This Fresh Summer Berry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans brings summer right to your table, combining the sweetness of berries with the crunch of candied pecans, all tied together with a luscious poppyseed dressing. Perfect for a weekday lunch or entertaining guests, this salad offers a nutritious option that everyone will love.
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This berry spinach salad combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries with the crunch of candied pecans, all tossed in a delicious poppyseed dressing. It's a perfect dish for summer gatherings or a nutritious weekday lunch.
If you like this salad recipe, you may also love our Strawberry Spinach Salad with Avocado and Pecans or our Grilled Peach Salad.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Healthy: Loaded with nutrient-rich spinach and fresh berries.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish or a light main course.
- Deliciously Sweet and Tangy: The poppyseed dressing adds the perfect flavor balance.
Ingredients
- Fresh Spinach: Provides a nutritious base rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Strawberries: Add sweetness and a vibrant color.
- Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants and a juicy burst of flavor.
- Blackberries: Provide a slightly tart taste that complements the other berries.
- Candied Pecans: Add a crunchy, sweet element.
- Poppyseed Dressing: A sweet and tangy dressing that ties all the flavors together.
A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
How to Make Fresh Summer Berry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans and Poppyseed Dressing
Step One: Prepare the Candied Pecans
In a non-stick skillet, combine 1 cup of pecans, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons water, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional).
Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously for 5-7 minutes until pecans are well-coated and the liquid has evaporated. Spread the candied pecans on parchment paper to cool.
Step Two: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
Rinse and dry 5-6 cups of fresh spinach. Hull and slice 1 cup of strawberries. Rinse 1 cup of blueberries and 1 cup of blackberries.
Step Three: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries. Add the cooled candied pecans.
Step Four: Dress the Salad
Drizzle ⅓ cup of poppyseed dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Substitutions & Variations
- Spinach: Substitute with baby kale or mixed greens for a different texture.
- Candied Pecans: Use candied walnuts or almonds for a variation in flavor.
- Poppyseed Dressing: Swap with raspberry vinaigrette.
- Diet: Add grilled chicken for extra protein.
- Flavor: Incorporate feta or goat cheese for a creamy element.
Expert Tips for Success
👩🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and meal prep hacks!
✔️ DO Use fresh, seasonal berries for the best flavor.
✔️ DO Make the candied pecans ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for quick assembly.
Storage
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate and add just before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting.
Recipe FAQs
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time by washing and slicing the berries and spinach. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Prepare the candied pecans and poppyseed dressing in advance as well. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving.
If you don't have candied pecans, use regular pecans, candied walnuts, or even almonds. For a different flavor, try using toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
To make the salad more filling, add a protein source such as grilled chicken. You can also incorporate quinoa, farro, or a grain of your choice to increase the nutritional benefits of the salad.
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📖 Recipe
Fresh Summer Berry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans
Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Parchment paper
- Large Salad bowl
Ingredients
- 5-6 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup strawberries hulled and sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup blackberries
- ⅓ cup poppyseed dressing store-bought or homemade
Candied Pecans
- 1 cup pecans
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon optional
Instructions
Candied Pecans
- Place a sheet of parchment paper on a baking sheet for cooling the pecans.
- In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, combine the sugar, water, and cinnamon (if using). Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
- Add the pecans to the skillet. Cook and stir continuously for 5-7 minutes until the pecans are well-coated and the liquid has evaporated.
- Spread the candied pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Let them cool completely.
Summer Berry Spinach Salad
- In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh spinach, strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries.
- Once the candied pecans are cooled, add them to the salad.
- Drizzle the poppyseed dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately.
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