Spicy Berry Bliss
A unique and refreshing salad where sweet mixed berries are marinated in a zesty, spicy dressing featuring gochujang or chili garlic sauce. This vibrant dish offers a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, perfect as a light dessert, appetizer, or side.
Ingredients
- 3 cup mixed berries fresh or frozen (thawed)
- 2 tablespoon gochujang or chili garlic sauce
- 2 tablespoon lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil toasted
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 0.5 teaspoon ginger grated (optional)
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- Gently wash and dry the mixed berries. Place them in a medium bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the gochujang (or chili garlic sauce), lime juice, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), and a pinch of salt until well combined. This is your zesty, spicy dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the berries. Gently toss to ensure all berries are evenly coated.
- If desired, reserve about 1/4 of the dressing to add just before serving, or for use as a marinade for other dishes.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the berries to soak up the flavors.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish, light dessert, or a unique topping for yogurt or grilled meats.
Notes
For extra freshness, add chopped fresh mint or basil leaves before serving. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less gochujang. This dish is best served chilled after allowing the berries to marinate for at least 30 minutes. It's also great as a topping for yogurt, ice cream, or grilled chicken and fish.