Name: Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh baby spinach; 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); 1/2 cup toasted pecans; 1/4 cup raspberry vinaigrette; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

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The sunlight streaming through the kitchen window warms my face as I prepare a delightful Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette. The vibrant greens of fresh spinach contrast beautifully with the luscious red of ripe berries and the crunch of toasted pecans. Each bite promises a burst of flavor that dances on the palate like a salsa party in your mouth! Trust me, you’ll want to make this salad for every occasion—from brunch with friends to romantic dinners under twinkling fairy lights.

As I toss these ingredients together, memories flood my mind of summer picnics in the park, where laughter mingles with the sweet scent of nature. This salad isn’t just food; it’s an experience. Picture it: a warm day, sun-kissed skin, and the perfect balance of sweet and tangy dressing drizzled over a bed of greens. Just thinking about it makes my taste buds sing!

Why You'll Love This Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette

This incredible Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette:

Fresh Baby Spinach: Opt for young leaves for their tender texture and mild flavor; they’re the star of this salad.
Mixed Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add vibrant color and sweetness—go wild and mix them up!
Toasted Pecans: These nuts provide a satisfying crunch; toast them lightly to enhance their nutty flavor.
Raspberry Vinaigrette: A store-bought version is fine, but homemade vinaigrette takes it to another level—sweet and tangy perfection!
Feta Cheese (optional): Crumbled feta adds a creamy texture and salty zing that pairs wonderfully with the fruity elements.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette:

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by assembling all your ingredients on the counter. It’s like a mini cooking party—everyone needs to be invited!

Step 2: Prepare the Greens

Wash your fresh baby spinach thoroughly under cool water to remove any dirt or grit. Pat dry using a salad spinner or paper towels—no one wants a soggy salad!

Step 3: Toast Those Pecans

In a small pan over medium heat, toast your pecans for about 5 minutes or until fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning—it’s like giving them a little spa treatment!

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

In a large bowl, combine your spinach leaves, mixed berries (feel free to be generous), and toasted pecans. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some feta cheese on top.

Step 5: Dress It Up

Drizzle raspberry vinaigrette over your assembled salad just before serving. Toss gently to ensure every leaf is coated in deliciousness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Transfer your beautiful salad onto plates or serve directly from the bowl—garnish with additional berries if desired for that extra wow factor!

Now sit back and enjoy this flavorful explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds! Whether you’re hosting brunch or simply treating yourself on a Tuesday night (because why not?), this Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette is sure to impress!

You Must Know About Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette

This showstopping Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by washing and drying your spinach thoroughly to avoid a soggy salad. Next, toast the pecans in a dry skillet until fragrant. While they cool, whisk together the raspberry vinaigrette, then toss everything together for a fresh burst of flavor.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out the berries for seasonal fruits like sliced peaches or mandarin oranges. Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy contrast, or spice things up with a sprinkle of cayenne pepper in your vinaigrette for unexpected heat.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, keep the salad components separate in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to two days but avoid dressing until serving to maintain freshness. No reheating needed; enjoy cold!

Chef's Helpful Tips for Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette

This professional-quality Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes I make this salad when friends come over and their eyes light up at how vibrant it looks. One friend even declared it “the best salad ever” after one bite—talk about pressure to recreate perfection!

FAQs

What is Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette?

Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that combines fresh spinach leaves, juicy berries, crunchy pecans, and a tangy raspberry vinaigrette. This salad offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it not only nutritious but also visually appealing. The sweet berries contrast beautifully with the earthy spinach, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch. Drizzled with homemade or store-bought raspberry vinaigrette, this salad becomes an excellent choice for lunch or as a side dish at dinner.

How can I customize my Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette?

Customizing your Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette is easy and fun. You can add different types of berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to enhance the flavor profile. Incorporating other ingredients such as feta cheese or goat cheese can provide creaminess that complements the salad well. For added nutrition, consider including sliced avocado or grilled chicken. Just remember to adjust the amount of dressing based on your taste preferences so that all ingredients shine through beautifully.

Is Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette healthy?

Yes, Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette is a healthy option packed with nutrients. Spinach is rich in vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants. The berries provide additional vitamins and fiber while adding natural sweetness. Pecans contribute healthy fats and protein to keep you feeling full longer. When combined with a light raspberry vinaigrette, this salad becomes a nutritious meal choice suitable for various diets. Enjoy it guilt-free as part of your daily meals!

What occasions are perfect for serving Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette?

Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette is versatile enough for many occasions. It makes an excellent addition to summer barbecues or picnics due to its refreshing flavors. Serve it at holiday gatherings as a vibrant side dish that complements rich main courses. Additionally, it’s perfect for brunch events when paired with quiche or breakfast casseroles. This salad’s colorful presentation also makes it suitable for special celebrations like weddings or anniversaries where you want to impress guests.

Conclusion

In summary, the Spinach Salad with Berries, Pecans & Raspberry Vinaigrette stands out as a deliciously fresh option that provides numerous health benefits and customization possibilities. With its mix of vibrant ingredients and textures, this salad can elevate any meal occasion—be it casual or formal. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a side dish at dinner, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen!