Save
This vibrant blueberry spinach salad is the upgrade you need for spring or summer gatherings. Juicy blueberries team up with crisp apples, buttery almonds, and tangy feta, all tossed with a bright and creamy homemade orange poppy seed dressing. Every bite feels both fresh and satisfying, making this salad as welcome at a backyard party as it is on your lunch table.
I whipped this up for a family picnic once and everyone fought over the last spoonful. Now I am always asked to bring it for holidays and it disappears every single time.
Ingredients
- Baby spinach: The tender leaves are mild and make the perfect green base for soaking up that dressing. Choose fresh and bright leaves without wilting or yellowing
- Blueberries: Add juicy pops of sweetness. Go for plump deep-blue berries that feel firm
- Green apple: Crisp tart slices contrast so nicely with the sweet berries and tangy cheese. Granny Smith holds its texture best
- Feta cheese crumbles: Bring bright creamy saltiness. To get real tang choose a block-style feta and crumble it yourself
- Slivered almonds: Give this salad a nutty crunch. Look for untoasted or lightly toasted almonds for best flavor
- Mayonnaise: Makes the dressing creamy and gives body. Use a good quality brand for best taste
- Orange juice: Brings brightness and pairs beautifully with berries. Use fresh squeezed if you can
- White wine vinegar: Lifts and balances with gentle acidity. Pick a vinegar that is clear and not too harsh
- Poppy seeds: Add little crunch and a classic salad look. Make sure your seeds are fresh and not bitter
- Lemon juice: Helps balance the sweetness. Go for freshly squeezed here for the brightest flavor
- Sugar: Just a hint brings harmony between tangy and sweet
- Ground ginger: Gives a soft warmth and subtle spice
- Salt: Enhances every flavor in the bowl. Use a fine sea salt if you have it
- Ground white pepper: Adds gentle background heat
- Garlic powder: Rounds out and deepens the savory notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Assemble the Salad:
- Toss baby spinach with blueberries and green apple in a large bowl. Gently distribute so every bite will have a mixture of fruit and greens
- Add Cheese and Almonds:
- Sprinkle feta crumbles evenly over the top. Scatter slivered almonds for crunchy texture and extra richness
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or measuring cup whisk mayonnaise, orange juice, white wine vinegar, poppy seeds, lemon juice, sugar, ground ginger, salt, white pepper, and garlic powder together. Whisk until everything is completely smooth and poppy seeds are evenly dispersed
- Dress and Toss:
- Drizzle the homemade dressing over the salad right before serving. Gently toss so that each spinach leaf gets a light glossy coat and fruit is dotted with dressing
Save
You Must Know
- Packed with vitamins fiber and antioxidants
- Dressing can be made in advance and will keep well in your fridge
- With chicken or bacon this turns into a protein-packed main dish
There is something about that hint of ginger in the dressing that keeps everyone guessing I remember my sister asking about the secret ingredient at Thanksgiving and she could not believe how much flavor it added
Storage Tips
Store leftovers undressed if possible so spinach stays crisp Place salad in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to two days The dressing keeps well for up to a week in a sealed jar or bottle A quick re-whisk makes it as creamy as the first day
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap feta with goat cheese if you prefer a milder creamy tang Try pecans or walnuts as an alternative nut for a different crunch Berries like strawberries or raspberries also work perfectly if blueberries are out of season
Serving Suggestions
This salad is beautiful on its own for lunch or a light dinner Add chopped grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken to make it a meal Crumbled bacon or sliced avocado also take it to the next level For gatherings arrange fruit and nuts over greens before drizzling the dressing at the table for a showstopper presentation
Save
Cultural and Historical Context
Fruit spinach salads have their roots in American potluck and picnic traditions focusing on fresh produce and quick prep The orange poppy seed dressing is a classic Southern touch adding just enough sweetness and brightness to make even salad skeptics go back for seconds
Recipe FAQs
- → What kind of spinach is best for this salad?
Baby spinach works best, as it has a tender texture and mild flavor that pairs well with fruit and cheese.
- → Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Fresh blueberries are preferred for texture, but thawed and well-drained frozen blueberries can be used if fresh aren't available.
- → What proteins pair well with this salad?
Grilled or rotisserie chicken breast and chopped bacon make great protein additions, creating a more substantial dish.
- → Is it possible to make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the orange poppy seed dressing can be prepared ahead and refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
- → How can I make the salad dairy-free?
Simply omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free feta alternative to make the salad suitable for dairy-free diets.
- → Are there other fruits that work well in this salad?
Sliced strawberries or raspberries are delicious alternatives or additions to blueberries and green apples in this salad.