If you’re craving a salad that bursts with flavor, texture, and vibrant color, this Blueberry Spinach Salad with Orange Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe should be your next go-to. It’s a refreshing mix of tender baby spinach leaves, juicy blueberries, crunchy toasted walnuts, and tangy crumbled feta, all brought together by a bright, zesty orange poppy seed dressing that ties everything into a perfect harmony. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a stunning side dish, this salad combines simple, wholesome ingredients that feel special enough for any occasion but are incredibly easy to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity: each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a balance of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors along with contrasting textures. From the fresh greens to the creamy feta and the zesty dressing, every single element is essential.
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach: The tender leaves provide a mild, fresh base and a vivid green color that is visually appealing.
- 1 cup blueberries: These add a juicy sweetness that pops in every bite, perfectly complementing the spinach.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a subtle sharpness and crunch for contrast.
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted: Toasting releases their rich, nutty flavor and adds a satisfying crunch.
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Brings a creamy, salty tang that contrasts beautifully with the sweet berries.
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice: The star of the dressing, providing bright citrus notes and natural sweetness.
- 2 tbsp honey: Balances the acidity with its gentle sweetness.
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds depth and a slightly sharp kick to the dressing.
- 2 tbsp poppy seeds: Give the dressing a subtle crunch and lovely visual interest.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: Smooths and emulsifies the dressing, bringing everything together.
How to Make Blueberry Spinach Salad with Orange Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the spinach
Start by rinsing your fresh baby spinach thoroughly to remove any grit. Dry the leaves completely—this helps the dressing stick better and keeps the salad crisp.
Step 2: Whisk the dressing
In a small bowl, combine fresh orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, and extra virgin olive oil. Whisk everything together until the dressing is smooth and emulsified, ready to coat each bite with zesty sweetness.
Step 3: Assemble the salad
In a large bowl, begin by layering your washed spinach leaves. Then scatter the blueberries and thinly sliced red onion over the top. Add the warm crunch of toasted walnuts next, followed by the creamy crumbles of feta cheese for richness.
Step 4: Dress and toss
Drizzle the freshly made orange poppy seed dressing over the salad just before serving. Gently toss the salad to coat everything evenly, being careful not to bruise the delicate berries or wilt the spinach.
Step 5: Serve immediately
This salad is at its best right after dressing is added—fresh, crisp, and bursting with flavor. Serve it straight away and watch it disappear.
How to Serve Blueberry Spinach Salad with Orange Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful finishing touch, consider sprinkling some extra poppy seeds or a few whole blueberries on top. Adding fresh orange zest enhances the citrus notes and makes the dish even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or even a light fish dish like salmon. It can also complement a hearty grain bowl or be served as a refreshing starter before a rich pasta meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the salad in individual glass bowls to showcase the colorful layers, or use a large wooden bowl to add a rustic, homey feel. For parties, putting the salad on a bed of mixed greens with edible flowers makes it a true showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. This keeps the spinach crisp and prevents the salad from becoming soggy. Combine and toss fresh just before eating.
Freezing
Because this salad thrives on fresh textures, freezing is not recommended. Ingredients like spinach, blueberries, and dressing do not freeze well and will lose their appealing texture and flavor.
Reheating
This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature and is not meant to be reheated. Enjoy it fresh to experience the full range of flavors and textures.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries for this salad?
Fresh blueberries are best for maintaining the salad’s texture and flavor, but if you only have frozen ones, thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid to avoid making the salad soggy.
Is there a vegan option for this salad?
Absolutely! You can swap out the feta cheese for a vegan cheese alternative or omit it altogether while boosting the nuts for added richness. Just make sure your honey is replaced with a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup.
How long does the Orange Poppy Seed Dressing last?
The dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week in a sealed jar or container. Always give it a good shake before use, as ingredients may naturally separate.
Can I substitute the walnuts with another nut?
Yes, pecans or sliced almonds work wonderfully here, adding their own unique crunch and flavor to the salad.
What can I do if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
Regular yellow mustard can be used in a pinch, though it will be less sharp. You might want to add just a bit less to keep the balance of flavors in check.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re feeling inspired to try this delightful Blueberry Spinach Salad with Orange Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe very soon. It’s a fresh, flavorful, and wonderfully balanced salad that feels like a little celebration in every bite. Whether for a simple weekday lunch or a festive occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen, bringing bright colors and juicy freshness to your table with minimal fuss.
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Blueberry Spinach Salad with Orange Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant Blueberry Spinach Salad featuring juicy blueberries, crunchy toasted walnuts, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty orange poppy seed dressing. Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad is perfect as a light lunch or a colorful side dish that combines sweet, savory, and citrus flavors in each bite.
Ingredients
Salad
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the spinach: Rinse and thoroughly dry 4 cups of fresh baby spinach to remove any dirt or moisture, ensuring the leaves remain crisp in the salad.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup fresh orange juice, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons poppy seeds, and 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, layer the fresh baby spinach, then scatter 1 cup blueberries, 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion, 1/2 cup chopped and toasted walnuts, and finally 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese evenly over the greens.
- Add the dressing: Drizzle the prepared orange poppy seed dressing over the salad just before serving to keep the spinach crisp. Gently toss the salad to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste and enjoy the balance of sweet, savory, and citrus flavors.
Notes
- To toast walnuts, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
- For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup and use a vegan cheese alternative or omit the feta cheese.
- Make the dressing in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; whisk again before using.
- Ensure to toss the salad gently to avoid bruising the spinach and breaking the blueberries.
- Can be served as a light main dish or as a side salad with grilled chicken or fish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
