Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans Fresh and Flavorful

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- 5 cups fresh baby spinach - 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) - 1/2 cup pecans, toasted Fresh ingredients make this salad pop! Spinach brings a crisp feel, and berries add sweetness. You can mix strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful touch. The toasted pecans give a crunch that is hard to resist. - 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced - 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled - 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette Now, let's add some flavor. The red onion gives a nice bite, while feta adds creaminess. A drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together. You can use store-bought or make your own for an extra touch. - Salt and pepper to taste Finally, season to your liking. A pinch of salt and a dash of pepper can elevate the taste. It’s all about balancing flavors in this Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above. - Step 1: Add spinach to a large salad bowl. This forms the base of your salad. Make sure the spinach is fresh. Rinse it well to remove any dirt. Pat it dry with a clean towel. The leaves should be crisp and bright green. - Step 2: Prepare the mixed berries. Rinse your strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries under cold water. Use a paper towel to dry them gently. Slice the strawberries into halves or quarters, depending on their size. This makes them easier to eat. Add all the berries to the bowl with the spinach. - Step 3: Add pecans and red onion. Toast the pecans in a dry pan for a few minutes. This brings out their nutty flavor. Thinly slice the red onion. Add both to the salad. The crunch from the pecans and the bite from the onion make the salad exciting. - Step 4: Sprinkle feta cheese. Crumble the feta cheese over the salad. The creamy cheese balances the flavors. It adds a lovely touch to each bite. - Step 5: Drizzle dressing and toss gently. Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Use just enough to coat the ingredients. Toss gently to combine. Be careful not to crush the berries. You want them to stay whole for texture. - Step 6: Season and serve. Add salt and pepper to taste. This simple step enhances all the flavors. Serve the salad right away for the best taste. Enjoy your Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans! For the full recipe, check out the recipe section. To keep your salad fresh, toss it gently. This helps to prevent crushing the berries. When berries get crushed, they lose their shape and flavor. Choose berries that are ripe but firm. This way, they hold up better in the salad. A quick homemade balsamic vinaigrette is easy to make. Simply mix equal parts balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Shake well to blend. You can also add honey or mustard for extra flavor. Try different herbs too, like basil or oregano, to change it up. Serving your salad in individual bowls looks nice. It makes each guest feel special. For a pop of color, garnish with extra berries on top. A sprinkle of feta cheese adds a nice touch. Use a small sprig of mint for a fresh finish. These little details make your salad stand out. For the full recipe, check out the sections above! {{image_2}} You can make this salad your own by switching the nuts. If you prefer a different crunch, use walnuts or almonds. Both options bring their unique taste and texture to the dish. Cheese choices also add flair. Instead of feta, try creamy goat cheese or tangy blue cheese. These cheeses can bring a whole new flavor profile to your salad. Seasonal fruits can enhance the flavor. In autumn, add crisp apples or juicy pears. These fruits not only add sweetness but also a nice crunch. For creaminess, consider incorporating avocado. Its smooth texture complements the spinach and berries well. Experimenting with dressings can change the whole vibe of your salad. Try a citrus vinaigrette for a fresh, tangy kick. This bright dressing pairs well with the berries. If you want something richer, use a creamy dressing. It offers a different taste that contrasts nicely with the fresh ingredients. For the full recipe, check out the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans. Store any leftover Berry Spinach Salad in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. If you want to store the salad for later, separate the dressing. Mix it in just before serving. This way, the spinach stays crisp. To keep your ingredients fresh, use whole berries instead of cut ones. Wash and dry the spinach right before making the salad. This helps avoid sogginess. In the fridge, this salad lasts about 2 days. If it has dressing mixed in, eat it within 24 hours. For the best taste, eat it fresh. To store individual components, keep berries and nuts in separate containers. They will stay fresh longer this way. Spinach should stay in a breathable bag. This helps it avoid wilting. You cannot freeze a spinach salad. Freezing changes the texture and taste of spinach. However, you can freeze some components. For example, freeze berries in a single layer on a tray. Once frozen, move them to a bag. This way, you can use them later. Keep nuts in a cool, dry place. They can last longer if you store them in the fridge. For the full recipe, check out the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans. What can I substitute for pecans? If you want a nutty crunch, walnuts or almonds work well. You can also use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Each choice brings a unique flavor and keeps the salad tasty. Can I make the salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the salad ingredients ahead. Store the spinach, berries, and nuts separately. Mix them right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp. What are the health benefits of spinach and berries? Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K. It also has iron and calcium, which are great for bones. Berries are full of antioxidants and can boost your heart health. Together, they make a powerful, nutritious combo. Is this salad low in calories? Yes, this salad is low in calories. A serving has about 150 calories. It is light yet filling, perfect for a healthy meal or side dish. What goes well with a Berry Spinach Salad? This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it with a warm quiche or a light pasta dish. The fresh flavors balance rich meals perfectly. Can I add protein to this salad? Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a plant-based option. This addition makes the salad more filling and nutritious. For the full recipe, check out the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans. The Berry Spinach Salad combines fresh spinach, mixed berries, and pecans for a delicious meal. You learned how to mix flavors with red onion, feta, and a simple balsamic dressing. With tips on storage, dressing variations, and ingredient swaps, this salad is sure to please everyone. Whether you're looking for a light lunch or a tasty side, you can enjoy this healthy dish year-round. Get creative with your ingredients and enjoy the process. Your taste buds will thank you!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a fresh and flavorful dish that’s quick to make? Try my Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans! This vibrant salad combines sweet berries, crunchy nuts, and creamy feta, creating a perfect blend of tastes and textures. You’ll love how easy it is to whip together, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner. Join me as we explore the simple steps and ingredients to elevate your salad game!

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Ingredients

Fresh Ingredients for Berry Spinach Salad

– 5 cups fresh baby spinach

– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

– 1/2 cup pecans, toasted

Fresh ingredients make this salad pop! Spinach brings a crisp feel, and berries add sweetness. You can mix strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful touch. The toasted pecans give a crunch that is hard to resist.

Additional Flavor Components

– 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

– 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Now, let’s add some flavor. The red onion gives a nice bite, while feta adds creaminess. A drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together. You can use store-bought or make your own for an extra touch.

Seasoning Suggestions

– Salt and pepper to taste

Finally, season to your liking. A pinch of salt and a dash of pepper can elevate the taste. It’s all about balancing flavors in this Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Step 1: Add spinach to a large salad bowl. This forms the base of your salad. Make sure the spinach is fresh. Rinse it well to remove any dirt. Pat it dry with a clean towel. The leaves should be crisp and bright green.

– Step 2: Prepare the mixed berries. Rinse your strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries under cold water. Use a paper towel to dry them gently. Slice the strawberries into halves or quarters, depending on their size. This makes them easier to eat. Add all the berries to the bowl with the spinach.

Combining Ingredients

– Step 3: Add pecans and red onion. Toast the pecans in a dry pan for a few minutes. This brings out their nutty flavor. Thinly slice the red onion. Add both to the salad. The crunch from the pecans and the bite from the onion make the salad exciting.

– Step 4: Sprinkle feta cheese. Crumble the feta cheese over the salad. The creamy cheese balances the flavors. It adds a lovely touch to each bite.

Final Touches

– Step 5: Drizzle dressing and toss gently. Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Use just enough to coat the ingredients. Toss gently to combine. Be careful not to crush the berries. You want them to stay whole for texture.

– Step 6: Season and serve. Add salt and pepper to taste. This simple step enhances all the flavors. Serve the salad right away for the best taste. Enjoy your Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans! For the full recipe, check out the recipe section.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Salad Texture

To keep your salad fresh, toss it gently. This helps to prevent crushing the berries. When berries get crushed, they lose their shape and flavor. Choose berries that are ripe but firm. This way, they hold up better in the salad.

Making Your Own Dressing

A quick homemade balsamic vinaigrette is easy to make. Simply mix equal parts balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Shake well to blend. You can also add honey or mustard for extra flavor. Try different herbs too, like basil or oregano, to change it up.

Presentation Ideas

Serving your salad in individual bowls looks nice. It makes each guest feel special. For a pop of color, garnish with extra berries on top. A sprinkle of feta cheese adds a nice touch. Use a small sprig of mint for a fresh finish. These little details make your salad stand out. For the full recipe, check out the sections above!

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can make this salad your own by switching the nuts. If you prefer a different crunch, use walnuts or almonds. Both options bring their unique taste and texture to the dish.

Cheese choices also add flair. Instead of feta, try creamy goat cheese or tangy blue cheese. These cheeses can bring a whole new flavor profile to your salad.

Seasonal Additions

Seasonal fruits can enhance the flavor. In autumn, add crisp apples or juicy pears. These fruits not only add sweetness but also a nice crunch.

For creaminess, consider incorporating avocado. Its smooth texture complements the spinach and berries well.

Dressing Alternatives

Experimenting with dressings can change the whole vibe of your salad. Try a citrus vinaigrette for a fresh, tangy kick. This bright dressing pairs well with the berries.

If you want something richer, use a creamy dressing. It offers a different taste that contrasts nicely with the fresh ingredients.

For the full recipe, check out the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans.

Storage Info

Best Practices for Storage

Store any leftover Berry Spinach Salad in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. If you want to store the salad for later, separate the dressing. Mix it in just before serving. This way, the spinach stays crisp.

To keep your ingredients fresh, use whole berries instead of cut ones. Wash and dry the spinach right before making the salad. This helps avoid sogginess.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, this salad lasts about 2 days. If it has dressing mixed in, eat it within 24 hours. For the best taste, eat it fresh.

To store individual components, keep berries and nuts in separate containers. They will stay fresh longer this way. Spinach should stay in a breathable bag. This helps it avoid wilting.

Freezing Information

You cannot freeze a spinach salad. Freezing changes the texture and taste of spinach. However, you can freeze some components.

For example, freeze berries in a single layer on a tray. Once frozen, move them to a bag. This way, you can use them later. Keep nuts in a cool, dry place. They can last longer if you store them in the fridge.

For the full recipe, check out the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans.

FAQs

Common Questions about Berry Spinach Salad

What can I substitute for pecans?

If you want a nutty crunch, walnuts or almonds work well. You can also use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Each choice brings a unique flavor and keeps the salad tasty.

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the salad ingredients ahead. Store the spinach, berries, and nuts separately. Mix them right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

Nutritional Benefits

What are the health benefits of spinach and berries?

Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K. It also has iron and calcium, which are great for bones. Berries are full of antioxidants and can boost your heart health. Together, they make a powerful, nutritious combo.

Is this salad low in calories?

Yes, this salad is low in calories. A serving has about 150 calories. It is light yet filling, perfect for a healthy meal or side dish.

Serving Suggestions

What goes well with a Berry Spinach Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it with a warm quiche or a light pasta dish. The fresh flavors balance rich meals perfectly.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a plant-based option. This addition makes the salad more filling and nutritious.

For the full recipe, check out the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans.

The Berry Spinach Salad combines fresh spinach, mixed berries, and pecans for a delicious meal. You learned how to mix flavors with red onion, feta, and a simple balsamic dressing. With tips on storage, dressing variations, and ingredient swaps, this salad is sure to please everyone. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a tasty side, you can enjoy this healthy dish year-round. Get creative with your ingredients and enjoy the process. Your taste buds will thank you!

- 5 cups fresh baby spinach - 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) - 1/2 cup pecans, toasted Fresh ingredients make this salad pop! Spinach brings a crisp feel, and berries add sweetness. You can mix strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful touch. The toasted pecans give a crunch that is hard to resist. - 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced - 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled - 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette Now, let's add some flavor. The red onion gives a nice bite, while feta adds creaminess. A drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together. You can use store-bought or make your own for an extra touch. - Salt and pepper to taste Finally, season to your liking. A pinch of salt and a dash of pepper can elevate the taste. It’s all about balancing flavors in this Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above. - Step 1: Add spinach to a large salad bowl. This forms the base of your salad. Make sure the spinach is fresh. Rinse it well to remove any dirt. Pat it dry with a clean towel. The leaves should be crisp and bright green. - Step 2: Prepare the mixed berries. Rinse your strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries under cold water. Use a paper towel to dry them gently. Slice the strawberries into halves or quarters, depending on their size. This makes them easier to eat. Add all the berries to the bowl with the spinach. - Step 3: Add pecans and red onion. Toast the pecans in a dry pan for a few minutes. This brings out their nutty flavor. Thinly slice the red onion. Add both to the salad. The crunch from the pecans and the bite from the onion make the salad exciting. - Step 4: Sprinkle feta cheese. Crumble the feta cheese over the salad. The creamy cheese balances the flavors. It adds a lovely touch to each bite. - Step 5: Drizzle dressing and toss gently. Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Use just enough to coat the ingredients. Toss gently to combine. Be careful not to crush the berries. You want them to stay whole for texture. - Step 6: Season and serve. Add salt and pepper to taste. This simple step enhances all the flavors. Serve the salad right away for the best taste. Enjoy your Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans! For the full recipe, check out the recipe section. To keep your salad fresh, toss it gently. This helps to prevent crushing the berries. When berries get crushed, they lose their shape and flavor. Choose berries that are ripe but firm. This way, they hold up better in the salad. A quick homemade balsamic vinaigrette is easy to make. Simply mix equal parts balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Shake well to blend. You can also add honey or mustard for extra flavor. Try different herbs too, like basil or oregano, to change it up. Serving your salad in individual bowls looks nice. It makes each guest feel special. For a pop of color, garnish with extra berries on top. A sprinkle of feta cheese adds a nice touch. Use a small sprig of mint for a fresh finish. These little details make your salad stand out. For the full recipe, check out the sections above! {{image_2}} You can make this salad your own by switching the nuts. If you prefer a different crunch, use walnuts or almonds. Both options bring their unique taste and texture to the dish. Cheese choices also add flair. Instead of feta, try creamy goat cheese or tangy blue cheese. These cheeses can bring a whole new flavor profile to your salad. Seasonal fruits can enhance the flavor. In autumn, add crisp apples or juicy pears. These fruits not only add sweetness but also a nice crunch. For creaminess, consider incorporating avocado. Its smooth texture complements the spinach and berries well. Experimenting with dressings can change the whole vibe of your salad. Try a citrus vinaigrette for a fresh, tangy kick. This bright dressing pairs well with the berries. If you want something richer, use a creamy dressing. It offers a different taste that contrasts nicely with the fresh ingredients. For the full recipe, check out the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans. Store any leftover Berry Spinach Salad in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. If you want to store the salad for later, separate the dressing. Mix it in just before serving. This way, the spinach stays crisp. To keep your ingredients fresh, use whole berries instead of cut ones. Wash and dry the spinach right before making the salad. This helps avoid sogginess. In the fridge, this salad lasts about 2 days. If it has dressing mixed in, eat it within 24 hours. For the best taste, eat it fresh. To store individual components, keep berries and nuts in separate containers. They will stay fresh longer this way. Spinach should stay in a breathable bag. This helps it avoid wilting. You cannot freeze a spinach salad. Freezing changes the texture and taste of spinach. However, you can freeze some components. For example, freeze berries in a single layer on a tray. Once frozen, move them to a bag. This way, you can use them later. Keep nuts in a cool, dry place. They can last longer if you store them in the fridge. For the full recipe, check out the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans. What can I substitute for pecans? If you want a nutty crunch, walnuts or almonds work well. You can also use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Each choice brings a unique flavor and keeps the salad tasty. Can I make the salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the salad ingredients ahead. Store the spinach, berries, and nuts separately. Mix them right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp. What are the health benefits of spinach and berries? Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K. It also has iron and calcium, which are great for bones. Berries are full of antioxidants and can boost your heart health. Together, they make a powerful, nutritious combo. Is this salad low in calories? Yes, this salad is low in calories. A serving has about 150 calories. It is light yet filling, perfect for a healthy meal or side dish. What goes well with a Berry Spinach Salad? This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it with a warm quiche or a light pasta dish. The fresh flavors balance rich meals perfectly. Can I add protein to this salad? Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a plant-based option. This addition makes the salad more filling and nutritious. For the full recipe, check out the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans. The Berry Spinach Salad combines fresh spinach, mixed berries, and pecans for a delicious meal. You learned how to mix flavors with red onion, feta, and a simple balsamic dressing. With tips on storage, dressing variations, and ingredient swaps, this salad is sure to please everyone. Whether you're looking for a light lunch or a tasty side, you can enjoy this healthy dish year-round. Get creative with your ingredients and enjoy the process. Your taste buds will thank you!

Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans

Discover the vibrant flavors of this Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, the perfect healthy dish for any occasion! Packed with fresh baby spinach, juicy mixed berries, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta, this salad is as delicious as it is colorful. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that dazzles your taste buds. Click to explore the full recipe and enjoy a tasty twist on your salad routine!
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Ingredients
  

5 cups fresh baby spinach, washed and dried

1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

1/2 cup pecans, toasted

1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette (store-bought or homemade)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

In a large salad bowl, add the fresh baby spinach.

    Rinse the mixed berries and pat them dry with a paper towel. Slice the strawberries into halves or quarters depending on their size, and then add them to the bowl.

      Add the toasted pecans and thinly sliced red onion to the salad.

        Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top.

          Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad.

            Gently toss all the ingredients together until they are well combined, being careful not to crush the berries.

              Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in individual bowls and garnish with a few extra berries and a sprinkle of feta on top for a beautiful finish.

                    WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?