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Create a nutritious and vibrant spinach salad packed with wholesome ingredients like fresh berries, mandarin oranges, and creamy feta cheese. This recipe features a simple homemade balsamic dressing and crunchy toppings, making it ideal for healthy meals or quick side dishes. Whether for a family dinner, casual lunch, or special gathering, this salad is both delicious and visually appealing.

Ingredients

Dressing:

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Salad:

8 cups baby spinach
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 cup fresh strawberries
3/4 cup mandarin oranges
1/2 cup feta cheese
1/2 cup honey roasted peanuts

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Gradually add the olive oil while whisking continuously to ensure the mixture emulsifies. This will help prevent the dressing from separating.
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use. Shake or stir well before each use.

Assemble the Salad:

Wash and dry all the fruit. Remove the stems from the strawberries and slice them vertically.
Arrange the baby spinach on a large serving platter or bowl.
Drizzle 3-4 tablespoons of the prepared dressing over the spinach.
Top the salad with the blueberries, strawberries, mandarin oranges, and feta cheese.
Sprinkle honey roasted peanuts on top.
Add an additional drizzle of dressing if desired, and serve the remaining dressing on the side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh and Flavorful: Packed with vibrant fruits and creamy feta, this salad offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy days, it comes together in under 20 minutes.
Versatile: Great as a side dish or a light main course.
Healthy: Loaded with nutritious greens, fruits, and heart-healthy olive oil.

Tips

Emulsify the Dressing: Adding the olive oil gradually while whisking ensures the dressing stays combined.
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the dressing and slice the fruit in advance. Store separately until ready to assemble.
Keep it Crisp: Wait to add the dressing until just before serving to keep the spinach fresh.

Variations and Substitutions

Cheese Options: Swap feta for goat cheese or blue cheese for a different flavor.
Nut Alternatives: Use candied pecans or slivered almonds instead of honey roasted peanuts.
Fruit Swaps: Substitute or add raspberries, blackberries, or pomegranate seeds.
Dressing Variations: Experiment with a citrus vinaigrette or raspberry dressing for a fresh twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: Yes! Assemble the salad without the dressing, cover, and refrigerate. Add the dressing just before serving.

Q: Can I use frozen fruit? A: Fresh fruit is recommended for the best texture, but thawed frozen fruit can be used in a pinch.

Q: Is there a substitute for honey? A: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a sweetener in the dressing.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve this salad as a refreshing starter or pair it with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp for a complete meal.
Ideal for potlucks, picnics, or holiday gatherings.
Complement the salad with crusty bread or a light soup for a balanced meal.