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If you’re searching for a vibrant and refreshing salad that feels like a celebration in every bite, the Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe is your new go-to. This salad combines crisp baby spinach with juicy strawberries and blueberries, all brought together by a luscious honey lemon dressing that’s tangy and sweet. It’s a delightful balance of flavors and textures that’s perfect for brightening up any meal or impressing guests with minimal effort. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to making this Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe truly shine. Each item adds a unique layer of flavor, texture, or color that makes the dish as beautiful as it is delicious.
- ½ cup milk: This is essential for creating the creamy base of the dressing when combined with lemon juice.
- Juice of ½ a lemon: Adds a fresh, bright acidity that lifts the dressing and balances the sweetness of the honey.
- ½ cup mayonnaise or light mayonnaise: Provides creaminess to the dressing without overpowering the fresh flavors.
- 1½ tablespoons Onion Onion™ Seasoning: A flavorful twist that brings subtle savory depth to the honey lemon dressing.
- 1 tablespoon honey: This natural sweetener rounds out the dressing with a pleasant floral note.
- 1 (10 ounce) package fresh baby spinach leaves: The vibrant green base, packed with nutrients, and a mild, tender texture perfect for salads.
- 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries: These add juicy sweetness and a splash of color that makes the salad pop.
- 1 cup fresh blueberries: Offering small bursts of tartness and a gorgeous deep blue color contrast.
- ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted: Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor to complement the fruits and greens.
- ½ cup crumbled goat cheese (optional): For those who love a tangy, creamy element that takes this salad to the next level.
- Fresh cracked black pepper (optional): Just a pinch to add a hint of warmth and balance to each bite.
How to Make Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Honey Lemon Dressing
Start by combining the milk and lemon juice in a small bowl and allow it to sit for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly—this little trick gives your dressing a smooth, creamy texture. Then whisk in the mayonnaise, Onion Onion™ Seasoning, and honey until everything is beautifully blended. Give a quick taste and season with salt and pepper if desired, adjusting to your personal preference.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
Grab a large salad bowl and toss together the fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and toasted almonds. These fresh ingredients bring a gorgeous range of textures and colors, making the salad as visually appealing as it is flavorful.
Step 3: Toss and Add Finishing Touches
Drizzle your freshly made honey lemon dressing over the salad, and gently toss everything to coat the leaves and fruit evenly. If you’re using goat cheese, sprinkle it over the top along with freshly cracked black pepper for an extra burst of flavor. This step transforms your salad into a delightful medley of tastes and textures.
How to Serve Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
This salad shines when garnished thoughtfully. Consider adding a few extra toasted almonds or a handful of fresh mint leaves for a cooling herbal note. A light drizzle of honey over the top right before serving can amplify the sweet and tangy balance.
Side Dishes
The Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or fish for a light lunch or dinner. It’s equally delightful alongside a crusty baguette or a warm quinoa pilaf to round out the meal with wholesome, satisfying elements.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, layer the salad ingredients in clear glass jars for picnic-ready servings or arrange the salad artfully on a large platter for a family-style meal. Adding edible flowers on top can elevate the presentation for special occasions or gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover salad and dressing in separate airtight containers and refrigerate. The spinach and fruit are freshest when tossed just before serving, so keep them apart from the dressing to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
This Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended as the delicate greens and fruit lose their texture when thawed.
Reheating
As a fresh, cold salad, reheating isn’t necessary. Simply toss the salad with the dressing before serving to revive the flavors and textures perfectly.
FAQs
Can I substitute the baby spinach for another green?
Absolutely! You can use kale, arugula, or mixed spring greens if you prefer, but keep in mind that baby spinach’s mild flavor and tender texture perfectly complement the sweet fruits and dressing.
Is the goat cheese essential to the salad?
Not at all. The goat cheese adds creaminess and tanginess that many love, but the salad is delicious on its own without it or with a cheese of your choice.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the honey lemon dressing can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a quick whisk before using to remix any separated ingredients.
Are there alternatives to almonds for the crunch factor?
Definitely! Walnuts, pecans, or even pumpkin seeds make wonderful alternatives, each bringing their own unique flavor profile to the salad.
How long will the salad stay fresh after tossing with dressing?
For best texture and taste, serve the salad immediately after tossing it with the dressing. If left for more than a couple of hours, the spinach might wilt and the fruit become soggy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly joyful about a salad that feels both light and satisfying, and this Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe delivers just that. It’s a beautiful mix of sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy that invites you to savor every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how effortlessly it brightens any meal or occasion. Enjoy making it your own and sharing it with people you love!
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Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing Spinach & Fruit Salad combines fresh baby spinach leaves with sweet strawberries, juicy blueberries, and toasted sliced almonds, all tossed in a creamy honey-lemon dressing. Optional goat cheese adds a tangy richness, making this salad a perfect light and flavorful dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dressing
- ½ cup milk
- Juice of ½ a lemon
- ½ cup mayonnaise or light mayonnaise
- 1½ tablespoons Onion Onion™ Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon honey
Salad
- 1 (10 ounce) package fresh baby spinach leaves
- 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted
- ½ cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
- Fresh cracked black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the milk and lemon juice. Let the mixture stand for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly. Whisk in the mayonnaise, Onion Onion Seasoning, and honey until well combined. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, add the fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and toasted sliced almonds. Gently toss the ingredients to mix them evenly.
- Dress and Serve: Drizzle the salad with the desired amount of prepared dressing. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. If desired, sprinkle the salad with crumbled goat cheese and fresh cracked black pepper before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter dressing, use light mayonnaise.
- To toast almonds, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant.
- The goat cheese is optional but adds a lovely creaminess and tang.
- Use fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of honey in the dressing according to your preferred level of sweetness.
- This salad is best served immediately to maintain freshness of the spinach and fruit.
