Blueberry Citrus Spinach Salad Recipe
A vibrant and refreshing Blueberry Citrus Spinach Salad combining fresh spinach, juicy mandarin oranges, sweet blueberries, crunchy pistachios, and creamy goat cheese, all tossed in a light honey-orange vinaigrette dressing. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal or side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 5 ounces spinach or spinach arugula blend
- 8 ounces mandarin orange slices in 100% juice (drained, approx. two 4 oz containers)
- 3 ounces goat cheese (crumbled)
- ¾ cup blueberries
- ¼ cup pistachios (shell removed)
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
Instructions
- Prepare the greens: Rinse the spinach or spinach arugula blend thoroughly under cold water. Pat dry gently with paper towels to remove excess moisture and place into a large salad bowl.
- Add the toppings: Evenly distribute the blueberries, drained mandarin orange slices, shelled pistachios, and crumbled goat cheese over the spinach base in the salad bowl.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, honey, and fresh orange juice until well combined and emulsified to form a light vinaigrette.
- Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss to coat all components evenly with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding salt and pepper if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach or a blend with arugula for added peppery flavor.
- Drain mandarin oranges well to prevent a watery salad.
- For a vegan version, omit goat cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese.
- Toasting pistachios slightly enhances their flavor, but optional.
- This salad is best served immediately to keep greens crisp.
