Blueberry Spinach Salad Orange Poppy Seed

The Story Behind the Recipe 🍊💚

Every once in a while, I crave something that tastes like sunshine — bright, fresh, and full of life. That’s exactly how this Blueberry Spinach Salad Orange Poppy Seed came to be.

It all started one spring afternoon when I was wandering through my local farmers’ market. The air was full of that happy buzz — kids laughing, flowers blooming, and baskets overflowing with fresh produce. I spotted plump blueberries glistening like little jewels and vibrant bundles of baby spinach calling my name.

Right next to them, there was a stall with sweet, fragrant oranges — the kind that you can smell before you even pick them up. I knew right then what I wanted to make: a salad that would capture all those fresh, happy flavors of the season.

When I tossed everything together later that day — juicy blueberries, crisp spinach, crunchy almonds, creamy feta, and that sweet-tart orange poppy seed dressing — it was love at first bite. The balance of flavors was perfect: bright citrus, earthy greens, and that subtle crunch in every forkful.

Now, it’s one of my go-to salads whenever I want something light yet satisfying. Whether it’s for a sunny brunch, a picnic, or just a quick weekday lunch, this salad never fails to make me smile. 💛

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What Makes This Recipe Special

This salad isn’t just beautiful — it’s full of flavor, texture, and good-for-you ingredients. Here’s what makes it special:

• 🫐 Bursting with Freshness: Blueberries and oranges bring a pop of juicy sweetness.
• 🌿 Nutrient-Packed: Spinach, almonds, and berries are loaded with vitamins and antioxidants.
• 🍊 Homemade Dressing: The orange poppy seed dressing is zesty, light, and made in minutes.
• 🧀 Flavor Harmony: Creamy feta perfectly complements the fruit and greens.
• 💛 Quick & Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes — no cooking required!

It’s the perfect mix of healthy, flavorful, and elegant — proof that simple ingredients can make something extraordinary.

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Ingredients – Fresh, Simple & Full of Flavor

🥗 For the Salad:

• 6 cups baby spinach (washed & dried)
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese)
• ¼ cup sliced almonds or chopped pecans (toasted if desired)
• Optional: ½ avocado, sliced for extra creaminess

🍊 For the Orange Poppy Seed Dressing:

• ¼ cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the orange juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, vinegar, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

(Tip: You can also shake everything in a mason jar — super easy and no mess!)

Step 2: Prep the Salad Ingredients

Wash and dry the spinach leaves thoroughly. Slice the red onion, peel and segment the orange, and crumble the feta.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, add the spinach, blueberries, orange slices, red onion, feta, and almonds.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Just before serving, drizzle the orange poppy seed dressing over the salad. Toss gently so every leaf gets a little shine.

Step 5: Serve Fresh

Transfer to plates or bowls, top with extra blueberries or a few mint leaves for garnish, and enjoy immediately. 🥗✨

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Serving Suggestions – What to Pair It With

This salad is light and refreshing, but it also plays beautifully alongside many dishes!

• 🍗 Grilled Chicken or Salmon: Adds heartiness and extra protein.
• 🥖 Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast: Perfect for soaking up the dressing.
• 🍝 Pasta Dishes: Complements creamy or herby pastas beautifully.
• 🍷 White Wine or Sparkling Water with Citrus: The flavors sing together!
• 🥪 Wraps & Sandwiches: Try it next to turkey or veggie wraps for lunch.

It’s versatile enough for both everyday meals and special occasions.

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Customization & Variations

One of the best parts about this salad? You can switch it up however you like! Here are a few fun ideas:

• 🍓 Berry Mix: Add strawberries or raspberries for extra sweetness.
• 🧀 Change the Cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese, blue cheese, or vegan cheese.
• 🌰 Crunch Factor: Use walnuts, sunflower seeds, or pistachios.
• 🥑 Add Creaminess: Sliced avocado or a spoonful of Greek yogurt dressing.
• 🥬 Greens Galore: Mix spinach with arugula, kale, or spring greens.
• 🍊 Dressing Twist: Try lemon juice instead of orange for a sharper flavor.
• 🐔 Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu turns it into a meal.

It’s endlessly adaptable — just follow your taste buds and the season!

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Storing & Reheating

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can easily prepare parts of it ahead of time:

• Store the Dressing: Keep it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 5 days. Shake well before using.
• Prep the Ingredients: Wash and chop everything, but don’t mix until ready to serve (to keep the spinach crisp).
• Leftovers: If already dressed, store in the fridge up to 1 day. The spinach may wilt, but it still tastes lovely!

(Pro Tip: Keep a few jars of the dressing ready — it goes great on nearly any salad!)

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Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving – Approx.)

• Calories: 260
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 280mg

This salad is a nutrition powerhouse — rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, iron, and healthy fats. It’s light, energizing, and just plain delicious. 🌿

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Reader Q&A – Common Questions

1. Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, but thaw and pat them dry first to avoid extra moisture.

2. What can I use instead of honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar are great vegan options.

3. Can I make the dressing ahead?
Absolutely! It stays fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

4. What kind of oranges work best?
Navel or Cara Cara oranges are sweet and juicy — perfect for this salad.

5. Can I use other greens?
Yes! Arugula, baby kale, or mixed greens work beautifully.

6. How can I make it dairy-free?
Simply skip the feta or use a vegan alternative.

7. Can I add more veggies?
Sure! Cucumber, bell peppers, or avocado blend right in.

8. How do I toast the almonds?
Toast them in a dry pan over low heat for 3–4 minutes until golden and fragrant.

9. What’s the best way to serve it for guests?
Toss it just before serving and add the dressing lightly — presentation matters!

10. Can I turn it into a meal?
Yes — top it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a full, balanced meal.

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Final Thoughts 🍽️

This Blueberry Spinach Salad with Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is everything I love about simple, wholesome food. It’s light yet flavorful, colorful yet comforting — and it tastes like pure sunshine in every bite. ☀️

Each forkful gives you something wonderful — juicy blueberries, sweet orange, creamy feta, and that zesty, tangy dressing tying it all together. It’s the kind of salad that makes you feel refreshed, happy, and nourished.

It’s not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients that remind us how joyful eating healthy can be.

So next time you want something quick, vibrant, and full of flavor — grab your bowl, whisk that dressing, and let this salad bring a little brightness to your table. 💛

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Tried This Recipe? 💕

Did you make my Blueberry Spinach Salad with Orange Poppy Seed Dressing?

📸 I’d love to see your fresh and beautiful creations! Tag @Granny’s Lil Kitchen on Pinterest and share your version — I might feature it!

Did you add strawberries? Maybe a sprinkle of nuts or a different dressing? Whatever your twist, I can’t wait to see your spin on it.

Don’t forget to leave a comment, rate the recipe, and follow me for more feel-good dishes that celebrate flavor, freshness, and family. 💚