Name: Fruit & Nut Spinach Salad Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ⅓ cup pecans; ⅓ cup almonds; 10 oz spinach; 1 cup strawberries; ½ cup blueberries; ½ cup blackberries; ⅔ cup raspberries; 1 cup feta cheese; ½ cup red onion; Marzetti® Simply Dressed® Balsamic Salad Dressing

This delightful fruit and nut spinach salad is a refreshing burst of flavors and textures. Combining the sweetness of fresh berries with the crunch of toasted nuts and the creaminess of feta cheese, this salad is perfect for a light lunch or a colorful side dish at dinner.

Photos of Fruit & Nut Spinach Salad Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this recipe are common, a few might not be staples in every household. Feta cheese adds a tangy and creamy element, which might not be in your regular cheese drawer. Also, the variety of fresh berries – strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries – might require a trip to the supermarket if you don't usually stock up on these.

Ingredients For Fruit & Nut Spinach Salad

Pecans: Toasted to bring out their nutty flavor and add a crunchy texture to the salad.

Almonds: Another toasted nut option, providing a slightly different crunch and taste.

Spinach: The base of the salad, offering a fresh and green backdrop for the other ingredients.

Strawberries: Adds a sweet and juicy component, contrasting nicely with the other berries and nuts.

Blueberries: These small berries burst with sweetness and add a pop of color.

Blackberries: Slightly tart, they add depth and variety to the fruit mix.

Raspberries: Delicate and sweet, they bring a lovely softness to the salad.

Feta cheese: Crumbled over the top, it adds a creamy and tangy element that complements the fruit and nuts.

Red onion: Thinly sliced, it provides a sharp contrast and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Balsamic salad dressing: A simple yet flavorful dressing to tie all the ingredients together.

One reader, Ewart Corrales says:

This fruit & nut spinach salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures! The fresh berries and toasted nuts pair perfectly with the creamy feta and tangy balsamic dressing. It's a refreshing and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. Highly recommend!

Ewart Corrales

Techniques Required for Making a Fruit & Nut Spinach Salad

How to toast nuts: Toast the pecans and almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until they are fragrant and lightly browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Allow them to cool completely before adding to the salad.

How to combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the toasted nuts, spinach, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, feta cheese, and red onion together until evenly distributed.

How to toss salad: Drizzle the balsamic salad dressing over the combined ingredients and gently toss to ensure everything is well-coated.

How to serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual plates and serve immediately.

How To Make Fruit & Nut Spinach Salad

Make your spinach salad extra flavor with fruity flavors and crunchy nuts by whipping up our easy recipe! Grab a bite of this for lunch in just 5 minutes.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

⅓cuppecans
⅓cupalmonds
10ozspinach
1cupstrawberries,sliced
½cupblueberries
½cupblackberries
⅔cupraspberries
1cupfeta cheese,or goat cheese
½cupred onion,thinly sliced, optional
Marzetti® Simply Dressed® Balsamic Salad Dressing,1 bottle

Instructions

Toast the pecans and almonds until fragrant and lightly browned. Cool completely.
Combine the nuts, spinach, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, feta, and red onion in a large bowl.
Toss with the balsamic salad dressing.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 290.41kcal
Fat: 20.56g
Saturated Fat: 6.64g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.92g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.81g
Carbohydrates: 19.46g
Fiber: 7.67g
Sugar: 9.01g
Protein: 11.74g
Cholesterol: 33.38mg
Sodium: 401.73mg
Calcium: 315.01mg
Potassium: 701.60mg
Iron: 3.32mg
Vitamin A: 382.85µg
Vitamin C: 54.78mg

Technique Tip for Crafting the Perfect Fruit & Nut Spinach Salad

Toasting pecans and almonds enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the salad. Make sure to spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning. Cool completely before adding to the salad to maintain their crisp texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Salad Recipe

Pre-toast the nuts: Toast the pecans and almonds in bulk ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.

Pre-wash the berries: Wash and dry the strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries in advance to save time during assembly.

Use pre-crumbled feta: Buy pre-crumbled feta cheese to skip the step of crumbling it yourself.

Pre-slice the onion: Slice the red onion ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

Ready-to-use dressing: Opt for marzetti® simply dressed® balsamic salad dressing to avoid making your own dressing.

Substitute Ingredients For Fruit & Nut Spinach Salad Recipe

pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts have a similar texture and nutty flavor, making them a great alternative to pecans.
almonds - Substitute with cashews: Cashews offer a creamy texture and mild flavor that complements the salad well.
spinach - Substitute with arugula: Arugula provides a peppery taste and similar leafy texture, adding a different but delightful flavor profile.
strawberries - Substitute with mandarin oranges: Mandarin oranges add a sweet and tangy flavor, providing a refreshing contrast to the greens.
blueberries - Substitute with grapes: Grapes offer a similar burst of sweetness and juiciness, making them a suitable replacement.
blackberries - Substitute with pomegranate seeds: Pomegranate seeds add a tart and juicy element, along with a pop of color.
raspberries - Substitute with cherries: Cherries provide a sweet and slightly tart flavor, similar to raspberries.
feta cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a creamy texture and tangy flavor that closely matches feta.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and slightly sweeter flavor compared to red onions.
marzetti® simply dressed® balsamic salad dressing - Substitute with homemade balsamic vinaigrette: A homemade balsamic vinaigrette can be easily made with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and honey, providing a fresh and customizable dressing option.

Best Way to Present a Fruit & Nut Spinach Salad

Use a large, white plate: The simplicity of a white plate will make the vibrant colors of the spinach, berries, and feta cheese pop, creating a visually stunning presentation.
Arrange the spinach as a base: Lay the spinach leaves evenly across the plate, forming a lush green bed that will serve as the foundation for the other ingredients.
Artfully place the berries: Scatter the strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries in a balanced yet random pattern over the spinach. This will create a natural, organic look.
Add the nuts strategically: Sprinkle the toasted pecans and almonds over the salad, ensuring they are evenly distributed to provide a crunchy texture in every bite.
Crumble the feta cheese: Gently crumble the feta cheese over the top, allowing it to fall naturally among the berries and spinach. The white cheese will contrast beautifully with the colorful fruits and greens.
Thinly slice the red onion: Add thin slices of red onion sparingly, arranging them in a way that they don’t overpower the other ingredients but add a subtle hint of color and flavor.
Drizzle the dressing artistically: Use a small spoon or a squeeze bottle to drizzle the marzetti® simply dressed® balsamic salad dressing in a zigzag pattern over the salad. This will ensure an even distribution of flavor without drowning the ingredients.
Garnish with microgreens: For an extra touch of elegance, add a few sprigs of microgreens on top. This will elevate the dish and add a final layer of sophistication.
Serve immediately: Present the salad promptly to maintain the freshness and crispness of the spinach and berries.

Essential Tools for Making a Spinach Salad

Skillet: for toasting the pecans and almonds until they are fragrant and lightly browned
Spatula: to stir the nuts while toasting to ensure even browning
Large mixing bowl: to combine the nuts, spinach, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, feta, and red onion
Salad tongs: for tossing the salad with the balsamic dressing
Cutting board: to slice the strawberries and red onion
Chef's knife: for chopping the strawberries and red onion
Measuring cups: to measure out the nuts, berries, feta cheese, and dressing
Serving bowl: to present the salad once it is prepared

How To Store and Freeze Leftover Spinach Salad

To store the fruit & nut spinach salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that the spinach will start to wilt and the nuts may lose their crunch over time.
If you want to prepare the salad ahead of time, store the nuts, spinach, berries, feta, and red onion separately in the refrigerator. Combine them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
The balsamic dressing should be stored separately in a sealed container in the refrigerator and added to the salad right before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting.
Unfortunately, this salad does not freeze well due to the delicate nature of the spinach and berries. The spinach will become soggy and the berries will lose their texture and become mushy when thawed.
If you have any leftover nuts, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Random Fact About Fruit & Nut Spinach Salad

A random fact about this recipe is that spinach is rich in iron and vitamins, making this salad not only delicious but also highly nutritious.

Is Making a Spinach Salad Economical for Home Cooking?

The fruit & nut spinach salad recipe is moderately cost-effective. The combination of spinach, berries, nuts, and feta cheese offers a nutritious and flavorful meal. However, the cost of fresh berries and feta cheese can add up. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $20-$25. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Is This Spinach Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

This fruit and nut spinach salad recipe is a nutritious and delicious choice. The spinach provides a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. The berries are packed with antioxidants and fiber, while the nuts offer healthy fats and protein. Feta cheese adds a tangy flavor and a boost of calcium. The balsamic dressing ties all the flavors together nicely.

However, there are a few ways to make this salad even healthier:

Use a light or fat-free version of the balsamic dressing to reduce the calorie and fat content
Swap out the feta cheese for a lower-fat option like goat cheese or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast
Add some grilled chicken or tofu to increase the protein content and make it a more filling meal
Throw in some additional veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or shredded carrots for extra nutrients and crunch

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Spinach Salad

This fruit and nut spinach salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The toasted pecans and almonds add a satisfying crunch, while the medley of berries provides a burst of sweetness and tartness. The creamy feta cheese complements the fresh spinach and the sharpness of the red onion. Tossing everything with a balsamic dressing ties the ingredients together beautifully. It's a refreshing and nutritious option, perfect for a light lunch or a vibrant side dish.

Enhance Your Fruit & Nut Spinach Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine a velvety soup that dances on your palate with hints of nutmeg and cinnamon. This Roasted Butternut Squash Soup is the perfect warm-up act for your Fruit & Nut Spinach Salad, offering a cozy contrast to the fresh, vibrant flavors of the berries and spinach.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Add a touch of protein with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. The citrus zest and herbs will complement the berries and feta cheese in your salad, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. This dish will elevate your meal to a gourmet experience.

Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: For a side that’s both elegant and easy, consider Garlic Parmesan Asparagus. The crisp asparagus spears, roasted to perfection with garlic and parmesan, will add a delightful crunch and a savory note to your Fruit & Nut Spinach Salad.

Quinoa Pilaf with Cranberries and Almonds: Elevate your meal with a Quinoa Pilaf that features cranberries and almonds. This side dish not only complements the nuts in your salad but also adds a delightful texture and a burst of flavor, making your dining experience truly memorable.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory Honey Glazed Carrots are the perfect accompaniment to your Fruit & Nut Spinach Salad. The caramelized honey glaze enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing.

Alternative Recipes Similar to This Spinach Salad

Berry Quinoa Salad: Combine the nutty flavors of quinoa with a medley of fresh berries and a hint of mint. Drizzle with a light lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing and nutritious meal.

Citrus Avocado Spinach Salad: Mix spinach, creamy avocado, and juicy citrus segments. Top with toasted walnuts and a tangy honey-lime dressing for a burst of flavor.

Grilled Chicken & Strawberry Salad: Pair succulent grilled chicken with sweet strawberries and crunchy pecans. Toss with mixed greens and a balsamic glaze for a delightful contrast of textures.

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: Blend chickpeas with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions. Add crumbled feta cheese and a zesty lemon-oregano dressing for a taste of the Mediterranean.

Apple Walnut Spinach Salad: Combine crisp apples with fresh spinach and toasted walnuts. Add a sprinkle of blue cheese and a drizzle of apple cider vinaigrette for a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Why trust this Fruit & Nut Spinach Salad Recipe:

This fruit & nut spinach salad recipe is a delightful blend of fresh berries, crunchy nuts, and creamy feta. The toasted pecans and almonds add a rich, nutty flavor, while the balsamic dressing ties everything together with a tangy finish. Using Marzetti® Simply Dressed® Balsamic Salad Dressing ensures a high-quality, delicious result. Perfect for a nutritious meal or a refreshing side dish, this salad is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this Fruit & Nut Spinach Salad recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Join the discussion and let us know if you have any tips or variations to enhance this delightful salad!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Absolutely! You can substitute feta with goat cheese, blue cheese, or even a mild cheddar if you prefer.

How long can I store the salad in the fridge?

It's best to eat the salad fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to avoid soggy spinach.

Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Sure thing! Feel free to add other fruits like apples, pears, or even dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture.

Do I have to toast the nuts?

Toasting the nuts isn't mandatory, but it does enhance their flavor and adds a nice crunch to the salad. If you're short on time, you can skip this step.

What can I use if I don't have marzetti® simply dressed® balsamic salad dressing?

You can use any balsamic vinaigrette you have on hand or even make your own by mixing balsamic vinegar, olive oil, a bit of honey, and some Dijon mustard.