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–+ servings

Gluten-Free Savory Blackberry Spinach Salad

Claire Bennett
Sometimes salads can feel a bit boring, but not this one! With the tart pop of blackberries and savory feta, you'll forget you're eating something so simple. Trust me, your dinner plate will thank you.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Quick & Easy Weeknight Dinners
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups fresh spinach leaves washed and dried
  • 1 cup blackberries fresh or thawed frozen
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta certified GF if packaged
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion soak in cold water if too pungent
  • 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans toasted, optional
  • 2 tbsp honey adjust to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 pinch pepper

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh spinach leaves and sliced red onion. Gently toss to mix them evenly. The spinach should be well-coated with the redness of the onion, giving it some color.
  • Add the blackberries to the bowl, being careful not to squish them. They should sit atop the spinach like little jewels; who wouldn’t love that?
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. This dressing is your flavor bomb. Adjust the sweetness if you're feeling crazy!
  • Drizzle the dressing over the salad right before serving and gently toss until everything is well-combined. Do not drown your greens; taste as you go!
  • Sprinkle with feta and nuts (if using). Give it one last gentle toss and serve immediately for best texture. Sit back, and enjoy your salad masterpiece!

Notes

Substitutions & Variations:
  • Dairy-Free: Omit the feta or replace it with dairy-free feta, or use avocado for creaminess.
  • Lower Sugar: Replace honey with a sugar-free syrup or a sprinkle of balsamic vinegar instead.
  • Add Nuts: Toss in ½ cup of toasted walnuts or pecans for some crunch and healthy fats.
Claire's Gluten-Free Baking Notes:
For a perfect salad, use fresh, crispy spinach. Be mindful with your honey if you're making this dress-up; too much can turn it into dessert. Make sure your honey is labeled gluten-free, though it generally is! This salad stays fresh in the fridge for about a day; just keep the dressing separate until serving. And please, use certified gluten-free products for any packaged goods—no one wants a gluten surprise!
Tips:
Make sure the blackberries are fresh; mushy ones can ruin the salad vibe. Keep your dressing on the side until you're ready to eat for optimal crunch. When slicing your onion, a good trick is to soak it in cold water to tone down the bite.
Keyword blackberries, easy dinner, Gluten-Free, salad, spinach
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