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
Scale
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
