh, healthy summer goodness!

🥗 Essential Ingredients for Your Bob Evans Summer Berry Salad Copycat

To recreate this vibrant Bob Evans Summer Berry Salad at home, you’ll need a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering the authentic taste and satisfying texture of this beloved dish. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need to gather for your culinary adventure:

**10 ounces (283g) Spring Mix:** A medley of tender greens that forms the perfect base. You can also opt for other leafy greens like baby spinach, baby kale, romaine, or even crisp iceberg lettuce, depending on your preference for texture and flavor.
**1 lb (454g) Grilled Chicken Breast:** The star protein of this salad, adding a lean and savory element. This recipe is an excellent way to utilize leftover grilled chicken from your weekend barbecue. If you don’t have any on hand, a store-bought rotisserie chicken can be quickly shredded and chopped, saving you valuable prep time without sacrificing flavor.
**2 cups Quartered Strawberries:** Bursting with natural sweetness and a slight tartness, strawberries are a cornerstone of this summer salad. Choose firm, brightly colored berries for the best flavor and texture. Quartering them ensures a good distribution throughout the salad.
**2 cups Blueberries:** These small, antioxidant-rich powerhouses add another layer of fruity goodness. Look for plump, firm blueberries. Their gentle sweetness complements the strawberries beautifully.
**½ cup Pecans, Halved:** For that satisfying crunch and a boost of healthy fats. Halving them makes them easier to eat in a salad, and lightly toasting them before adding can enhance their nutty flavor.
**4 ounces (113g) Feta Cheese, Crumbled:** The tangy, salty kick of feta cheese perfectly balances the sweetness of the berries. If you’re not a fan of feta, consider alternatives like creamy goat cheese or sharp blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
**½ cup Balsamic Vinaigrette Salad Dressing:** The dressing ties all the flavors together. Balsamic vinaigrette offers a lovely sweet and tart component. For an even more berry-centric experience, you could also try a raspberry vinaigrette or a homemade berry-infused dressing.

Using leftover cooked chicken breast is a fantastic shortcut for this recipe. If your summer grilling adventures haven’t yielded any leftovers, or if you simply want a quick option, a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works wonderfully. Remember, the quality of your dressing can significantly impact the final taste. While balsamic vinaigrette is recommended, feel free to experiment with a raspberry vinaigrette or any other berry-friendly dressing to customize your salad to perfection. Don’t forget, a printable recipe card with all the precise measurements and steps is available at the end of this post!

🍓 Crafting Your Perfect Summer Berry Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this delightful summer berry salad is incredibly straightforward, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend lunch. Follow these simple steps to assemble your very own healthy and flavorful Bob Evans copycat:

Prepare Your Components
Begin by preparing your fresh ingredients. Carefully quarter the ripe strawberries, ensuring each piece is bite-sized. Next, halve the pecans. If you have a few extra minutes, lightly toast the pecans in a dry pan for a few minutes over medium heat until fragrant; this intensifies their nutty flavor and adds an extra layer of deliciousness. Finally, chop your grilled chicken breast into uniform pieces. Aim for about ½ to 1-inch chunks so they are easy to eat with the salad greens.
Once your components are prepped, start building your salads. Divide the fresh spring mix evenly among four bowls. Then, scatter the blueberries over the greens in each bowl. This foundational layer sets the stage for the vibrant additions to come.
Layer in the Chicken and Strawberries
Next, evenly distribute the chopped grilled chicken breast over the spring mix and blueberries in each of the four bowls. The chicken adds a hearty, protein-packed element that transforms this fruit-forward salad into a satisfying main course.
Add the Strawberries for a Burst of Color
Now, it’s time to add the vibrant quartered strawberries. Arrange them artfully over the chicken and greens. Their bright red hue adds a beautiful contrast and a delightful burst of sweet-tart flavor with every bite.
Top with Feta and Pecans
Complete the assembly by generously sprinkling the crumbled feta cheese and the halved pecans over the salads. The feta introduces a delightful salty tang that cuts through the sweetness of the berries, while the pecans offer a satisfying crunch and nutty depth. These toppings not only enhance the flavor but also add visual appeal.
Dress and Serve
The final touch! Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette generously over each salad. This ensures the greens remain crisp and prevents the salad from becoming soggy. The dressing brings all the diverse flavors together, creating a perfectly balanced and incredibly satisfying meal. Serve immediately and savor the fresh taste of summer!

For any leftover Bob Evans strawberry salad, store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 1-3 days. A crucial tip for maintaining freshness: always keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve. This simple step will ensure your greens stay crisp and delicious, preventing any unwanted sogginess.

📋 Nutritional Insights: Decoding Your Summer Berry Salad

One serving of this delightful summer berry salad is designed to be a balanced and satisfying meal. Each portion typically contains approximately 524 calories, 26.2 grams of net carbs, and a robust 36.2 grams of protein. What’s more, it’s inherently gluten-free (assuming your chosen dressing is also gluten-free), making it an excellent fit for those adhering to low-carb and ketogenic dietary plans. This carefully calculated macronutrient profile ensures you get sustained energy and feel full without compromising your health goals.

It’s always insightful to see how a homemade dish compares to its restaurant counterparts. Let’s stack up the nutritional profile of our homemade berry summer salad against some popular fast food and takeout options. This comparison highlights the benefits of preparing meals at home, where you have full control over ingredients and portion sizes. Please note that restaurant nutrition information is subject to change based on menu updates.

Salad	Calories	Net Carbs (g)	Protein (g)
My Summer Berry Salad	524	26.2	36.2
Wendy’s Summer Strawberry Salad*	450	20	41
BeefaRoo Summerberry Salad	662	15	24
Bob Evans Summer Berry Salad**	320	28	22

*Not available on the menu as of June 2024
**Includes Lite Balsamic Dressing

How Many Calories Are in Wendy’s Summer Berry Salad?

For those curious about a popular alternative, Wendy’s Summer Strawberry Chicken Salad typically contains 360 calories without dressing. When a packet of champagne vinaigrette is added, the calorie count rises to approximately 450. The ingredients in Wendy’s version usually include fresh strawberries, a mixed greens blend, grilled chicken, cheese, bacon, and almonds. It’s worth noting that menu items, especially seasonal ones like this salad, may be temporarily discontinued or updated, so it’s always best to check their current offerings.

Bob Evans Summer Berry Salad Copycat (Low Carb, Keto)

By Summer Yule

Discover how to create your own irresistible summer berry salad! This delightful mixed berry salad offers a fantastic summer meal that is not only keto-friendly and low-carb but also naturally gluten-free.

Prep Time: 5 mins

Total Time: 5 mins

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Servings: 4

Calories: 524 kcal

Ingredients

10 ounces spring lettuce mix (283 grams)
1 lb grilled chicken breast (454 grams; leftover chicken is perfect here)
2 cups strawberries, sliced
2 cups blueberries
4 ounces feta, crumbled (113 grams)
½ cup pecans, toasted
½ cup balsamic dressing

Instructions

Quarter the strawberries, halve the pecans, and chop the grilled chicken breast. To make your salads, divide the spring mix and blueberries between four bowls.
Add the grilled chicken and strawberries. Top the bowls with feta and pecans.
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette on your salads right before serving. Enjoy!

Equipment

Knife
Salad Containers

Expert Tips from Dietitian Summer Yule

This recipe is considered a “level 2” recipe, ideal for those in a transition phase or aiming for weight maintenance. If you’re looking to reduce the calorie count, a simple adjustment would be to halve the amount of pecans, using only ¼ cup total (or 1 tablespoon per salad). Another smart strategy is to opt for fat-free feta cheese. Conversely, if you need a higher energy meal, consider adding a side of crusty bread or wholesome crackers, and swap out chicken breasts for more calorie-dense chicken thighs.

Most fruits commonly classified as “berries” naturally align well with low-carb eating plans. However, fresh berries do have a downside: they tend to spoil quickly and can be quite expensive, especially out of season.

To get the most value and flavor, make it a point to utilize local fruit when it’s in season. This not only ensures fresher, tastier produce but can also lead to significant cost savings.

Please note that the nutrition information provided is for one serving of this summer berry salad, including the dressing. The precise nutritional facts may vary slightly depending on the specific brands and type of dressing you choose to use.

Nutrition Info Disclaimer

All recipes on this website may or may not be appropriate for you, depending on your medical needs and personal preferences. Consult with a registered dietitian or your physician if you need help determining the dietary pattern that may be best for you.

The nutrition information is an estimate provided as a courtesy. It will differ depending on the specific brands and ingredients that you use. Calorie information on food labels may be inaccurate, so please don’t sweat the numbers too much.

“To taste” means to your preferences, which may have to be visual to follow food safety rules. Please don’t eat undercooked food.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 524 kcal

Carbohydrates: 33.2 g

Protein: 36.2 g

Fat: 28.5 g

Saturated Fat: 6.5 g

Potassium: 490.7 mg

Fiber: 7 g

Vitamin A: 67.3 % DV

Vitamin C: 93.3 % DV

Calcium: 18 % DV

Iron: 14.2 % DV

Keywords

bob evans summer berry salad, summer berry salad, summer berry salad recipe, low carb, keto, healthy

⭐ Creative Variations for Your Berry Salad

One of the best aspects of this strawberry salad recipe is its inherent flexibility. If there’s an ingredient you don’t particularly enjoy, or if you simply want to explore new flavor combinations, feel free to customize it! This adaptable dish can be easily altered to perfectly match your taste preferences and what you have on hand. Here are some fantastic suggestions for substitutions and variations to inspire your culinary creativity:

Swap Out Your Greens

While a spring mix offers a delicate base, other greens can bring different textures and flavors:

Baby spinach: Adds a slightly earthy flavor and is packed with nutrients.
Baby kale: Offers a more robust texture and a slightly bitter note that pairs well with sweet berries.
Romaine lettuce: Provides a crisp crunch and a neutral flavor profile.
Iceberg lettuce: For maximum crunch and a mild taste, perfect for those who prefer classic salad textures.

Explore Other Fruits Beyond Berries

While berries are central, other stone fruits can provide a wonderful change of pace:

Chopped peaches: Their juicy sweetness is a quintessential summer flavor.
Plums: Add a rich, tart-sweetness and a beautiful deep color.
Nectarines: Similar to peaches but with smooth skin, offering vibrant color and flavor.
Apricots: Smaller and subtly sweet, they bring a delicate fruitiness.

Nut and Seed Alternatives

If pecans aren’t your favorite, or if you have an allergy, there are many delicious alternatives for crunch and healthy fats:

Sunflower seeds: A great nut-free option, offering a mild, nutty flavor.
Maple walnuts: For an extra hint of sweetness and a distinct, rich flavor.
Sliced almonds: Provide a delicate crunch and a classic nutty taste.
Pumpkin seeds (pepitas): Offer a chewier texture and a savory, earthy flavor.

Cheese Swaps

Feta is fantastic, but these cheeses can offer new dimensions:

Goat cheese (chevre): Creamier and tangier than feta, it melts slightly into the warm chicken, creating a luscious texture.
Blue cheese: For those who love a bold, pungent flavor that stands up to the sweet fruit.

Protein Alternatives to Chicken

If you’re out of chicken or just want to try something different, consider these protein sources:

Pulled pork: A flavorful and tender alternative, especially if you have leftovers from a barbecue.
Turkey: Sliced or shredded turkey breast makes a lean and savory addition.
Shrimp: Grilled or sautéed shrimp can offer a lighter, seafood-based protein.
Hard-boiled eggs: For a simple, vegetarian protein boost.

If you’re truly looking to venture into a completely different realm, you could always prepare a classic fruit salad centered around summer berries. A simple fruit salad becomes truly magical with the addition of fresh chopped mint, which brightens all the flavors. For an indulgent touch, a delicate drizzle of honey or a squeeze of fresh lime juice can elevate it further, making it a perfect light dessert or brunch item.

👩🏻‍🍳 Discover More Healthy Salad Recipes

If this healthy berry salad has inspired your culinary journey, you’re in luck! We have a plethora of other nutritious and delicious salad recipes waiting for you. Expand your repertoire of wholesome meals with these fantastic options:

Orange Chicken Salad with Strawberries: A delightful combination of savory chicken and sweet, tart fruit.
Healthy Meal Prep Salad for Weight Loss: Perfect for busy schedules, offering convenience without sacrificing nutrition.
Canned Salmon Salad No Mayo: A light and flavorful alternative to traditional tuna salad, packed with healthy fats.
Keto Greek Salad: A fresh and tangy option, rich in Mediterranean flavors and low in carbs.

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