Name: Strawberry Blackberry Spinach Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups fresh baby spinach; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 cup fresh blackberries; 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta; 1/3 cup candied pecans or walnuts; 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and black pepper to taste

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Strawberry Blackberry Spinach Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and flavorful dish that I love to toss together whenever I want something light, colorful, and satisfying. The sweet berries, tender baby spinach, and creamy cheese come together with a tangy vinaigrette to create a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tart. It’s simple enough for everyday meals but pretty enough for a gathering or brunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this salad because it’s bursting with texture and flavor. The combination of juicy strawberries and blackberries with crisp spinach makes every bite refreshing, while the creamy cheese and crunchy nuts add richness and contrast. It takes just minutes to prepare, and it’s easy to customize based on what I have in the fridge. Whether I serve it as a side or add grilled chicken to make it a full meal, it always hits the spot. Strawberry Blackberry Spinach Salad

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh baby spinach
Fresh strawberries, sliced
Fresh blackberries
Crumbled goat cheese or feta
Candied pecans or walnuts
Red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

For the vinaigrette:

Olive oil
Balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar
Honey or maple syrup
Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper

Directions

I rinse and dry the spinach and berries, then slice the strawberries and red onion.
In a small bowl or jar, I whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients until smooth and emulsified.
In a large salad bowl, I combine the spinach, strawberries, blackberries, cheese, nuts, and red onion.
I drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving and toss gently to combine.
I serve it immediately while the berries and greens are fresh and crisp.

Servings and timing

This salad serves 4 as a side or 2 as a main, and it takes about 15 minutes to prepare from start to finish.

Variations

Sometimes I add grilled chicken or shrimp to turn it into a protein-packed meal. I’ve also swapped the spinach for arugula or mixed greens when I want a peppery flavor. For a citrusy twist, I’ve used orange segments or a splash of orange juice in the dressing. If I want a nut-free version, I sprinkle in sunflower seeds or leave out the nuts entirely.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best served fresh. If I need to store leftovers, I keep the dressing separate and store everything in the fridge for up to 1 day. Once dressed, the spinach and berries will soften, so I only toss what I plan to eat right away. Strawberry Blackberry Spinach Salad

FAQs

Can I use frozen berries?

I don’t recommend it. Frozen berries release too much liquid and become mushy. Fresh berries give the best texture and flavor for this salad.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, I often mix the vinaigrette up to 5 days in advance and keep it in the fridge. I just give it a good shake or stir before using.

What kind of cheese works best?

Goat cheese and feta are my favorites because they’re creamy and tangy, but I’ve also used blue cheese or shaved Parmesan for a different flavor.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Absolutely. I just leave out the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

What can I serve this salad with?

I love serving it alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or quiche. It also makes a beautiful side for brunch or summer dinners.

Conclusion

Strawberry Blackberry Spinach Salad is one of those easy, elegant dishes that always makes me feel good. It’s loaded with fresh, wholesome ingredients and dressed with a simple vinaigrette that ties everything together. Whether I’m serving it on a warm afternoon or making a quick lunch, this salad brings bright, balanced flavor to the table every time.