Mixed Berry and Spinach Salad

Summary

Let’s dive right into the heart of a dish that’s not only visually vibrant but also nutritionally sound! Our Mixed Berry and Spinach Salad is a delightful blend of flavors, colors, and health benefits. If you’re looking for a meal that’s as easy on the eyes as it is on the palate while packing a nutritious punch, you’re in the right place. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• Spinach: 4 cups (about 250g)
• Strawberries: 1 cup, sliced (150g)
• Blueberries: 1 cup (150g)
• Raspberries: 1 cup (150g)
• Blackberries: 1 cup (150g)
• Feta cheese: ½ cup, crumbled (100g)
• Walnuts: ¼ cup, chopped (30g)
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp (30ml)
• Balsamic vinegar: 1 tbsp (15ml)
• Honey: 1 tbsp (15ml)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation and Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Serves: 2

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 8g
• Carbs: 34g
• Fiber: 8g
• Fat: 14g
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 260mg

Instructions:

1. Begin by washing all your fruits and the spinach under cold water to ensure they’re fresh and free of any residue.
2. Lay the spinach as a bed in your serving bowl.
3. Strategically place the strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries over the spinach, ensuring a good mix and even distribution.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to create your dressing.
6. Drizzle this dressing generously over your Mixed Berry and Spinach Salad.
7. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped walnuts on top for that added crunch.

Tips:

1. When picking berries, look for those that are firm, plump, and without blemishes for the best results.
2. If you’re not a fan of feta, you can replace it with goat cheese or leave it out altogether.
3. For an added touch of zing, you can include a squeeze of fresh lemon in your dressing.
4. Always dress your Mixed Berry and Spinach Salad right before serving to keep the spinach fresh and avoid it becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions:

• This Mixed Berry and Spinach Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or a light fish dish.
• Consider serving it with a chilled glass of flavored sparkling water for a refreshing summer meal.
• Crusty bread or garlic toast can also complement this salad, giving an added texture to the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What kind of spinach works best for this salad?
   Baby spinach is typically preferred due to its tender leaves and mild flavor. However, you can also use regular spinach, but make sure to remove any tough stems.
2. Can I use frozen berries for this salad?
   While fresh berries are ideal for their texture and taste, you can use thawed frozen berries in a pinch. Ensure they are properly drained to avoid excess moisture.
3. How can I store leftover salad?
   It’s best to store the salad undressed in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’ve already added the dressing, consume it within a day to avoid the spinach getting soggy.
4. What other nuts can I use besides walnuts?
   Almonds, pecans, or pine nuts are great alternatives that add crunch and flavor to the salad.
5. Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
   Absolutely! The dressing can be whisked together and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Give it a good stir before using.
6. Are there any alternatives to honey in the dressing?
   Yes, you can substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for honey if you prefer a vegan option or simply for a different taste.
7. What’s the best way to ensure my berries are clean and free from pesticides?
   Soaking berries in a solution of vinegar and water (1:3 ratio) for about 5 minutes and then rinsing them under cold water can help in removing any residues.
8. Can I add protein to this salad to make it a main course?
   Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can be added to boost the protein content and make it a more filling dish.
9. What are some wine pairings for this berry and spinach salad?
   A light and crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a Rosé pairs wonderfully with the fruity and tangy elements of this salad.
10. How do I ensure the feta cheese doesn’t overpower the other ingredients?
    If you’re concerned about the feta being too strong, you can either reduce the amount used or opt for a milder cheese like goat cheese or fresh mozzarella.

Courtesy of AH7: Where health meets taste! We’re committed to bringing you recipes that not only tantalize your taste buds but also ensure you’re taking a step towards a healthier lifestyle. Dive into our world where every dish is a journey of flavors and nutrition.

Mixed Berry and Spinach Salad

Let’s dive right into the heart of a dish that’s not only visually vibrant but also nutritionally sound! Our **Mixed Berry and Spinach Salad** is a delightful blend of flavors, colors, and health benefits. If you’re looking for a meal that’s as easy on the eyes as it is on the palate while packing a nutritious punch, you’re in the right place. Let’s get started!

5 from 1 vote

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Total Time: 15 minutes minutes

Nutritions

Nutrition Facts

Mixed Berry and Spinach Salad

Amount per Serving

Calories

278

% Daily Value*

Fat

 

14

g

22

%

Sodium

 

258

mg

11

%

Carbohydrates

 

34

g

11

%

Fiber

 

8

g

33

%

Sugar

 

22

g

24

%

Protein

 

8

g

16

%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Ingredients

• – Spinach: 4 cups about 250g
• – Strawberries: 1 cup sliced (150g)
• – Blueberries: 1 cup 150g
• – Raspberries: 1 cup 150g
• – Blackberries: 1 cup 150g
• – Feta cheese: ½ cup crumbled (100g)
• – Walnuts: ¼ cup chopped (30g)
• – Olive oil: 2 tbsp 30ml
• – Balsamic vinegar: 1 tbsp 15ml
• – Honey: 1 tbsp 15ml
• – Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Begin by washing all your fruits and the spinach under cold water to ensure they’re fresh and free of any residue.
• Lay the spinach as a bed in your serving bowl.
• Strategically place the strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries over the spinach, ensuring a good mix and even distribution.
• Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to create your dressing.
• Drizzle this dressing generously over your Mixed Berry and Spinach Salad.
• Finish with a sprinkle of chopped walnuts on top for that added crunch.

Notes

1. When picking berries, look for those that are firm, plump, and without blemishes for the best results.
2. If you’re not a fan of feta, you can replace it with goat cheese or leave it out altogether.
3. For an added touch of zing, you can include a squeeze of fresh lemon in your dressing.
4. Always dress your Mixed Berry and Spinach Salad right before serving to keep the spinach fresh and avoid it becoming soggy.