Berry Spinach Salad

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Sweet, vibrant, and refreshingly crisp, Berry Spinach Salad is the ultimate fusion of seasonal fruits and leafy greens. This dish combines the natural sweetness of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries with the tender crunch of baby spinach, finishing off with creamy crumbles of feta and the satisfying bite of toasted pecans. It’s a burst of color and flavor in every bite—balanced by the tangy zing of a homemade berry vinaigrette that ties everything together.

Perfect for light lunches, brunch spreads, or as a cheerful side at any gathering, this salad proves that eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Each ingredient brings its own texture and depth, making it as visually stunning as it is delicious. Whether you’re a salad lover or just looking for fresh food ideas, this bowl is a celebration of nature’s sweetest gifts.

Why You’ll Love This Berry Spinach Salad

• It’s bursting with fresh, juicy berries
• The contrasting textures of soft spinach, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta are unbeatable
• The homemade berry vinaigrette adds a bright, tangy finish
• It’s fast to prep and looks stunning on any table
• Naturally gluten-free and easily adaptable for dietary preferences

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (In this headline mention the essential Tools and Equipment, also the importance of Each Tool)

To prepare Berry Spinach Salad, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools: a large mixing bowl for tossing the salad, a sharp chef’s knife for slicing fruits and onions, a small whisk or blender for the vinaigrette, and a measuring cup for precision. A salad spinner is also helpful for drying the spinach leaves to ensure they don’t water down the vinaigrette. These tools not only speed up your prep time but also help maintain the textures and freshness of each component.

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Preparation Tips

Always start by washing and fully drying the spinach and berries to keep the salad crisp and fresh. Use ripe, firm berries for the best flavor and presentation—soft or overripe fruit can make the salad soggy. Toasting the pecans enhances their nuttiness, and crumbling the feta yourself (rather than buying pre-crumbled) yields a creamier texture. Finally, drizzle the dressing just before serving to preserve the integrity of the greens.

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Ingredients for this Berry Spinach Salad

For the Salad:

• 6 cups fresh baby spinach, rinsed and dried
• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/2 cup blueberries
• 1/2 cup raspberries
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/3 cup chopped toasted pecans

For the Berry Vinaigrette:

• 1/2 cup fresh strawberries (or raspberries)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small blender or food processor, combine the strawberries, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Blend until smooth. Slowly add the olive oil while blending until the mixture emulsifies. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.

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Step 2: Toast the Pecans

Place chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for 3–5 minutes or until they’re fragrant and lightly golden. Remove from heat and let them cool completely before adding to the salad.

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Step 3: Prep the Salad Base

In a large salad bowl, add the baby spinach as the foundation. Make sure the leaves are dry and crisp to prevent sogginess.

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Step 4: Add Fruits and Veggies

Arrange the sliced strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries evenly across the spinach. Scatter in the thinly sliced red onions to add a bit of sharpness that balances the sweet berries.

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Step 5: Add Crunch and Creaminess

Top the salad with toasted pecans and crumbled feta cheese. These two components bring contrasting textures and bold flavors that elevate the freshness of the salad.

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Step 6: Dress and Toss

Drizzle the berry vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Use tongs or two large spoons to gently toss everything together, ensuring the ingredients are well coated without bruising the berries.

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Step 7: Serve Fresh

Transfer to individual plates or serve family-style. Enjoy immediately while the ingredients are at their freshest and most flavorful.

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Notes

This Berry Spinach Salad is as adaptable as it is delicious. You can swap the berries for what’s in season, such as blackberries or even pomegranate seeds. For added protein, grilled chicken or chickpeas make excellent additions. If you’re preparing the salad ahead of time, keep the dressing and toppings separate until serving to maintain peak texture and freshness.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Avoid adding the dressing too early—spinach wilts quickly when exposed to moisture. Using wet spinach can also water down the vinaigrette, so make sure to spin or pat dry thoroughly. Overripe berries can become mushy and compromise the salad’s texture. Lastly, don’t skip toasting the pecans; raw nuts won’t deliver the same depth of flavor or satisfying crunch.

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Storage Instructions

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. For longer freshness, store the components separately and combine them just before eating. The berry vinaigrette will keep in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. Give it a good shake before each use.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (approximate, for 4 servings):

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 9g
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 180mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best to store ingredients separately and assemble just before serving to avoid soggy spinach.

What other dressings go well with this salad?

A balsamic vinaigrette or poppy seed dressing also pairs wonderfully with the sweet berries.

Can I use frozen berries?

Fresh berries are best for texture and appearance, but thawed and drained frozen berries can be used in a pinch.

Is this salad vegan?

It can be! Simply omit the feta or use a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey in the vinaigrette.

What proteins pair well with this salad?

Grilled chicken, turkey, tofu, or even salmon make excellent additions.

How can I make this nut-free?

Swap pecans for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to keep the crunch without the allergens.

Can I use mixed greens instead of spinach?

Absolutely. Arugula or spring mix can be substituted, though they’ll offer different flavor notes.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! Kids usually enjoy the fruity sweetness—just go easy on the onions or omit them if needed.

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Conclusion

Berry Spinach Salad is a joyful, colorful way to bring fresh produce into your meals. It’s quick to assemble, loaded with nutrients, and endlessly customizable to suit your tastes. Whether you’re serving it as a side or building it into a full meal, this salad offers both visual appeal and satisfying flavor in every bite.

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