Berry Spinach Salad – Fresh, Colorful & Nutritious
Salads don’t have to be boring, and a Berry Spinach Salad is the perfect example of how a simple dish can transform into something vibrant, flavorful, and nutrient-rich. The natural sweetness of juicy berries pairs beautifully with earthy spinach, creating a colorful base that looks as good as it tastes. Add in crunchy nuts, creamy cheese, and a tangy dressing, and you’ll have a salad that feels gourmet while being incredibly easy to make.
What makes this recipe so appealing is its versatility. It works just as well for a light lunch as it does as a side dish for dinner parties, barbecues, or holiday gatherings. Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, it’s also a healthy option that satisfies both your taste buds and your body’s nutritional needs. Whether you’re trying to eat lighter meals or looking for a show-stopping side dish, this salad deserves a spot on your table.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a breakdown of ingredients with approximate calorie counts:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh baby spinach | 6 cups | 40 kcal |
| Strawberries (sliced) | 1 cup | 50 kcal |
| Blueberries | ½ cup | 42 kcal |
| Raspberries | ½ cup | 32 kcal |
| Goat cheese or feta (crumbled) | ½ cup | 200 kcal |
| Walnuts or pecans (toasted) | ½ cup | 200 kcal |
| Red onion (thinly sliced) | ¼ cup | 15 kcal |
| Balsamic vinaigrette | ¼ cup | 180 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the base – Rinse spinach thoroughly and pat dry. Place it in a large salad bowl.
- Slice the fruit – Wash strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Slice strawberries into thin pieces.
- Toast the nuts – Lightly toast walnuts or pecans in a skillet for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
- Assemble the salad – Add berries, red onion, cheese, and toasted nuts to the spinach.
- Dress it up – Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Cheese alternatives: Try gorgonzola, blue cheese, or shaved parmesan for different flavor notes.
- Nut-free option: Replace nuts with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for crunch.
- Dressing variations: A poppy seed dressing, honey-lime vinaigrette, or raspberry vinaigrette also pairs wonderfully.
- Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp to make it a complete meal.
- Extra sweetness: Sprinkle in dried cranberries or a drizzle of honey for added depth.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 kcal |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
Serving Suggestions
- Side dish: Perfect alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
- Light lunch: Serve with whole-grain bread or a cup of soup.
- Party salad: Arrange ingredients on a platter for a visually stunning presentation.
- Meal prep: Keep ingredients separate and toss together just before serving to maintain freshness.
Berry Spinach Salad – Fresh, Colorful & Nutritious
4
servings15
minutes5
minutes190
kcalIngredients
6 cups fresh baby spinach
1 cup strawberries, sliced
½ cup blueberries
½ cup raspberries
½ cup goat cheese or feta, crumbled
½ cup walnuts or pecans, toasted
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup balsamic vinaigrette (or dressing of choice)
Directions
- Wash and dry spinach thoroughly, then place in a large salad bowl.
- Slice strawberries and combine with blueberries and raspberries.
- Lightly toast walnuts or pecans in a skillet for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
- Add berries, nuts, onion, and crumbled cheese to the spinach.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently just before serving.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Use fresh berries: Fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain well before adding.
Spinach prep: Wash and dry spinach thoroughly to avoid a soggy salad. A salad spinner works great for this.
FAQs
1. Can I make Berry Spinach Salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results keep the ingredients separate. Store the spinach, berries, cheese, and nuts in containers, and toss everything together with the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
2. What berries work best in this salad?
Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are the most popular, but you can also use blackberries, cranberries, or even pomegranate seeds for variety.
3. How do I keep the spinach from getting soggy?
Dry spinach leaves thoroughly after rinsing, and don’t add the dressing until right before serving. This keeps the salad crisp and fresh.
4. Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?
Fresh berries are ideal for texture and flavor, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid in the salad.
5. What dressing pairs well with Berry Spinach Salad?
Balsamic vinaigrette is a classic, but honey-lime, poppy seed dressing, or raspberry vinaigrette also work wonderfully.
Conclusion
A Berry Spinach Salad is more than just a salad—it’s a celebration of fresh flavors, vibrant colors, and healthy ingredients. With every bite, you get a mix of sweetness from the berries, creaminess from the cheese, and crunch from the nuts, all tied together with a tangy dressing. Easy to prepare, versatile, and full of nutrients, this salad is perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.
