Berry Orange Spinach Salad with Citrus Balsamic Vinaigrette 🍊🍓

This vibrant and refreshing salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect addition to any gathering or a light lunch. With the sweetness of berries, the zest of oranges, and the earthy goodness of spinach, it’s a nutritious powerhouse dressed in a tangy citrus balsamic vinaigrette that will elevate your meal. Add some crunchy nuts for an extra layer of satisfaction! 🥗

Ingredients

For the salad

• 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
• 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese)
• 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

For the citrus balsamic vinaigrette

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Zest of 1 orange
• 2 tablespoons orange juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (adjust for sweetness)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, mixed berries, orange segments, crumbled feta cheese, chopped nuts, and sliced red onion.

🥗 Feel free to toss in other fruits or nuts you enjoy, such as sliced apples or almonds, to make this salad your own!

• In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, orange zest, orange juice, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt and pepper until emulsified.

🧪 If using a jar, you can simply put the lid on and shake vigorously to combine!

• Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

🍊 Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors at their best. The vinaigrette can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Variations

• Nut-free: Omit the nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy alternative. 🌻
• Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal option.
• Herbed twist: Add fresh herbs like basil or mint to the salad for an aromatic touch.
• Different greens: Substitute spinach with mixed greens, kale, or arugula for a different flavor profile and nutritional boost.
• Vegan: Skip the cheese or replace it with a plant-based feta alternative, and use maple syrup for the sweetener.

Relish this delicious salad that's as visually stunning as it is nutritious! Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just a healthy snack at home. Enjoy! 🍽✨