Spinach & Mulberry Salad
This vibrant Spinach & Mulberry Salad is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a nutrient-dense meal, combining fresh greens, sweet mulberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts with a tangy homemade balsamic vinaigrette.
For 2 servings
**Prepare the vinaigrette:** In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined and emulsified. Set aside.
**Toast walnuts (optional but recommended):** If your walnuts are not pre-toasted, heat a small dry skillet over medium heat. Add the walnuts and toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant. Let them cool slightly.
**Wash and dry ingredients:** Gently wash the baby spinach and fresh mulberries. Ensure the spinach is thoroughly dried using a salad spinner or paper towels to prevent a watery salad.
**Assemble the base:** Place the washed and dried baby spinach in a large mixing bowl.
**Add toppings:** Evenly scatter the fresh mulberries, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted walnuts over the spinach.
**Dress the salad:** Drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the salad ingredients.
**Toss and serve:** Gently toss the salad until all ingredients are lightly coated with the dressing. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Perfectly Dry Greens:** Always ensure your spinach is completely dry after washing. Excess water will dilute the dressing and make the salad soggy. A salad spinner is highly recommended.
- 2**Balance Sweetness:** Mulberries can vary in sweetness. Taste them first and adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup in your vinaigrette accordingly to achieve your desired sweet-tangy balance.
- 3**Ingredient Temperature:** For the best flavor and texture, ensure all your salad ingredients, especially the goat cheese, are at cool room temperature or slightly chilled, not ice-cold.
- 4**Dress Just Before Serving:** To prevent the spinach from wilting, always dress the salad just before you plan to serve it. If prepping ahead, store dressing and salad components separately.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add grilled chicken breast, pan-seared salmon, or roasted chickpeas for a more substantial and protein-rich meal.
Nut & Seed SwapNut & Seed Swap
Substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or pumpkin seeds for different textures and flavor profiles.
Cheese AlternativeCheese Alternative
Try crumbled feta cheese for a saltier, tangier kick, or a mild blue cheese for a bolder flavor profile instead of goat cheese.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Mulberries are packed with antioxidants like anthocyanins, which help combat oxidative stress and support cellular health.
Bone Health Support
Spinach is an excellent source of Vitamin K, crucial for bone health and proper blood clotting, contributing to overall skeletal strength.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Walnuts provide omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health, reducing inflammation, and supporting brain function.
Frequently asked questions
You can prep the individual components (wash spinach, toast walnuts, make dressing) and store them separately. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent wilting.
