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Spinach Salad with Berries

Spinach Salad with Berries

Spinach Salad with Berries is a fresh, vibrant, and nutrient-packed dish combining tender baby spinach, mixed sweet and tart berries, creamy feta cheese, crunchy toasted nuts, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect as a light meal or colorful side, it balances taste and nutrition effortlessly and is quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Greens and Fruits

  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach, washed and dried
  • 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries), rinsed and dried

Cheese and Nuts

  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • ¼ cup toasted nuts (walnuts or almonds)

Vegetables and Herbs

  • ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil or mint leaves, chopped

Dressing

  • 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 6 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Thoroughly wash and dry the baby spinach to prevent sogginess. Gently rinse the berries and pat them dry to maintain texture. Slice larger berries like strawberries for easier eating.
  2. Toast the Nuts: Heat walnuts or almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast them, stirring frequently, until fragrant and golden. Allow to cool slightly before adding to the salad.
  3. Slice the Onions and Herbs: Thinly slice the red onion for a mild crunch and chop fresh basil or mint leaves for an aromatic lift.
  4. Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until smooth and emulsified, balancing sweet and tangy flavors.
  5. Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, gently combine baby spinach, mixed berries, toasted nuts, sliced onions, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and lightly toss to coat all the ingredients evenly without bruising the delicate greens.

Notes

  • Use fresh, ripe berries and vibrant spinach to maximize flavor and texture.
  • Dry spinach thoroughly to keep the salad crisp and prevent dilution of the dressing.
  • Toast nuts gently and watch carefully to avoid burning and to bring out their full flavor.
  • Add dressing just before serving to maintain fresh, crisp greens.
  • Adjust the honey or vinegar in the dressing to balance sweet and savory according to your taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: spinach salad, berry salad, healthy salad, quick salad, fresh salad, summer salad, gluten-free salad, vegetarian salad