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Fresh spinach blueberry salad with nuts and dressing

20-Minute Spinach Blueberry Salad

A quick and vibrant salad featuring fresh spinach, sweet blueberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy walnuts, perfectly dressed with a lemony balsamic vinaigrette.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Modern American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad Ingredients
  • 4 cups baby spinach Choose bright, unblemished leaves and rinse well.
  • 2 cups fresh blueberries Look for plump berries without leaks or wrinkles.
  • 1 cup raw walnuts Toast lightly in a dry skillet for enhanced nuttiness.
  • 1 medium-large avocado, cut into chunks Choose slightly soft but not mushy avocados.
  • 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled Substitute feta or a soft crumbly sheep cheese if desired.
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, torn into small pieces Tear rather than chop to avoid bruising.
  • Salt + pepper to taste Add in two stages for best seasoning control.
Dressing Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup olive oil Use a good extra virgin olive oil.
  • 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar A quality balsamic vinegar for best results.
  • 1/2 a lemon juice only Fresh lemon juice adds brightness.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced For flavor without the bite of raw garlic.
  • 1 tsp honey Moderates acidity in the dressing.
  • Salt + pepper to taste Adjust seasoning as needed.

Method
 

Make the Dressing
  1. Combine all dressing ingredients in a small bowl or jar.
  2. Whisk or shake vigorously until emulsified.
Assemble the Salad
  1. Add all salad ingredients to a large serving plate or bowl.
  2. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  3. Serve immediately for best texture.

Notes

Chop avocado and crumble goat cheese right before serving. Dress the salad just before serving to keep spinach crisp.