Dessert

Sweet and Savory Spinach Salad with Berries, Feta, and Honey Roasted Peanuts Recipe

ByCleo Brixton January 2, 2026January 2, 2026

Introduction

This vibrant spinach salad combines fresh berries, tangy feta, and crunchy honey roasted peanuts for a refreshing and satisfying dish. The homemade balsamic dressing perfectly balances sweetness and acidity, making it a delightful choice for a light lunch or a colorful side.

A white bowl is filled with fresh green spinach leaves forming the base layer. On top, evenly spaced sections of folded, bright orange mandarin slices, deep red sliced strawberries, and plump dark blue blueberries create distinct colorful layers. Crumbled white cheese is sprinkled generously over the fruits and spinach. Small golden brown peanuts are scattered across the salad for texture. A silver spoon drips a dark brown dressing over the strawberries. Two wooden salad serving spoons rest in the bowl on the right side, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

½ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
¾ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
8 cups baby spinach
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 cup fresh strawberries
¾ cup mandarin oranges
½ cup feta cheese
½ cup honey roasted peanuts

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the dressing by setting aside the olive oil. In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Gradually drizzle in the olive oil a little at a time while whisking continuously. This gradual addition helps emulsify the dressing and prevents it from separating. Serve immediately or chill before use, and remember to stir or shake before each serving.
Step 3: Wash and dry the blueberries, strawberries, and mandarin oranges. Remove the stems from the strawberries and slice them vertically.
Step 4: Arrange the baby spinach on a serving platter. Drizzle 3 to 4 tablespoons of the dressing over the spinach, then top with the prepared fruit.
Step 5: Sprinkle the feta cheese over the salad. Drizzle with a little more dressing if desired, and serve the remaining dressing on the side.
Step 6: Finally, top the salad with the honey roasted peanuts for a crunchy finish and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra texture, try adding sliced almonds or walnuts instead of peanuts.
Swap mandarin oranges with fresh orange segments or canned, drained mandarins if fresh aren’t available.
Use baby kale or mixed greens for a different base if you prefer something heartier than spinach.
To make the dressing creamier, whisk in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt before serving.

Storage

Store leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The dressing will keep for up to 5 days. The salad is best eaten fresh; if stored, keep spinach and toppings separate from the dressing to avoid sogginess. Reheat is not recommended.