Spinach, Blueberries, Raspberries, Mandarin Oranges, Pecans, Feta, and Honey-Balsamic Dressing Salad
A vibrant and nutritious salad combining fresh spinach, seasonal fruits, and a tangy honey-balsamic dressing.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 250kcal
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups baby spinach leaves Crisp and nutrient-packed as the base.
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries Juicy little gems bursting with flavor.
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries Sweet, plump, and vibrant.
- 1/2 cup mandarin orange segments Fresh or drained canned for a hint of sweetness.
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans Crunchy, nutty elements that add depth.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese Creamy and slightly tangy for richness.
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil A smooth, healthy fat.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar A tangy contrast to the sweetness of fruits.
- 1 tablespoon honey Natural sweetener that binds the flavors together.
- to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper For seasoning to taste.
Instructions
Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, and olive oil until they are well combined and smooth. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess to suit your taste and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Toast the Pecans
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat, add the pecans, and stir them often for about 3–4 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly golden. Remove from heat and let cool.
Assemble the Salad
- In a large serving bowl, place the baby spinach as the base.
- Scatter the blueberries, raspberries, and mandarin orange segments over the spinach.
- Top with toasted pecans and crumbled feta cheese.
Dress the Salad
- Right before serving, drizzle the honey-balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients, being careful not to bruise the spinach.
Notes
For extra crunch, consider adding toasted sesame seeds. You can swap feta for goat cheese for a different flavor. To make it a main dish, add grilled chicken or chickpeas.