Summer Salad with Spinach & Blackberries – Fresh and Light
Brighten up your summer meals with this refreshing summer salad with spinach and blackberries. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something light but satisfying!
Brighten up your summer meals with this refreshing summer salad with spinach and blackberries. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something light but satisfying!
Summer Salad with Spinach & Blackberries
- Refreshing twist with sweet blackberries.
- Fast and easy to whip up in under 15 minutes.
- Naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly, making it perfect for various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 1 cup blackberries, rinsed
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make
Begin by preparing your ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the washed spinach leaves, fresh blackberries, crumbled feta cheese, walnuts, and sliced red onion. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the top and gently toss the salad to ensure everything is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Tips
- Use ripe blackberries for the best sweetness and flavor.
- Experiment with different nuts like pecans or almonds for variety.
- Try adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
Make-Ahead
Prep the ingredients ahead of time by washing and cutting the veggies; store them separately in the fridge. Combine everything just before serving to maintain the freshness.
Storing
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the greens from wilting.
Freezing
It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as fresh ingredients do not thaw well after being frozen.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold and does not require reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this summer salad with grilled meats or serve it as a light lunch with a crusty bread, or enjoy it on its own for a quick, healthy meal.
For a seamless experience, check out this salad spinner to keep your greens fresh and crisp!
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 1 cup blackberries, rinsed
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Combine ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the washed spinach leaves, fresh blackberries, crumbled feta cheese, walnuts, and sliced red onion.
Dress the salad
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the top.
Toss to coat
Gently toss the salad to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Season and serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- Use ripe blackberries for the best sweetness and flavor.
- Experiment with different nuts like pecans or almonds for variety.
- Try adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I omit the feta cheese to make this vegan?
Yes, simply omit the feta; you can add extra nuts or avocado for creaminess.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, prep the components (wash spinach, wash berries, slice onion) and combine with dressing just before serving.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free.
What can I add for protein?
Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu pair well with this salad.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep dressing separate and store components in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
