Treat yourself to a delightful and nourishing salad bursting with colorful fruits and veggies. This Spinach and Blueberry Salad takes just 10 minutes to prepare and is accented with a tart and tangy homemade cranberry vinaigrette that perfectly complements the ingredients.
Vibrant red and green spinach leaves provide a nutrient-dense base while juicy blueberries deliver pops of sweetness. Toasted almonds add crunch and protein to make this a well-rounded light meal. Served with a glass of chilled cranberry juice, this salad is sure to refresh your senses.
Each portion of this 4-serving salad contains only 150 calories and offers a powerhouse dose of vitamins A, C, E, and K. The cranberries are rich in antioxidants while the spinach overflows with iron, helping to keep you energized.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 5 oz baby spinach leaves, washed (140g)
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (150g)
- 1⁄4 cup sliced almonds, toasted (25g)
- 1⁄4 red onion, thinly sliced (40g)
For the Dressing
- 1⁄4 cup cranberry juice (60mL)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (30mL)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (15mL)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- - Salt and pepper to taste
Method
- In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients. Set aside.
- In a large salad bowl, arrange spinach leaves. Top with blueberries, almonds and red onion.
- Drizzle desired amount of vinaigrette over salad just before serving.
- Serve salad accompanied by a chilled glass of pure cranberry juice. Enjoy!
Expert Tips
- Use an array of colors for visual appeal - try substituting strawberries for blueberries.
- Toast nuts in a dry pan for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.
- Whisk dressing right before using for best emulsion and flavor.
- Substitute apple cider vinegar for the lemon juice for a sweeter profile.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh? Yes, use frozen blueberries thawed and drained of excess juice.
- What kind of cranberry juice is best? Opt for pure, unsweetened cranberry juice with no added sugar.
- How long does the dressing keep? Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
With its refreshing medley of fruits, veggies, nuts and juices, this colorful salad is a feast for the eyes and palate. The medley of flavors and textures will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. I hope you enjoy this fresh new salad idea! Let me know if you need any other recipe inspiration.