![- 5 cups fresh baby spinach, thoroughly washed and dried - 1 cup mixed berries (combination of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries) - 1/2 cup pecans, gently toasted - 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled - 1/4 red onion, finely sliced - 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing I love using fresh baby spinach for its crisp texture and vibrant color. Mixed berries add sweetness and a burst of flavor. Toasted pecans bring a nice crunch and rich taste. Feta cheese gives a creamy touch, while red onion adds a bit of bite. The balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together perfectly. - Honey for sweetness - Salt and pepper If you want to add a hint of sweetness, honey works great. A dash of salt and pepper can enhance the salad's flavor even more. - Number of servings: 4 servings - Portion recommendations: Serve about 1 1/2 cups per person. This salad is perfect for sharing or as a light meal for four. Each serving is filling and packed with nutrients. If you want to make it a main dish, consider adding grilled chicken or quinoa for extra protein. For the full recipe, check out the reference above. Toasting pecans brings out a deep, rich flavor. Use a dry skillet and set it on medium heat. Add the pecans and stir often for about 5-7 minutes. You want them golden brown and fragrant. Watch them closely to prevent burning. If they start to smoke, remove them right away. Start by washing the spinach. Place it in a large bowl and fill it with cold water. Swirl the leaves to remove dirt. Lift the spinach out and let it drain in a colander. Pat it dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner. For the berries, rinse them under cold water. Gently pat them dry too. If you use strawberries, slice them into small pieces. This makes them easier to eat and mix well. Layer your salad for the best look and taste. First, add the spinach to a large bowl. Next, sprinkle the berries over the spinach. Follow this with the toasted pecans. Add the sliced red onion and crumbled feta cheese on top. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette dressing over everything. If you like sweetness, you can add honey here. Finally, toss the salad gently. Use tongs or your hands to mix well, coating all the ingredients. Taste it and add salt and black pepper as needed. Enjoy this fresh and tasty dish! You can find the Full Recipe for more details. To make your Berry Spinach Salad even better, try different dressings. You can use lemon vinaigrette or honey mustard for a sweet twist. Adding protein can make it heartier. Grilled chicken or chickpeas makes a great choice. Feel free to switch out the nuts or cheese. Almonds or walnuts can work well too. Try goat cheese instead of feta for a different taste. You can also mix in seasonal fruits. Apples in fall or peaches in summer add freshness. When serving, consider a large bowl or individual plates. A big bowl is great for family meals. For a fancy touch, use small plates. Garnish each serving with whole berries or extra pecans. This adds color and looks nice. For the full recipe, check out the details in the main article. {{image_4}} You can change this salad based on the season. In summer, use fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. They add sweetness and a burst of color. For winter, try adding citrus fruits like oranges or pomegranate seeds. They give a nice zing. You can also mix in roasted root vegetables, like sweet potatoes, for warmth. If you follow a vegan diet, skip the feta cheese. You can use avocado or chickpeas instead for creaminess and protein. For gluten-free options, ensure your vinaigrette is gluten-free. You can make your dressing with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs. Check labels on any toppings to avoid gluten. Feel free to add more fruits or veggies. Sliced apples or pears work great. They add a nice crunch. You can also include nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra texture. Experiment with different dressings too. Try a honey mustard or a citrus vinaigrette. Each will give a new taste to your salad. Enjoy exploring these variations to keep your meals interesting! For the full recipe, see [Full Recipe]. To store leftover salad, place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents wilting. Use a container that fits the salad snugly. I recommend glass or BPA-free plastic containers. These materials help preserve the taste and texture. The salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. After that, the spinach can become soggy. Watch for signs of spoilage, like brown leaves or a slimy texture. If it smells off, it’s best to toss it. You don’t need to reheat this salad. Instead, freshen up leftovers by adding a splash of balsamic vinaigrette. This revives the flavors. Always store dressings separately to prevent sogginess. This way, you can enjoy a crisp salad later. You can find the full recipe for the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans online. To make this salad, follow these key steps: 1. Toast the pecans: Use a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. 2. Prepare the greens: Add washed baby spinach to a large bowl. 3. Prepare the berries: Rinse mixed berries and slice strawberries if needed. 4. Add ingredients: Sprinkle toasted pecans, red onion, and feta cheese over the spinach. 5. Dress the salad: Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette and optional honey. 6. Toss and season: Mix gently and add salt and pepper to taste. 7. Serve immediately: Enjoy fresh for the best flavor. Yes, you can use frozen berries. Thaw them first to avoid excess moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps keep the salad from getting soggy. Frozen berries might be softer, so handle them gently. They work well, especially in winter. Balsamic vinaigrette is ideal, but you can try other options. Lemon vinaigrette adds a fresh zing. Honey mustard dressing gives a sweet and tangy flavor. A creamy dressing, like ranch, can also work if you prefer a richer taste. Yes, this salad is healthy. Spinach is rich in vitamins A and C. Berries provide antioxidants and fiber. Pecans add healthy fats and protein. Feta cheese offers calcium and flavor. Overall, this dish is balanced and nutritious. You can prep some parts in advance. Wash and dry the spinach a day earlier. Store it in the fridge in a sealed container. You can also toast the pecans ahead of time. Keep them in an airtight container. Combine everything just before serving to maintain freshness. To wrap up, the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans is easy and tasty. You learned the main ingredients, like spinach, berries, and pecans. I shared how to toast nuts and combine everything well. With tips for flavor and storage, you can enjoy this salad at any time. Don't be afraid to make it your own with different fruits and nuts. This dish is not only healthy, but it's also a fun way to enjoy fresh ingredients. Try it, and you may find your new favorite salad!](https://meltedrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/4c10036f-dca9-4e25-9077-5dd8c0bb2410.webp)
Are you ready to whip up a fresh and tasty dish? This Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. With vibrant berries, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta cheese, you’ll enjoy a delightful salad that’s both healthy and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a meal alone, this salad is colorful, easy to make, and packed with nutrients. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans
– 5 cups fresh baby spinach, thoroughly washed and dried
– 1 cup mixed berries (combination of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
– 1/2 cup pecans, gently toasted
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 red onion, finely sliced
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing
I love using fresh baby spinach for its crisp texture and vibrant color. Mixed berries add sweetness and a burst of flavor. Toasted pecans bring a nice crunch and rich taste. Feta cheese gives a creamy touch, while red onion adds a bit of bite. The balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together perfectly.
Optional Ingredients
– Honey for sweetness
– Salt and pepper
If you want to add a hint of sweetness, honey works great. A dash of salt and pepper can enhance the salad’s flavor even more.
Suggested Serving Sizes
– Number of servings: 4 servings
– Portion recommendations: Serve about 1 1/2 cups per person.
This salad is perfect for sharing or as a light meal for four. Each serving is filling and packed with nutrients. If you want to make it a main dish, consider adding grilled chicken or quinoa for extra protein. For the full recipe, check out the reference above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Toasting the Pecans
Toasting pecans brings out a deep, rich flavor. Use a dry skillet and set it on medium heat. Add the pecans and stir often for about 5-7 minutes. You want them golden brown and fragrant. Watch them closely to prevent burning. If they start to smoke, remove them right away.
Preparing the Greens and Berries
Start by washing the spinach. Place it in a large bowl and fill it with cold water. Swirl the leaves to remove dirt. Lift the spinach out and let it drain in a colander. Pat it dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner. For the berries, rinse them under cold water. Gently pat them dry too. If you use strawberries, slice them into small pieces. This makes them easier to eat and mix well.
Combining the Salad Components
Layer your salad for the best look and taste. First, add the spinach to a large bowl. Next, sprinkle the berries over the spinach. Follow this with the toasted pecans. Add the sliced red onion and crumbled feta cheese on top. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette dressing over everything. If you like sweetness, you can add honey here. Finally, toss the salad gently. Use tongs or your hands to mix well, coating all the ingredients. Taste it and add salt and black pepper as needed. Enjoy this fresh and tasty dish! You can find the Full Recipe for more details.
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
To make your Berry Spinach Salad even better, try different dressings. You can use lemon vinaigrette or honey mustard for a sweet twist. Adding protein can make it heartier. Grilled chicken or chickpeas makes a great choice.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to switch out the nuts or cheese. Almonds or walnuts can work well too. Try goat cheese instead of feta for a different taste. You can also mix in seasonal fruits. Apples in fall or peaches in summer add freshness.
Presentation Suggestions
When serving, consider a large bowl or individual plates. A big bowl is great for family meals. For a fancy touch, use small plates. Garnish each serving with whole berries or extra pecans. This adds color and looks nice.
For the full recipe, check out the details in the main article.
Variations
Seasonal Variations
You can change this salad based on the season. In summer, use fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. They add sweetness and a burst of color. For winter, try adding citrus fruits like oranges or pomegranate seeds. They give a nice zing. You can also mix in roasted root vegetables, like sweet potatoes, for warmth.
Dietary Adjustments
If you follow a vegan diet, skip the feta cheese. You can use avocado or chickpeas instead for creaminess and protein. For gluten-free options, ensure your vinaigrette is gluten-free. You can make your dressing with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs. Check labels on any toppings to avoid gluten.
Flavor Combinations
Feel free to add more fruits or veggies. Sliced apples or pears work great. They add a nice crunch. You can also include nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra texture. Experiment with different dressings too. Try a honey mustard or a citrus vinaigrette. Each will give a new taste to your salad. Enjoy exploring these variations to keep your meals interesting!
For the full recipe, see [Full Recipe].
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To store leftover salad, place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents wilting. Use a container that fits the salad snugly. I recommend glass or BPA-free plastic containers. These materials help preserve the taste and texture.
Shelf Life Considerations
The salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. After that, the spinach can become soggy. Watch for signs of spoilage, like brown leaves or a slimy texture. If it smells off, it’s best to toss it.
Reheating Instructions
You don’t need to reheat this salad. Instead, freshen up leftovers by adding a splash of balsamic vinaigrette. This revives the flavors. Always store dressings separately to prevent sogginess. This way, you can enjoy a crisp salad later. You can find the full recipe for the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans online.
FAQs
How to make a Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans?
To make this salad, follow these key steps:
1. Toast the pecans: Use a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.
2. Prepare the greens: Add washed baby spinach to a large bowl.
3. Prepare the berries: Rinse mixed berries and slice strawberries if needed.
4. Add ingredients: Sprinkle toasted pecans, red onion, and feta cheese over the spinach.
5. Dress the salad: Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette and optional honey.
6. Toss and season: Mix gently and add salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately: Enjoy fresh for the best flavor.
Can I use frozen berries?
Yes, you can use frozen berries. Thaw them first to avoid excess moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps keep the salad from getting soggy. Frozen berries might be softer, so handle them gently. They work well, especially in winter.
What dressing pairs best with this salad?
Balsamic vinaigrette is ideal, but you can try other options. Lemon vinaigrette adds a fresh zing. Honey mustard dressing gives a sweet and tangy flavor. A creamy dressing, like ranch, can also work if you prefer a richer taste.
Is this salad healthy?
Yes, this salad is healthy. Spinach is rich in vitamins A and C. Berries provide antioxidants and fiber. Pecans add healthy fats and protein. Feta cheese offers calcium and flavor. Overall, this dish is balanced and nutritious.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
You can prep some parts in advance. Wash and dry the spinach a day earlier. Store it in the fridge in a sealed container. You can also toast the pecans ahead of time. Keep them in an airtight container. Combine everything just before serving to maintain freshness.
To wrap up, the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans is easy and tasty. You learned the main ingredients, like spinach, berries, and pecans. I shared how to toast nuts and combine everything well. With tips for flavor and storage, you can enjoy this salad at any time. Don’t be afraid to make it your own with different fruits and nuts. This dish is not only healthy, but it’s also a fun way to enjoy fresh ingredients. Try it, and you may find your new favorite salad!
![- 5 cups fresh baby spinach, thoroughly washed and dried - 1 cup mixed berries (combination of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries) - 1/2 cup pecans, gently toasted - 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled - 1/4 red onion, finely sliced - 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing I love using fresh baby spinach for its crisp texture and vibrant color. Mixed berries add sweetness and a burst of flavor. Toasted pecans bring a nice crunch and rich taste. Feta cheese gives a creamy touch, while red onion adds a bit of bite. The balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together perfectly. - Honey for sweetness - Salt and pepper If you want to add a hint of sweetness, honey works great. A dash of salt and pepper can enhance the salad's flavor even more. - Number of servings: 4 servings - Portion recommendations: Serve about 1 1/2 cups per person. This salad is perfect for sharing or as a light meal for four. Each serving is filling and packed with nutrients. If you want to make it a main dish, consider adding grilled chicken or quinoa for extra protein. For the full recipe, check out the reference above. Toasting pecans brings out a deep, rich flavor. Use a dry skillet and set it on medium heat. Add the pecans and stir often for about 5-7 minutes. You want them golden brown and fragrant. Watch them closely to prevent burning. If they start to smoke, remove them right away. Start by washing the spinach. Place it in a large bowl and fill it with cold water. Swirl the leaves to remove dirt. Lift the spinach out and let it drain in a colander. Pat it dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner. For the berries, rinse them under cold water. Gently pat them dry too. If you use strawberries, slice them into small pieces. This makes them easier to eat and mix well. Layer your salad for the best look and taste. First, add the spinach to a large bowl. Next, sprinkle the berries over the spinach. Follow this with the toasted pecans. Add the sliced red onion and crumbled feta cheese on top. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette dressing over everything. If you like sweetness, you can add honey here. Finally, toss the salad gently. Use tongs or your hands to mix well, coating all the ingredients. Taste it and add salt and black pepper as needed. Enjoy this fresh and tasty dish! You can find the Full Recipe for more details. To make your Berry Spinach Salad even better, try different dressings. You can use lemon vinaigrette or honey mustard for a sweet twist. Adding protein can make it heartier. Grilled chicken or chickpeas makes a great choice. Feel free to switch out the nuts or cheese. Almonds or walnuts can work well too. Try goat cheese instead of feta for a different taste. You can also mix in seasonal fruits. Apples in fall or peaches in summer add freshness. When serving, consider a large bowl or individual plates. A big bowl is great for family meals. For a fancy touch, use small plates. Garnish each serving with whole berries or extra pecans. This adds color and looks nice. For the full recipe, check out the details in the main article. {{image_4}} You can change this salad based on the season. In summer, use fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. They add sweetness and a burst of color. For winter, try adding citrus fruits like oranges or pomegranate seeds. They give a nice zing. You can also mix in roasted root vegetables, like sweet potatoes, for warmth. If you follow a vegan diet, skip the feta cheese. You can use avocado or chickpeas instead for creaminess and protein. For gluten-free options, ensure your vinaigrette is gluten-free. You can make your dressing with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs. Check labels on any toppings to avoid gluten. Feel free to add more fruits or veggies. Sliced apples or pears work great. They add a nice crunch. You can also include nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra texture. Experiment with different dressings too. Try a honey mustard or a citrus vinaigrette. Each will give a new taste to your salad. Enjoy exploring these variations to keep your meals interesting! For the full recipe, see [Full Recipe]. To store leftover salad, place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents wilting. Use a container that fits the salad snugly. I recommend glass or BPA-free plastic containers. These materials help preserve the taste and texture. The salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. After that, the spinach can become soggy. Watch for signs of spoilage, like brown leaves or a slimy texture. If it smells off, it’s best to toss it. You don’t need to reheat this salad. Instead, freshen up leftovers by adding a splash of balsamic vinaigrette. This revives the flavors. Always store dressings separately to prevent sogginess. This way, you can enjoy a crisp salad later. You can find the full recipe for the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans online. To make this salad, follow these key steps: 1. Toast the pecans: Use a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. 2. Prepare the greens: Add washed baby spinach to a large bowl. 3. Prepare the berries: Rinse mixed berries and slice strawberries if needed. 4. Add ingredients: Sprinkle toasted pecans, red onion, and feta cheese over the spinach. 5. Dress the salad: Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette and optional honey. 6. Toss and season: Mix gently and add salt and pepper to taste. 7. Serve immediately: Enjoy fresh for the best flavor. Yes, you can use frozen berries. Thaw them first to avoid excess moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps keep the salad from getting soggy. Frozen berries might be softer, so handle them gently. They work well, especially in winter. Balsamic vinaigrette is ideal, but you can try other options. Lemon vinaigrette adds a fresh zing. Honey mustard dressing gives a sweet and tangy flavor. A creamy dressing, like ranch, can also work if you prefer a richer taste. Yes, this salad is healthy. Spinach is rich in vitamins A and C. Berries provide antioxidants and fiber. Pecans add healthy fats and protein. Feta cheese offers calcium and flavor. Overall, this dish is balanced and nutritious. You can prep some parts in advance. Wash and dry the spinach a day earlier. Store it in the fridge in a sealed container. You can also toast the pecans ahead of time. Keep them in an airtight container. Combine everything just before serving to maintain freshness. To wrap up, the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans is easy and tasty. You learned the main ingredients, like spinach, berries, and pecans. I shared how to toast nuts and combine everything well. With tips for flavor and storage, you can enjoy this salad at any time. Don't be afraid to make it your own with different fruits and nuts. This dish is not only healthy, but it's also a fun way to enjoy fresh ingredients. Try it, and you may find your new favorite salad!](https://meltedrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/4c10036f-dca9-4e25-9077-5dd8c0bb2410-300x300.webp)