Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries is a refreshing delight that combines bright flavors and gorgeous colors to brighten your day. Imagine diving into a bowl filled with crisp spinach, vibrant mango, and sweet blueberries, all drizzled with a zesty dressing. Doesn’t that sound tempting? You’re not just making a salad; you’re creating a colorful explosion of flavor that’s perfect for any occasion!
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries
- What is a Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries
- Ingredients
- Make the Salad Dressing
- Prepare the Honey Walnuts
- Assemble the Salad Creations
- Combine Everything in a Serving Bowl
- Serving Suggestions
- Tips for Success
- Variations
- Storage Tips
- Pairing Ideas
- FAQs
- More Easy Salads & Sides Recipes:
- 📖 Recipe Card
This recipe is simple and quick, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights or lovely weekend picnics. Plus, with the addition of crunchy walnuts and creamy feta, this salad offers a variety of textures that keep each bite interesting. You can make it ahead for meal prep or whip it up fresh when hosting friends. Either way, it’s bound to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s make this Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries shine on your table!
Why You’ll Love This Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries
This Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries is more than just a dish; it’s an explosion of flavors that transports you to a summer paradise. The combination of juicy mango, sweet blueberries, and crisp spinach creates a vibrant mosaic on your plate. Tossed in a light and zesty Lemon Honey Mustard Dressing, this salad becomes an irresistible treat perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a refreshing weeknight dinner.
What is a Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries
A Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries is a fresh, nutritious blend of seasonal ingredients that celebrate the essence of summer. This salad features baby spinach as the base, complemented by ripe mango, plump blueberries, crunchy walnuts, and creamy feta cheese. The homemade dressing adds the perfect tang and sweetness, making it a delightful dish that appeals to all tastes.
Ingredients
To create your delicious Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries, you will need the following:
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons honey, divided
- 1 medium lemon, juiced (freshly squeezed or more, to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 oz fresh baby spinach
- 1 large mango, cored, peeled, and diced
- 1 cup blueberries
- ½ cup walnuts
- ⅓ cup feta cheese, crumbled
Make the Salad Dressing
Preparing the salad dressing is a breeze. Begin by grabbing a mason jar. In it, combine the olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and half of the honey. Whisk well until emulsified. Alternatively, if you’re in a hurry, close the jar with a lid and shake it vigorously. Adjust the lemon juice to taste if desired. This simple dressing elevates the salad with its tanginess.
Prepare the Honey Walnuts
Next up, let’s make those honey walnuts that add a sweet touch. In a small bowl, mix the walnuts with the remaining half of the honey, ensuring they are well coated. This step is quick, but it contributes a delightful crunch.
Assemble the Salad Creations
Now comes the fun part: assembling your salad! For individual servings, start by placing fresh baby spinach in each bowl. Top it with the diced mango, blueberries, honey walnuts, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle the salad dressing over the top and season with a pinch of freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
Combine Everything in a Serving Bowl
If you prefer a communal vibe, feel free to add all the ingredients into a large serving bowl. Pour the dressing over it and toss gently to combine. This way, everyone can dig in together, enjoying the shared experience of this colorful dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries beautifully complements grilled chicken or fish. A refreshing glass of iced tea also pairs wonderfully! Serving it chilled elevates the flavor experience, making it all the more enjoyable during those warm summer days.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to ensure your salad is the best it can be:
- Choose the Right Mango: Ensure that your mango is perfectly ripe for the best flavor. It should be slightly soft to the touch.
- Control Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness of the salad by adding more or less honey according to your taste.
- Add a Crunch: For a crunchier texture, consider toasting the walnuts lightly before adding them to the salad.
Variations
Feel free to mix it up! Here are a couple of variations you can try:
- Swap Greens: Switch the spinach for arugula or mixed greens for different flavor profiles. This adds a peppery kick.
- Creamy Touch: Add sliced avocado for an extra creamy layer that enhances the salad’s richness.
- Cheese Change: Replace feta with goat cheese for a tangy twist. It’s an easy way to personalize your dish.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, don’t worry! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate to maintain the crispness of the greens. The salad tastes fresh even after a day!
Pairing Ideas
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats and fresh seafood. It also serves as a light starter to accompany Italian or Mediterranean dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead, but dress the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Is there a vegan version of this salad?
Yes! Simply replace the honey with agave syrup and skip the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
How can I make this salad gluten-free?
All ingredients in this salad are naturally gluten-free! Just ensure there are no additives in your mustard.
What can I add for extra protein?
Consider adding grilled shrimp, chickpeas, or shredded chicken for a protein boost that makes this salad even more satisfying.
How do I ripen a mango quickly?
To ripen a mango quickly, place it in a brown paper bag at room temperature for 1-2 days until it gets just right.
Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries is not just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that brings together vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients in a harmonious way. Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad promises to satisfy. Perfectly balanced between sweet, savory, and tangy, it’s the kind of dish that leaves you feeling good both inside and out. Enjoy every colorful bite!
More Easy Salads & Sides Recipes:
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries
This Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries is a refreshing mix of juicy mango, sweet blueberries, and crunchy walnuts, all drizzled with a zesty dressing. Perfect for any occasion!
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons honey, divided
- 1 medium lemon, juiced (freshly squeezed or more, to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 oz fresh baby spinach
- 1 large mango, cored, peeled, and diced
- 1 cup blueberries
- ½ cup walnuts
- ⅓ cup feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Combine olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and half of the honey in a mason jar; whisk or shake until emulsified.
- Coat walnuts with the remaining honey in a small bowl.
- For individual servings, place spinach in bowls and top with mango, blueberries, honey walnuts, and feta.
- Drizzle dressing over the salad and season with black pepper.
- Alternatively, combine all ingredients in a large serving bowl, toss gently, and serve.
Notes
Choose a perfectly ripe mango for the best flavor.
Adjust honey to control sweetness according to your preference.
Toast walnuts for an added crunch if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg