Berry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
This Berry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a refreshing twist on your everyday greens. It's vibrant, full of flavor, and perfect for a light lunch or an impressive side dish at your next gathering. Packed with fresh berries and a tangy homemade dressing, it’s a delightful way to enjoy seasonal produce.
Share
Ingredients for Berry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Spinach: The fresh, crisp base of your salad, packed with iron and vitamins. Baby spinach is tender and perfect for raw salads.
Strawberries, Blueberries, and Raspberries: These berries add a burst of sweetness and color. They’re high in antioxidants and vitamin C.
Feta Cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet berries, enhancing the salad's flavor complexity.
Sliced Almonds: Provide a satisfying crunch and a hint of nutty flavor, also boosting protein content slightly.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: The base for our dressing, offering a rich, smooth texture and heart-healthy fats.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Gives the dressing its tangy kick while offering potential digestive benefits.
Honey: Naturally sweetens the dressing, balancing the vinegar's acidity.
Poppy Seeds: Add a subtle nutty flavor and interesting texture to the dressing.
Dijon Mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing while adding a hint of sharpness.
Berry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Tips & Tricks
- Toast the almonds for an extra depth of flavor; just a few minutes in a dry skillet until they’re golden brown.
- For a creamier dressing, blend in a couple of tablespoons of Greek yogurt.
- Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
- If you find spinach too mild, try mixing in some arugula for a peppery kick.
Serving Ideas for Berry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty quinoa dish. It’s also perfect as a refreshing side to a summer barbecue or a festive holiday spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen berries?
- Fresh berries are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, defrosted frozen berries can work.
- What can I substitute for feta cheese?
- Goat cheese or blue cheese can be great alternatives if you want a different flavor profile.
- How long will the salad keep?
- It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a day. Keep in mind the spinach may wilt a bit.
Berry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe Walkthrough
Let’s start with the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup olive oil, 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon poppy seeds, and 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until everything is well combined and set aside to let the flavors meld.
Now, on to the salad. In a large bowl, toss together 6 ounces of fresh spinach, 1 cup of sliced strawberries, 1 cup of blueberries, and 1/2 cup of raspberries. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently, making sure everything gets a nice, even coating.
Once dressed, sprinkle 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese and 1/4 cup of sliced almonds over the salad. Give it one final gentle toss and you’re ready to serve!
Why This Berry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Works
- Combines sweet and savory flavors for a complex taste experience.
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
- Packed with nutrients from fresh berries and spinach.
- Homemade dressing free of preservatives, offering a healthier choice.
- Customizable — switch up the berries or add your favorite nuts.
Ingredients
- 6 oz fresh spinach
- 1 cup sliced strawberries
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/2 cup raspberries
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- 2. In a large salad bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
- 3. Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- 4. Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese and sliced almonds before serving.