Spinach Salad with Blackberry Vinaigrette

Last week, as you may or not recall from this blog post, my number two son brought me an abundance of fresh berries. Rather than freezing them - that can sometimes compromise their texture and flavor - I sought creative ways to incorporate them into meals. This morning, inspiration struck, leading to a delightful spinach salad that not only featured these berries, but also transformed them into a star component of a tasty vinaigrette.

Spinach Salad with Blackberry Vinaigrette

The salad was a vibrant mix of:

Fresh Spinach - The base of our salad, providing a robust, earthy flavor.
Homemade Croutons - Adding a delightful crunch and a touch of rustic charm.
Red Onion - For a sharp, contrasting flavor that complements the sweetness of the berries.
Blackberries - Adding bursts of color and sweetness.
Feta Cheese - Offering a creamy, tangy element to balance the sweetness.
Macadamia Nuts - Bringing a buttery, rich texture to the ensemble.

To elevate this already delicious combination, I topped it with blackberry vinaigrette. What an explosion of nutrition and taste!

Blackberry Vinaigrette

1 c. fresh blackberries
⅔ c. light olive oil
⅓ c. raspberry vinegar
¼ t. dry mustard
1-2 T. sugar
1 t. sea salt
¼ t. freshly ground black pepper

Combine all ingredients in the bowl of a mini food processor. Process until the mixture is well emulsified.
Note: You have the option to strain out the seeds for a smoother texture; however, I chose to keep them in for added texture and nutrition.

This vinaigrette can be stored in the refrigerator and will keep for 5 to 7 days, making it perfect for multiple meals or for sharing with friends.

The result was nothing short of brilliant; the vinaigrette not only highlighted the berries' flavors but also added a sophisticated touch to a simple salad. Whether you choose to strain the seeds or embrace the rustic texture, this vinaigrette is sure to impress. Enjoy the fusion of flavors and textures, and let your culinary creativity shine with every bite.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.