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Blueberry Spinach Salad with Orange Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe

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  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant and refreshing Blueberry Spinach Salad featuring fresh baby spinach, juicy blueberries, crunchy toasted walnuts, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty orange poppy seed dressing. This light and nutritious salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a healthy side dish.


Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 cup blueberries
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp poppy seeds
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil


Instructions

  1. Prepare Spinach: Rinse and dry the spinach thoroughly using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towels to remove any dirt and excess water.
  2. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, and extra virgin olive oil until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
  3. Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, layer the baby spinach, then add blueberries, thinly sliced red onion, toasted walnuts, and crumbled feta cheese evenly on top.
  4. Toss Salad: Drizzle the prepared orange poppy seed dressing over the salad just before serving and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Serve: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the fresh crispness and vibrant flavors.

Notes

  • Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned.
  • For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup and omit feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
  • Make the dressing in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; whisk again before use.
  • This salad is best served fresh to keep the spinach crisp and prevent sogginess.