Spinach Berry Bliss Salad with Poppy Seed Vinaigrette

Recipe Introduction: Your New Go-To Salad!

Ever feel like you're stuck in a salad rut? I know I do! That's where this spinach berry salad comes in.

Honestly, it's like sunshine in a bowl. Packed with flavour and super easy to make, it's about to become your new favourite.

Quick Hook: Ready for a Salad Upgrade?

Craving something both healthy and delicious? This spinach berry salad is the answer. It's a vibrant mix of sweet berries and crisp spinach.

This healthy salad recipe has a tangy poppy seed dressing.

Brief Overview: More Than Just Salad

This berry spinach salad recipe isn't just some trendy dish. Spinach salad with berries is a modern take on a classic.

It's perfect for a light lunch or summer side. I reckon this recipe is easy peasy and takes about 20 minutes.

It serves four hungry people.

Main Benefits: Fuel Your Body, Delight Your Taste Buds

Spinach berry salad is also packed with antioxidants. Perfect for a quick, nutritious boost. Serve this summer salad recipe at your next BBQ.

This salad's refreshing flavors make it special. Plus, it's so easy you'll look like a culinary whiz.

Time to gather the bits!

The Dream Team: Ingredients for a Spinach Berry Extravaganza

Ready to dive in? I have got all the ingredients for you, to help creating the perfect spinach berry salad .

We will need baby spinach, mixed berries, toasted almonds, and feta cheese. Don't forget the spinach berry salad with poppy seed dressing . An easy vinaigrette is where it's at.

Ingredients & Equipment for the Ultimate Spinach Berry Salad

Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to make this spinach berry salad sing! This easy spinach salad is all about fresh ingredients, so quality matters.

We'll keep it simple, focusing on the essentials. Think sunshine in a bowl.

Main Ingredients: Berry Goodness

Here's what you'll need for a berry spinach salad recipe that'll knock your socks off:

• Baby spinach : 10 ounces (285g) . Go for vibrant green leaves. Avoid anything wilted or slimy.
• Strawberries : 1 cup (150g) , hulled and sliced. Sweet, red, and juicy are the goals here.
• Blueberries : 1 cup (120g) . Firm and plump, not mushy.
• Raspberries : ½ cup (75g) . Handle with care; these are delicate little things.
• Sliced almonds : ¼ cup (30g) . Raw or slivered work. We'll toast them later.
• Feta cheese (optional): ¼ cup (40g) , crumbled. Adds a salty tang. Honestly, it's awesome.

Seasoning Notes: Sweet & Tangy

The right dressing is key to an amazing spinach salad with berries . This spinach berry salad with poppy seed dressing is so, so good! Here's what makes it tick:

• Olive oil : Use 3 tablespoons (45ml) of extra virgin. It brings the flavor.
• Apple cider vinegar : You'll need 2 tablespoons (30ml) for the tang. If you don't have it? Lemon juice is good!
• Honey (or maple syrup) : 1 tablespoon (15ml) . A touch of sweetness balances things perfectly.
• Dijon mustard : 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Adds a subtle kick. Don't skip it!
• Poppy seeds : 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Essential for that classic dressing.
• Salt and pepper : To taste. Season generously.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

You don't need fancy gadgets to make this healthy salad recipe . Seriously.

• Large salad bowl : For tossing everything together.
• Small mixing bowl (or jar with a lid) : For making the dressing.
• Whisk (or fork) : To combine the dressing.
• Small frying pan : For toasting the almonds.
• Measuring cups and spoons : Accuracy is important.

That's it! Nothing too crazy, right? Get your ingredients prepped and ready. You will be making a summer salad recipe in no time at all.

I really love this fruit salad with spinach . So fresh! I sometimes do this as a spinach salad lunch ideas .

You can use some almond spinach salad idea to combine those ingredients if you want. The feta spinach salad version is pretty delicious as well.

And don't forget the apple cider vinaigrette recipe , it's a must!

Cooking Method: Building the Perfect Spinach Berry Salad

So, you wanna make a healthy salad recipe that's actually exciting? Honestly, I've been there. We're diving into the world of the spinach berry salad .

This ain’t your grandma’s boring side dish. Think vibrant colours, sweet and tangy flavours, and a texture that makes you wanna do a little food dance.

Let's get to it, shall we?

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row

First things first, mise en place , people! Gather your 10 ounces of baby spinach , 1 cup of strawberries, blueberries and raspberries, plus ¼ cup of sliced almonds.

This stops you from running around like a headless chicken later. Grab your other bits too!. Toast the ¼ cup of sliced almonds in a dry pan over medium heat for 3- 5 minutes .

Keep an eye on them! They go from golden to burnt quicker than you can say "Oh my gosh!". Safety first: hot pans are no joke, use oven mitts.

step-by-step: Salad Assembly Time

This easy spinach salad comes together quicker than you think.

1. Whisk your vinaigrette in a bowl: 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon poppy seeds, plus salt and pepper to taste.
2. Toss the washed and dried spinach and berries in a large bowl.
3. Drizzle the berry salad vinaigrette over the salad.
4. Sprinkle on your toasted almonds.
5. Crumble feta on top if you're feeling fancy.

Serve your spinach salad with berries immediately.

Pro Tips: Salad Perfection

Don't overdress your salad. A little vinaigrette goes a long way. Undressed is better than soggy. Ever made a salad that was just too wet? Nightmare!

Want to get ahead? Make the vinaigrette up to two days in advance. It keeps brilliantly in the fridge. Plus, toasting your own nuts tastes much better than the shop bought kind.

Trust me on this one.

One common mistake? Not drying your spinach. Use a salad spinner. Nobody wants watery salad.

This spinach berry salad with poppy seed dressing is my go-to summer salad recipe , and I hope it becomes yours too!

Recipe Notes for Your Spinach Berry Salad

Alright, let's dive into the nitty gritty of making your spinach berry salad the best it can be! Honestly, these little tweaks and tricks can make all the difference.

It's the difference between a good berry spinach salad recipe and a "OMG, this is amazing!" reaction.

Plating Like a Pro & Perfect Pairings

Presentation matters, right? Pile your easy spinach salad high in a bowl. This shows off all those gorgeous colors. Sprinkle the almonds and feta (if you’re using it) right before serving.

This keeps them crisp and beautiful. For sides, a slice of crusty bread is always a winner. A chilled glass of rosé? Absolutely divine with this summer salad recipe ! Also, A fruit salad with spinach like this is a great addition to any brunch.

Keeping It Fresh: Storage Secrets

Got leftovers? No worries! The key to keeping your spinach berry salad with poppy seed dressing fresh is storing the dressing separately.

Keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days . The vinaigrette can last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Don't even think about freezing this salad. It'll just turn into a sad, soggy mess. When ready to serve, give the dressing a good shake and toss gently.

Tweak It Till You Make It: Variations Galore!

Want to mix things up? Go for it! For a vegan healthy salad recipe , just skip the feta and use maple syrup in the dressing.

It works a treat! If you're feeling adventurous, try adding some grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein. Instead of the suggested berries, you can use whatever fruit looks good at the market.

This makes it a perfect summer berry spinach salad or apple cider vinaigrette recipe alternative. Consider making it an almond spinach salad by adding some candied almonds for extra flair.

Or try feta spinach salad with some sunflower seeds for added crunch.

Nutrition Nuggets: Goodness in Every Bite

Let's talk about health! This spinach salad with berries is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. We're talking about Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and fiber galore.

It is such a wonderful healthy salad recipe that makes you feel good! Spinach is an absolute superfood. Berries boost immunity.

This salad is not only delicious but also pretty darn good for you. With an estimated 250 calories per serving, it's a guilt free delight!

Give this berry spinach salad recipe a go, and make it your own. Honestly, don't be afraid to experiment with ingredients and find what works best for you. Happy salad making!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the spinach berry salad ahead of time?

While you can prep some components ahead, like toasting the almonds and making the vinaigrette, it's best to assemble the salad just before serving. Spinach tends to wilt and the berries can get soggy if dressed too far in advance. Think of it like a good cuppa best enjoyed fresh!

What other berries can I use in my spinach berry salad?

This salad is super flexible! Feel free to experiment with whatever berries are in season and looking their best. Blackberries, marionberries, and even gooseberries would be delicious additions or substitutes. It's all about embracing the "chuck it in" mentality while keeping the proportions somewhat similar!

How long will the poppy seed vinaigrette last, and how should I store it?

The poppy seed vinaigrette will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week. Store it in an airtight container or jar. Before using, give it a good shake as the oil and vinegar may separate a bit like your friends after a night out! The honey helps to preserve it, too.

I'm not a fan of feta cheese. What can I substitute in this spinach berry salad?

No worries, mate! If feta isn't your thing, there are plenty of substitutes. Try crumbled goat cheese for a similar tang, or shaved Parmesan for a more savory flavor. For a dairy-free option, toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds add a nice nutty crunch and visual appeal.

Just play around with it to find what you enjoy.

Is this spinach berry salad healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?

Absolutely! This spinach berry salad is packed with nutrients. Spinach is a great source of vitamins and minerals, while berries are loaded with antioxidants. The almonds contribute healthy fats and the vinaigrette adds flavor without being too heavy. It's like a healthy hug in a bowl!

Can I add protein to the spinach berry salad to make it a full meal?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu are all fantastic additions to transform this spinach berry salad into a satisfying meal. You could also add some cooked quinoa or chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost. Think of it as a blank canvas for your culinary masterpiece!