Spinach Berry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
Introduction
This Spinach Berry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a fresh, vibrant dish perfect for a light lunch or a colorful side. The sweetness of mixed berries pairs beautifully with tangy feta and a creamy poppy seed dressing.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup poppy seed dressing
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, mixed berries, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Step 2: Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Use baby spinach for a more tender texture.
- Substitute goat cheese for feta for a creamier, tangier option.
- Add toasted nuts like almonds or pecans for extra crunch.
- For a vegan version, omit the cheese and use a dairy-free dressing.
Storage
Store any leftover salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing refrigerated. Toss salad with dressing just before serving to prevent wilting.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?
It’s best to use fresh berries to maintain texture and flavor, as frozen berries can become mushy when thawed.
What can I substitute for poppy seed dressing?
Honey mustard or balsamic vinaigrette dressings make great alternatives if you want a different flavor profile.
PrintSpinach Berry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
A refreshing and vibrant Spinach Berry Salad featuring fresh mixed berries, creamy feta cheese, and a sweet poppy seed dressing. This easy-to-prepare salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish, combining nutritious greens with delightful bursts of berry flavor and a tangy, slightly sweet dressing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and dried
- 1 cup mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries), washed and drained
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Dressing
- 1/4 cup poppy seed dressing
Instructions
- Prepare the salad base: In a large salad bowl, add 4 cups of fresh spinach leaves, ensuring they are well washed and dried to prevent sogginess.
- Add the berries and cheese: Gently fold in 1 cup of mixed berries including strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, followed by 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese to add a creamy, tangy contrast to the fresh fruit and greens.
- Toss with dressing: Drizzle 1/4 cup of poppy seed dressing evenly over the salad ingredients. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all components with the dressing.
- Serve fresh: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the crispness of the spinach and the freshness of the berries, making it a perfect quick and healthy dish.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor and texture.
- Feta cheese can be substituted with goat cheese for a different tangy twist.
- For a vegan option, omit the feta or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Poppy seed dressing can be homemade or store-bought according to convenience.
- This salad is best served immediately after tossing to maintain freshness.
Keywords: Spinach Berry Salad, Poppy Seed Dressing, Healthy Salad, Berry Salad with Feta, No Cook Salad, Fresh Spinach Salad
