Bright, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, this Berry Spinach Salad is your perfect go-to for a light lunch, a colorful dinner side, or even a vibrant brunch addition. With juicy strawberries and blueberries layered over tender spinach leaves, the salad is beautifully balanced with crunchy pecans, sharp red onions, and creamy crumbles of feta cheese. A drizzle of tangy balsamic vinaigrette ties it all together with just the right amount of zing.

Whether you’re looking for something quick to throw together or trying to impress guests with a colorful dish, this salad delivers freshness in every bite. It’s not just a feast for the eyes but also a great source of antioxidants, fiber, and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Berry Spinach Salad

Quick & Easy: Ready in minutes with minimal prep.
Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and heart-healthy fats.
Perfectly Balanced Flavors: Sweet berries, tangy dressing, and salty cheese.
Versatile: Ideal for lunch, dinner sides, or potlucks.
Customizable: Add grilled chicken, avocado, or nuts to make it your own.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting this salad on the table is a breeze, especially if you have the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large Salad Bowl: Essential for tossing ingredients evenly without spillage.
Chef’s Knife: For slicing strawberries and red onions cleanly.
Cutting Board: A sturdy surface to prepare all your fresh ingredients.
Measuring Cups/Spoons: To portion the dressing and toppings accurately.
Small Mixing Bowl: For whisking the balsamic vinaigrette dressing.
Salad Tongs: To gently toss and serve without bruising the greens.

Each tool helps streamline your prep and ensures the salad looks as good as it tastes. Once everything is chopped and ready, assembling takes less than 5 minutes.

Ingredients for the Berry Spinach Salad

Fresh Spinach: The leafy base that adds volume and nutrients.
Strawberries: Juicy, sweet, and visually vibrant.
Blueberries: Add bursts of tangy sweetness.
Red Onion: Offers sharp contrast and depth of flavor.
Feta Cheese: Brings a creamy, salty element.
Candied Pecans: Provide crunch and a hint of sweetness.
Balsamic Vinaigrette: Tangy dressing that ties all the ingredients together.

How To Make the Berry Spinach Salad

Step 1: Prep the Produce

Wash and pat dry the spinach, strawberries, and blueberries. Hull and slice the strawberries, and thinly slice the red onion.

Step 2: Assemble the Base

In a large salad bowl, layer the spinach leaves as the base. Scatter the strawberries and blueberries evenly over the greens.

Step 3: Add the Flavor Boosts

Top with red onion slices, sprinkle on the crumbled feta, and add the candied pecans for that crunchy texture.

Step 4: Drizzle the Dressing

Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the top. You can use store-bought or homemade for an extra-fresh touch.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Using salad tongs, gently toss everything together just before serving so the flavors combine evenly.

Serving and Storing Berry Spinach Salad

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, immediately after tossing with dressing. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or a chilled pasta dish.

If you’re preparing ahead, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to avoid sogginess. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day, though the greens may wilt slightly.

To turn this salad into a heartier meal, add a scoop of quinoa, grilled salmon, or avocado slices.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make this salad?

You can prep the ingredients (wash, chop, and portion) up to 1 day ahead. Just wait to add the dressing until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Fresh berries are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but in a pinch, thawed frozen berries can work—just be sure to drain them well.

What protein can I add to make it a full meal?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu make excellent additions without overpowering the fresh flavors.

Can I swap the feta cheese for something else?

Absolutely. Goat cheese or even shaved parmesan can be great alternatives.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes! Simply omit the feta or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative.

What dressing pairs best besides balsamic?

A poppy seed dressing or honey-lime vinaigrette also complements the berries nicely.

Want More Salad Ideas with a Fresh Twist?

If you love this Berry Spinach Salad, you might also enjoy these creative takes:

Fresh Flavorful Classic Greek Salad Recipe for a Mediterranean vibe.
Avocado Boat Dip for creamy and scooped veggie freshness.
Roasted Parmesan Green Beans as a crisp, cheesy side.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a more filling option.
Tzatziki Chicken Veggie Naan Pizza if you’re craving salad-like toppings on flatbread.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad or healthy meals board so you can revisit it any time: Kitchen By Kate Pinterest Recipes

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you swap out the cheese or add a protein? Any other berries in the mix?

I love seeing how you all add your personal spin on these recipes. Got questions? Feel free to drop them below!

Berry Spinach Salad

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Kate Walton
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This fresh and easy Berry Spinach Salad combines vibrant spinach, juicy strawberries, blueberries, feta cheese, and crunchy pecans, topped with a zesty balsamic vinaigrette. It’s a perfect healthy summer salad recipe packed with antioxidants, fiber, and flavor.