Name: Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries for a Refreshing Boost
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Consider avocado oil as a substitute for a different flavor.); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (For a milder taste, yellow mustard can do the trick.); 2 tablespoons Honey (Use maple syrup as a vegan alternative.); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Feel free to adjust the quantity to your liking.); Freshly Ground Black Pepper (Enhances overall flavor; freshly ground gives the best aroma.); 4 cups Fresh Baby Spinach (Substitute with kale or arugula if desired.); 1 large Mango (Opt for ripe mangoes for the best flavor burst.); 1 cup Blueberries (These can be swapped with raspberries in a pinch.); 1/4 cup Walnuts (Try pecans or almonds if you prefer.); 1/2 cup Feta Cheese (Goat cheese is a great alternative.)

On a sun-drenched afternoon, I stumbled upon a vibrant farmer’s market bursting with colors and fresh produce. Among the treasures, ripe mangoes and plump blueberries called my name. It sparked my craving for a refreshing and nutritious dish, leading me to create this 15-Minute Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries. This delightful recipe is not only quick to whip up, making it perfect for hectic weeknights, but it also brings a burst of summer flavors to any picnic or gathering. With wholesome ingredients like crunchy walnuts and creamy feta cheese, this salad serves as a healthy, gluten-free option that both kids and adults will adore. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a colorful side dish to wow your guests, this salad hits all the right notes. What’s your favorite way to enjoy fresh fruit in a salad?

Why is this Mango Salad a Must-Try?

Fresh, Vibrant Ingredients: The combination of sweet mango, juicy blueberries, and crisp spinach creates a colorful feast for the eyes and the palate.

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats, this salad is a delightful way to incorporate more fruits and veggies into your diet.

Versatile Options: Feel free to customize it—swap in grilled chicken or shrimp for protein, or get creative with different nuts, as suggested in recipes like Cold Shrimp Salad.

Crowd-Pleaser: With its delightful blend of creamy feta, crunchy walnuts, and tangy dressing, this salad is sure to impress family and guests alike. Whether you pair it with a light protein or serve it solo, it’s bound to be a hit!

Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries Ingredients

For the Dressing

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Provides healthy fats and a smooth mouthfeel; consider avocado oil as a substitute for a different flavor.
Dijon Mustard – Adds a delightful tanginess; for a milder taste, yellow mustard can do the trick.
Honey – Offers natural sweetness to balance flavors; use maple syrup as a vegan alternative.
Lemon Juice – Provides fresh acidity to brighten the dressing; feel free to adjust the quantity to your liking.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; freshly ground gives the best aroma.

For the Salad

Fresh Baby Spinach – A nutrient-packed base green for the salad; get creative and substitute with kale or arugula if desired.
Large Mango – Adds a sweet and juicy texture; opt for ripe mangoes for the best flavor burst.
Blueberries – Contribute antioxidants and a juicy sweetness; these can be swapped with raspberries in a pinch.
Walnuts – Provide a delightful crunch and healthy fats; try pecans or almonds if you prefer.
Feta Cheese – Adds a creamy contrast to the salad; goat cheese is a great alternative if you’re looking for a different flavor.

Enjoy your wonderfully balanced Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries as a refreshing summer dish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a mason jar, add 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and half of the honey. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the mixture is well emulsified and creamy. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning with freshly ground black pepper and additional honey if necessary, ensuring a pleasing balance of flavors.

Step 2: Honey Walnuts
In a small mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of walnuts with the remaining honey, stirring until each walnut is thoroughly coated. Allow them to sit for about 5 minutes so the honey can slightly thicken and adhere better to the walnuts. This adds a delightful sweetness that will enhance the crunch in your Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In individual serving bowls, start by distributing a generous handful of fresh baby spinach as the base. Next, slice the ripe mango into small cubes and sprinkle them over the spinach. Add a handful of juicy blueberries on top, followed by the honey-coated walnuts and crumbled feta cheese. The vibrant colors will create an inviting presentation that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Step 4: Finish and Serve
Drizzle the desired amount of the homemade lemon honey mustard dressing over each salad, ensuring an even coating. For an added touch, sprinkle a pinch of freshly ground black pepper on top to enhance the flavor profile. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness of your Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries, or mix all the ingredients in a large serving bowl for a communal touch.

Storage Tips for Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the freshness of the salad components.

Freezer: This mango salad is best enjoyed fresh and not suitable for freezing due to the texture of the fruits and spinach.

Dressing Storage: The Lemon Honey Mustard Dressing can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 5 days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

Reheating: Reheat only cooked ingredients (like added proteins) if necessary, but it’s best to enjoy the salad cold to savor the vibrant flavors and textures.

Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor this salad to suit your taste or dietary needs—your palate will thank you!

Nut-Free: Replace walnuts with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without the nuts. Enjoy this version that keeps the salad accessible for everyone.
Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal that’s full of satisfying protein. Adding protein can transform this salad into a fulfilling lunch option.
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like mint or basil for an aromatic twist, elevating the salad with a fragrant burst of flavor. These herbs can really bring the fresh taste of summer into your bowl.
Vegan Swap: Use mashed avocado instead of feta for a creamy and vegan-friendly option. The avocado adds a wonderful richness while keeping the dish light and satisfying.
Sweet Citrus: Swap mango for ripe peaches or juicy tangerines to discover new flavors. Both fruits will give the salad a sweet yet refreshing edge, perfect for a sunny day.
Berries Galore: Try substituting blueberries with strawberries or blackberries for a citrusy variation. This twist not only satisfies the berry lover but also offers vibrant color.
Zesty Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper for a spicy kick. Just a dash can bring a new layer of excitement to each bite!
Creamy Dressing: For a richer taste, add Greek yogurt to the dressing. It makes for a creamy texture that enhances the overall flavor while keeping it nutritious.

Enhance your salad experiences even further with delectable ideas like Cucumber Salad Crab for those hot summer days or try a refreshing Roasted Sweet Salad as a side. Get creative and enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dressing and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in a mason jar—just give it a good shake before using to ensure it’s well mixed. Additionally, you can chop and refrigerate the mango and wash the blueberries up to 24 hours ahead. To maintain the salad’s quality, assemble the ingredients just before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting and the fruit from browning. When ready to enjoy, simply combine the spinach, mango, blueberries, honey-coated walnuts, and feta, then drizzle with the dressing for a refreshing meal that’s just as delicious with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries

Choose Ripe Mangoes: Select mangoes that yield slightly to pressure for the best flavor; unripe ones can be hard and less sweet.
Dress Just Before Serving: To maintain the crispness of the spinach, dress the salad right before serving; this ensures a fresh and vibrant texture.
Mix It Up: Feel free to personalize your mango salad with spinach and blueberries by trying different nuts or cheeses to find your favorite combinations.
Experiment with Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey based on your taste. Adding less can balance flavors if you’re using sweet fruits.
Store Wisely: If you want to enjoy leftovers, store the salad components separately, especially the dressing, to keep everything fresh and crunchy.

What to Serve with Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries

Elevate your meal with delightful sides and drinks that complement this refreshing salad’s vibrant flavors.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy and tender, grilled chicken adds a hearty element that balances the lightness of the salad. It’s a great way to introduce protein while keeping the meal healthy and satisfying.
Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy and nutty, quinoa pilaf is a perfect pairing! Its texture adds variety, and it’s packed with nutrients to round out your meal.
Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunch and garlic flavor add comfort, creating a delicious contrast to the fresh salad. Wrap in foil and warm in the oven for that perfect crispiness!
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity Riesling brings a refreshing finish to this summer dish. It complements the sweetness of the mango perfectly, making every bite feel like a celebration.
Fresh Fruit Sorbet: Cool and refreshing, a scoop of sorbet echoes the salad’s flavors while satisfying your sweet tooth. Choose mango or berry flavors for a harmonious experience!
Marinated Grilled Shrimp: These bite-sized delights offer a smoky sweetness that enhances the salad. Quick to cook, they add a wonderful texture and flavor contrast to the overall dish.
Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh, zucchini noodles add a crunchy texture that pairs well with the salad. Toss them lightly in olive oil and herbs for an extra layer of flavor.
Lemon Tart: To finish off your meal, a zesty lemon tart provides a sweet and tangy finale that mirrors the salad’s bright character, leaving everyone with a satisfied smile!

Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best mangoes for this salad?
Absolutely! Look for mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch, which indicates ripeness. They should have a sweet aroma near the stem and a vibrant color. Avoid any with dark spots all over, as they may be overripe or spoiled.

How should I store leftover salad?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the dressing separate to maintain the freshness and crunch of the spinach and other veggies.

Can I freeze this salad?
Not really. Unfortunately, this mango salad is best enjoyed fresh and isn’t suitable for freezing. Freezing can alter the texture of both the fruits and spinach, making them mushy when thawed.

What if I have allergies? Can I substitute the nuts and cheese?
Certainly! If you’re allergic to nuts, you can substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. For the cheese, goat cheese is a fantastic alternative to feta, maintaining that creamy texture without the same flavor profile. Always ensure to check for any other personal dietary restrictions regarding ingredients.

How do I make the dressing in advance?
For easy meal prep, you can make the Lemon Honey Mustard Dressing ahead of time! Simply follow the dressing instructions, and store it in a jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving, give it a good shake to remix, and adjust the sweetness if needed!

What’s the best way to serve this salad?
Very creatively! To best maintain the crispness, assemble the salad without dressing until you’re ready to serve. For gatherings, you might consider mixing it all in a large bowl, allowing guests to add dressing according to their preference, making it interactive and fun!