If you’re looking for a vibrant, refreshing dish that truly celebrates the harmony of sweet and savory flavors, this Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe is absolutely the way to go. It’s a beautiful medley of fresh baby spinach, juicy strawberries, plump blueberries, and crunchy toasted almonds that’s all brought together with a luscious honey lemon dressing. Whether you want a bright side dish or a light lunch, this salad bursts with texture, color, and a hint of tangy sweetness that makes it impossible not to crave more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in marrying creaminess, freshness, and crunch. These simple staples are easy to find yet combine to create a sensational dish packed with layers of flavor and a pleasing balance of textures.
- ½ cup milk: Acts as the creamy base for the dressing and helps mellow the tang of the lemon juice.
- Juice of ½ a lemon: Adds a bright, zesty kick that wakes up the dressing and lifts the entire salad.
- ½ cup mayonnaise or light mayonnaise: Provides richness and body to the dressing without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
- 1½ tablespoons Onion Onion™ Seasoning: Gives a savory, slightly sweet onion depth that echoes beautifully in the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances acidity with natural sweetness for a perfectly harmonious dressing.
- 1 (10 ounce) package fresh baby spinach leaves: The nutrient-rich, tender greens form the fresh, leafy base of the salad.
- 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries: Juicy and vibrant, they add a sweet pop and gorgeous color contrast.
- 1 cup fresh blueberries: Their burst of flavor and deep purple hue keep each bite exciting and nutritious.
- ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted: Adds irresistible crunch and a nutty aroma that elevates the texture.
- ½ cup crumbled goat cheese (optional): Brings a tangy creaminess that complements the fruit and greens beautifully.
- Fresh cracked black pepper (optional): A subtle hint of spice that enhances all the other flavors.
How to Make Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dressing
Start off by combining half a cup of milk with the juice of half a lemon in a small bowl. Let this mixture sit for one to two minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a tangy, creamy base. Whisk in the mayonnaise, Onion Onion™ Seasoning, and honey until everything is well blended. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper if you like, adjusting to your preferred taste. This honey lemon dressing is the magic that pulls the entire salad together, marrying sweet, tart, and savory notes in one delicious coating.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad
Grab a large bowl and toss together the fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and toasted sliced almonds. The combination of crisp greens, juicy fruit, and crunchy nuts makes this salad a sensory delight with every forkful.
Step 3: Toss and Serve
Drizzle your honey lemon dressing generously over the salad, then gently toss to ensure every leaf and berry is lightly kissed with that luscious sauce. For an extra touch of creaminess and a subtle tang, sprinkle crumbled goat cheese on top. Finish with a little cracked black pepper if you like a hint of spice. Now it’s ready to serve and impress your guests or simply enjoy as a fresh, wholesome meal yourself.
How to Serve Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance this salad’s natural beauty with a sprinkle of extra toasted almonds or a few fresh mint leaves for a refreshing finish. A light drizzle of raw honey over the top adds extra shimmer and sweetness just before serving.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a light, healthy meal. It also brightens up any gathering when served alongside hearty sandwiches or savory quiches. The fruit and greens create a vibrant counterpoint to richer dishes on your table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve this salad in individual glass bowls to showcase the layers of strawberries, blueberries, and spinach. Alternatively, try stuffing whole avocados with the salad for a fun, portable option that will wow your guests visually and gastronomically.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to prevent sogginess. The salad is best enjoyed within one to two days for maximum freshness and flavor.
Freezing
Because of the fresh fruit and leafy greens, this salad does not freeze well. Freezing will alter the texture and cause the fruit and spinach to become mushy once thawed.
Reheating
This dish is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended as it will compromise the fresh textures and tastes that make this Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe so delightful.
FAQs
Can I substitute the baby spinach for other greens?
Absolutely! You can use baby kale, arugula, or mixed salad greens if you prefer. Each will bring its own unique flavor and texture, but baby spinach keeps the salad tender and mild.
Is the goat cheese necessary for this recipe?
Goat cheese is optional but highly recommended if you enjoy a creamy, tangy element. If you’re not a fan, feta or shaved parmesan would also work well, or feel free to omit cheese altogether.
Can I use frozen blueberries or strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh berries are best for texture and flavor, but frozen can be used if thawed and patted dry to avoid making the salad watery.
How long does the salad dressing keep in the fridge?
The honey lemon dressing will keep well in an airtight container for up to one week refrigerated. Just give it a good whisk before using as it may separate over time.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Use vegan mayonnaise instead of regular, and either omit the cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative. Make sure your honey is replaced with maple syrup or agave for a fully plant-based version.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe is truly a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavors coming together with effortless grace. It’s the kind of dish I always find myself coming back to when I want something bright, healthy, and utterly satisfying. I encourage you to try it for your next meal or gathering—your taste buds will thank you for this delightful burst of color and taste!
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Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A refreshing and vibrant spinach and fruit salad combining fresh baby spinach, strawberries, blueberries, and toasted almonds, dressed in a creamy, tangy homemade dressing with a hint of sweetness and a touch of Onion Onion™ seasoning, perfect for a light and nutritious meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Dressing
- ½ cup milk
- Juice of ½ a lemon
- ½ cup mayonnaise or light mayonnaise
- 1½ tablespoons Onion Onion™ Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
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, for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the milk and lemon juice. Let it stand for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly, forming a buttermilk-like base.
- Mix Dressing Ingredients: Whisk in the mayonnaise, Onion Onion™ Seasoning, and honey until smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the fresh baby spinach leaves, sliced fresh strawberries, blueberries, and toasted sliced almonds.
- Toss the Salad: Drizzle the desired amount of dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss to coat everything evenly without bruising the fruit or greens.
- Add Optional Toppings: If desired, sprinkle the salad with crumbled goat cheese and finish with freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor and texture.
- Serve: Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, crisp textures and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- Use light mayonnaise to reduce calories if preferred.
- To toast almonds, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently for 3-5 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Fresh goat cheese adds a creamy contrast but can be omitted for a dairy-free or vegan option.
- This salad is best served fresh to preserve the texture of the fruit and greens.
- Onion Onion™ Seasoning can be substituted with a mix of onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of smoked paprika if unavailable.
- Prep Time: 13 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
