Spinach Salad with Blackberry Vinaigrette: A Fresh & Vibrant Recipe Guide
A nutrient-packed dish that balances sweet fruit and crunchy nuts for a fresh, healthful boost.
Spinach Salad with Blackberry Vinaigrette
This vibrant spinach salad with blackberry vinaigrette brings together the sweetness of fresh berries, the crunch of nuts, and the earthiness of spinach, all tied together with a tangy-sweet homemade dressing. Perfect for spring and summer menus, this salad makes both a fantastic light meal or an impressive first course for gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
- Bright and Refreshing: The combination of juicy blackberries, tender spinach, and zippy dressing makes every bite lively and satisfying.
- Nutritious: Spinach and berries provide a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal chopping and a quick-blended homemade dressing, you’ll have a show-stopping salad in just minutes.
- Versatile: Customize with additional fruits, cheeses, or nuts for your perfect salad experience.
Core Ingredients and Substitutions
Understanding each ingredient helps you make substitutions based on dietary needs or what’s in your pantry.
| Ingredient | Purpose | Possible Substitutes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Spinach | Salad base, provides nutrients and texture | Mixed greens, baby kale, arugula |
| Blackberries | Sweet, slightly tart fruit for both salad & dressing | Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries (or a mix) |
| Red Onion | Adds sharpness and color | Shallots, green onions, omit if desired |
| Toasted Pecans | Crunch and nutty flavor | Almonds, walnuts, pepitas, or sunflower seeds |
| Goat Cheese | Creamy, tangy richness | Feta, blue cheese, vegan cheese, omit for dairy-free |
| Additional Berries | Variety of sweetness and color | Any combination of seasonal berries |
Blackberry Vinaigrette: The Star of the Salad
This homemade vinaigrette is what elevates the salad beyond the ordinary. Its blend of sweet blackberries and tangy vinegar, complemented by a hint of honey and mustard, delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Vinaigrette Ingredients
- Fresh blackberries: For color and natural sweetness. Frozen can be used when fresh isn’t available.
- Dijon mustard: Balances sweetness and adds mild sharpness.
- Vinegar: White wine, red wine, or apple cider vinegar can all work.
- Honey (or maple syrup): Adds sweetness. Use agave for vegan option.
- Olive oil: Gives the dressing body and richness.
- Seasonings: Touch of salt, black pepper, and optional allspice or cinnamon for depth.
Step-by-Step Vinaigrette Preparation
- Blend Ingredients: Place the blackberries, mustard, vinegar, honey, and seasoning in a blender or food processor.
- Emulsify: While blending, slowly drizzle in olive oil to create a smooth, slightly thickened vinaigrette.
- Strain (Optional): For a silky texture, strain the dressing to remove seeds. For more fiber and rustic appeal, leave as is.
Tip: Blackberry vinaigrette keeps well, refrigerated, for up to a week. Always shake or stir before using as it may separate.
Salad Assembly Instructions
- Prep the Vegetables: Rinse and dry the spinach thoroughly for the crispiest texture. Thinly slice red onion and prepare other vegetables.
- Toast the Nuts: Toast pecan halves (or alternative nuts) in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant. Cool before adding.
- Toss the Greens: In a large bowl, gently toss spinach (and wild garlic mustard if using).
- Add Toppings: Layer on berries, red onion, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted pecans.
- Dress: Drizzle with blackberry vinaigrette just before serving. Toss gently to coat or serve dressing on the side for guests to add to taste.
What others are reading
Ingredient Quantities (Serves 4)
- 5–6 cups fresh spinach (baby leaves preferred)
- 1/2 cup fresh blackberries (plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries – optional)
- 1/3 cup toasted pecan halves (or sliced almonds/walnuts)
- 1/2 small red onion, paper-thin slices
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Blackberry vinaigrette (see recipe above – about ½ cup)
More Customization Ideas
- Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Make It Vegan: Use vegan cheese or omit cheese, substitute honey with agave or maple syrup.
- Try Wild Greens: Use foraged garlic mustard or arugula for a peppery twist.
- Seasonal Swaps: In the fall, substitute pears or apples for berries and use toasted walnuts or pumpkin seeds.
Nutrition Highlights
- Spinach: Rich in iron, vitamin K, and fiber
- Blackberries: Loaded with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants
- Goat Cheese: Adds protein and calcium (omit for dairy-free)
- Nuts: Provide healthy fats, Vitamin E, and crunchy texture
Overall, this salad is low in added sugar, high in dietary fiber, and packed with nutrients that support immune function, digestion, and heart health.
Tips for Perfect Spinach Salads
- Dry the Greens Thoroughly: Excess moisture will water down the vinaigrette.
- Layer Ingredients Lightly: Gently toss or layer to avoid bruising delicate spinach and berries.
- Serve Immediately: Dress just before serving to keep greens crisp.
- Balance Flavors: Include a salty element (cheese or nuts), a sweet note (berries or dressing), and a sharp pop (onion or vinaigrette).
Storing and Make-Ahead Instructions
- Vinaigrette: Can be made up to a week ahead, kept in a sealed jar in the refrigerator. Shake before using.
- Salad Base: Prep and store spinach, berries, and other toppings separately in airtight containers. Assemble just before serving.
- Leftovers: Tossed salad will keep for 1 day, though the greens may wilt from the dressing. For best texture, store undressed salad and dressing separately if making ahead.
Serving Suggestions
- Light Lunch: Add grilled chicken breast for a protein-packed meal.
- Side Salad: Serve with grilled fish, roast meats, or sandwiches.
- Celebration Table: The colorful ingredients make this salad a beautiful addition to holiday or brunch buffets.
- Picnics & Potlucks: Layer in a jar for a portable, make-ahead option; store dressing separately until serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen blackberries for the vinaigrette?
A: Yes, thawed frozen blackberries work well for vinaigrette. Blend thoroughly and strain to remove seeds for best texture.
Q: What can I use instead of goat cheese?
A: Feta, blue cheese, or a vegan cheese alternative all work well; you may also omit cheese for a dairy-free salad.
Q: How do I make this salad nut-free?
A: Substitute toasted sunflower seeds or pepitas, or simply leave out the nuts for an allergy-friendly dish.
Q: How long will the dressing keep in the fridge?
A: When stored in a sealed container, blackberry vinaigrette stays fresh for up to 7 days. Stir or shake before each use.
Q: Can I prepare this salad in advance?
A: Yes, but assemble and dress just before serving to maintain crispness. Prepare ingredients ahead, store separately, and toss with vinaigrette when ready to eat.
Recipe Variations from Around the Web
- Mixed Berry Version: Use a variety of fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries) for extra flavor and color.
- Cherry Tomato Addition: Add halved cherry tomatoes for more color and a juicy bite.
- Foraged Greens: Experiment with wild garlic mustard for a peppery note and culinary adventure.
- Keto & Vegan Adaptability: Choose vegan cheese or skip cheese and use maple/agave syrup for a vegan-friendly salad.
Nutritional Snapshot (Approximate, Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180–250 kcal |
| Protein | 6–8 g |
| Total Fat | 12–16 g |
| Fiber | 4–6 g |
| Vitamin C | 35–40% DV |
| Vitamin K | 40–50% DV |
| Calcium | 8–10% DV |
*Values may vary depending on added protein, cheese, and specific produce used.
Final Tips & Creative Serving Ideas
- Garnish with edible flowers for a spectacular presentation at special events.
- Serve the salad plated individually or piled high on a large serving platter to showcase its vibrant colors.
- For a refreshing twist, add some citrus segments (orange, grapefruit) to the salad.
- Layer ingredients in a glass bowl or trifle dish to highlight the colors for parties and potlucks.
Make It Your Own!
Let your creativity shine by adapting this recipe to each season or occasion. The core components—fresh greens, sweet-tart berries, crunchy nuts, and silky dressing—are easy to customize. Whether for a family dinner or festive gathering, this spinach salad with blackberry vinaigrette provides stunning flavor and a feast for the eyes.
References
- https://www.wellreadtart.com/mixed-berry-spinach-salad-with-blackberry-vinaigrette/
- https://sweetlifebake.com/blackberry-vinaigrette-and-spinach-salad/
- https://www.alphafoodie.com/easy-spinach-and-blackberry-salad/
- https://www.aicr.org/cancer-prevention/recipes/baby-greens-with-blackberry-vinaigrette/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/recipes/g44375851/4th-of-july-salads/
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