Spinach Raspberry Salad

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Bored with your regular spinach salad? Make your salad shine with this delicious homemade raspberry vinaigrette. Read on to learn how to make this dairy and gluten-free spinach raspberry salad.

Spinach Raspberry Salad a spinach salad in a glass bowl with raspberry balsamic vinaigrette on a white wooden table | The Radiant Root

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When you think of how to eat raspberries the first thing that may come to mind is eating them by the handful as a snack or maybe adding them to breakfast. However, having a salad with berries is another wonderful way to enjoy this fruit.

I like to add a few different berries to make a colorful spinach fruit salad. In this particular recipe, I added blackberries because they were on sale at my local grocer*. 

When you think fruit you may think summer but surprisingly there has been an influx of raspberry sales so I’ve been trying to come up with some new recipes to incorporate these fruits.

One thing I like to do is take the extra raspberries and create a balsamic-based vinaigrette. This makes your regular summer salad with berries taste even more delicious with its sweet and tangy flavor.

So, if you are interested in learning a new spin on the boring old summer raspberry salad recipes give this spinach raspberry salad recipe a try!

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Raspberries make the best salad dressing for spinach

A few years ago before I started food blogging I made a blueberry dressing which I really enjoyed.

This time around I had a couple of cartons of raspberries thanks to a sale at my local supermarket* and it got me thinking that raspberries might make a great baby spinach salad dressing as well.

The other thing that piqued my curiosity was I could make a sweet dressing without any added sugar. This is because raspberries are a pretty sweet fruit. 

I find that bottled dressings sometimes add too many ingredients and extra sugar when I just want a simple recipe. I realized if I made my own dressing I could get natural sweetness without any of the extra sugar.

Another ingredient that helps this dressing taste good is the addition of balsamic vinegar. This vinegar is made from unfermented grape juice so it too contains natural sugar.

What resulted was a quite yummy vinaigrette that paired wonderfully with spinach. This is because spinach has a naturally bitter taste. 

The sugary taste that the balsamic vinegar and berries give off will dilute the bitterness of the spinach. 

Some people have a hard time eating vegetables because of their bland taste. If you are someone who wants to eat more veggies but is afraid of getting a bad taste, try this pairing. It is sure to please your palette.

I am so excited to share this recipe with you! I feel like it is one of my best spinach salads yet!

*Some of these links are affiliate links, which means when you sign up or purchase from these links we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more in our disclosure statement.

Why you will love spinach and raspberry salad

You will be ecstatic over this spinach and raspberry salad and not only for the way it tastes. A few other things that will make you fall in love with this recipe are that it

  • Is packed with nutrients
  • Has no added sugar
  • Requires just a few ingredients
  • Can be made in less than 30 minutes
  • Creates a colorful dish great for any occasion

This spinach salad with raspberries provides a good dose of nutrients and antioxidants thanks to the addition of the main ingredients: raspberries, spinach, and balsamic vinegar.

If you’re interested in learning more about the nutrients in these foods check out the “nutritional information” and “potential health benefits” sections below.

Another thing that is great about salads with raspberries is that they are so sweet there is no need to add any additional sweeteners. This dressing is a good option for anyone who is looking to lower their added sugar intake.

This recipe makes for an easy spinach salad. It requires less than 10 ingredients and just a little bit of prep. 

The use of dried spices also helps prevent you from being stuck chopping up fresh spices which can save you time. 

So as a result this salad can be whipped up in less than 30 minutes. 

The addition of red raspberries makes this simple spinach salad stand out as beautiful. This is also a great appetizer to have at your next party or social event.

Why You Will love this Spinach Raspberry Salad Infrographic: You will be ecstatic over this spinach and raspberry salad and not only for the way it tastes. A few other things that will make you fall in love with this recipe are that it Is packed with nutrients Has no added sugar Requires just a few ingredients Can be made in less than 30 minutes Creates a colorful dish great for any occasion | easy spinach salad| The Radiant Root

How to pick spinach raspberry salad ingredients

With this recipe, you want to get fresh produce. Picking out raspberries and spinach is pretty simple. So if you haven’t done it before don’t fret!  

What you want to do is get in there and really examine the raspberries and spinach. Most times the berries come in plastic pint containers so you may need to turn it over and look at it from all angles.

How to buy raspberries

When picking raspberries look for ones that are plump, red colorful berries. Make sure there isn’t any mold. And watch out for crushed berries!

For this recipe, I also added blackberries to give it another layer of color. Picking blackberries is similar to raspberries. The berries should be a vibrant black color and not mushy. Make sure there is no mold growing on them either.

The blackberries are optional. So if you don’t like those berries you can use blueberries instead. Or just go with the raspberries only. It’s all up to you to decide!

While berries are a seasonal fruit, you may be able to still a good quality raspberry into the fall. I have also been seeing a lot of sales for berries lately. Which is also a great bonus!

So if the quality of the berries looks good, this recipe can be thought of as more than just a summer spinach salad.

How to pick spinach

Look for fresh spinach with a bright green hue. Avoid any wilted or wet-looking leaves. If you see baby spinach out in its own bin in the produce aisle go for that option.

When it’s out in the open you get a better look at the quality without the container blocking your view.

However, if you don’t see any loosely packaged spinach don’t worry. Just go with what you can find.

Most times spinach is sold in a bag or one of those plastic clamshells. If you only find baby spinach bagged or boxed you can just go with that.

This recipe calls for 4 cups of baby spinach. So the 5 oz clamshell spinach will give you enough.

I like to buy a bigger container if it is a better deal price-wise. I will use the rest to make more spinach salads.

However, if you are not sure you will eat the rest of the spinach, the 5 oz is good for this recipe.

Like the raspberries examine the container of spinach and make sure it’s a bright color and has dry leaves.

What to look for when buying balsamic vinegar

Balsamic vinegar hails from Modena, Italy. This vinegar is very dark, concentrated, and has a strong flavor. It is made partially or fully from grape must. It includes freshly crushed grape juice with all the skins, seeds, and stems. 

There are three types of balsamic vinegar that are regulated:

  • Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
  • Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Reggio Emilia
  • Balsamic Vinegar of Modena 

The first two are traditional balsamic vinegar that has been aged in wooden barrels for several years. They are protected by the European Union’s Protected Designation of Origin (PDI) and are a little more pricey than other types of balsamic vinegar. 

That is because the Balsamic Vinegar of Modena is a mix of grape and wine vinegar made in Modena or Reggio Emilia. This vinegar has a protected geographical indication (PGI) status.

Greece also makes some tasty balsamic vinegar.

I like to use the balsamic vinegar of Modena or one from Greece. 

For this particular recipe, I used the Greek balsamic vinegar Vrisi 36*. This brand uses Corinthian grapes and makes a naturally sweet flavor. The grapes are fermented into vinegar and then aged in oak barrels. 

I found this made a tasty dressing but if you cannot find this brand look for a balsamic vinegar ingredients list that does not have any added sugar, additives, preservatives, or sulfites.

Do you need to use organic raspberries, spinach & vinegar?

If you’re wondering if you need to get organic produce. It depends on the produce. 

There is some research that shows organic foods contain fewer pesticides, toxic metabolites, and heavy metals than conventional produce. It may also reduce the risk of exposure to antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

On the other hand, organic produce does not seem to be nutritionally superior to conventional produce. 

However, organic crops do seem to have higher antioxidant levels but this does not necessarily always translate to more nutrition.

Unfortunately, there are yet to be any long-term studies on the effects of conventional produce versus organic. 

For now, we only know that certain produce including spinach, berries, and grapes (which are made into balsamic vinegar) are high in pesticides. So if you are concerned about your pesticide intake, you can buy organic produce instead. 

You will still get the nutrients from eating regular fruits and veggies. So overall more fruits and veggies, in general, is better than eating none at all.

What To Look for when shopping for berries, spinach, and balsamic vinegar | Spinach Raspberry Salad | How to Buy Raspberries | How to Pick Spinach |balsamic vinegar ingredients | The Radiant Root

Spinach raspberry salad nutritional information

This berry spinach salad is packed with vitamins and minerals thanks to its veggie and fruit ingredients. This salad is also gluten and dairy-free. Below is a breakdown of the nutritional value of the following ingredients:

  • Spinach
  • Raspberries
  • Balsamic vinegar

Nutritional value of spinach

Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrition. Here is a breakout of the nutritional value of spinach based on one cup of raw spinach:

  • Calories: 7
  • Protein: 0.86 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 1.09 grams
  • Fat: 0.12 grams
  • Fiber: 0.66 grams

As you can see it is a low-carb, low-fat, and low-calorie food. The overall calories in spinach salad will depend on what you pair this food with. Some dressings will shift the total nutritional value and increase the saturated fat content. 

There is also a full nutritional breakdown for this specific salad below in the recipe card.

If you are wondering, “Does spinach have fiber, and is spinach high in fiber?” It has some.

A one-cup serving of raw spinach contains 0.66 grams of fiber. This may not seem like a lot of fiber, but this nutrient actually makes up most of the carbs found in spinach. 

Other nutrients in spinach

There is a lot of nutrition in spinach. It contains many essential vitamins and minerals. One serving of spinach is a good source of  the following:

  • Iron: 0.81 g (10% of the RDI)
  • Magnesium: 24 mg (7% of the RDI)
  • Potassium: 167 mg (8% of the RDI)

Raw spinach also contains a small amount of calcium with 29.7 mg in a one-cup serving (3% of the RDI). 

In addition to the minerals, here is information on what vitamins are in spinach.

The most prevalent vitamins in spinach include the following

  • Vitamin A: 141 mg (15% of the RDI)
  • Vitamin C: 8.43 mg (10% of the RDI)
  • Vitamin K: 145 mcg (Over 100% of the RDI)
  • Folate: 58.2 mcg (15% of the RDI) 

An RDA that is at 10% is considered a good source of that nutrient. An RDA above 20% is considered an excellent source. This means spinach is an excellent source of vitamin K and a good source of folate, vitamins A, and C. 

Nutritional value of raspberries

Similar to spinach, raspberries’ serving size consists of one cup. Here is a breakout of the nutrients found in this fruit:

  • Calories: 64
  • Protein: 1.5 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 14.6 grams
  • Fiber: 8 grams

As you can see the calories in a cup of raspberries are just 64 making it a low-calorie food. It is also a low-carb food.

Another nice thing is that there is a lot of fiber in raspberries. A one-cup serving provides 22% of the recommended daily intake of this vital nutrient.

If you’re wondering if this is a keto-friendly food you want to calculate the net carbs. Subtract the fiber from the total carbs in raspberries and you get a net carb of 6.6 grams. This is considered good for the keto diet.

Other nutrients in raspberries

According to the raspberry nutrition facts, there is a load of essential vitamins and minerals found in this food.

One serving of raspberries is a good source of 

  • Potassium: 186 mg (10% of the RDI)
  • Vitamin K: 9.59 mcg (10% of the RDI)

It is also an excellent source of vitamin C providing 32.2 milligrams per serving. This translates to about 42% of the required daily intake of this nutrient.

Raspberries also provide between 5 and 9% of the RDI of the following nutrients:

  • Folate: 25.8 mcg (6% of the RDI)
  • Iron: 0.849 mg (6% of the RDI)
  • Magnesium: 27.1 mg (6.7 to 8.7% of the RDI)
  • Niacin: 0.736 mg (5% of the RDI)
  • Pantothenic Acid: 0.405 mg (8% of the RDI)
  • Potassium: 186 mg (9% of the RDI)
  • Vitamin E: 1.07 mg (7% of the RDI)

Raspberries also contain small amounts of the following nutrients 

  • Copper: 0.11 mg (0.1% of the RDI)
  • Phosphorus: 35.7 mg (1.2 to 1.5% of the RDI)
  • Riboflavin: 0.047 mg (3.6% of the RDI)
  • Thiamin 0.039 mg (3.2 to 3.5% of the RDI)
  • Vitamin A: 2.46 IU (0.1% of the RDI)
  • Vitamin B6 0.068 mg (4 to 5% of the RDI)
  • Zinc 0.517 mg (4.7 to 6.4% of the RDI) 

Nutritional value of balsamic vinegar

Vinegar is made from fermented and aged grapes. According to the balsamic vinegar nutrition facts, one tablespoon serving contains the following:

  • Calories: 14
  • Protein: 0 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 3 grams
  • Fat: 0 grams
  • Fiber: 0 grams

Looking at the balsamic vinegar nutrition information, you can see one tablespoon provides no protein, fat, or fiber. With just 14 calories in balsamic vinegar, it is a low-calorie food. 

There are also 3 grams of carbs in balsamic vinegar. If you’re wondering, “Does balsamic vinegar have sugar?” The answer is yes. 

There are about 2.4 grams of natural sugar in this vinegar. Some brands could also have added sweeteners which may also affect the overall sugar content. The amount of sugar will depend on the type of sweetener added to the product.

Added sugar in balsamic vinegar will be shown on the nutrition label under the “added sugars” line in the ingredient list. Look for a product with no added sugar to keep your balsamic vinegar keto.

Additionally, the question, “Is balsamic vinegar gluten-free?” may come up if you need to follow this type of diet.

Some products may use gluten grains to ferment their vinegar. So this answer depends on the brand in question.

Look for the “gluten-free” seal on the product and read the ingredient list to know for sure that there is no added gluten.

Other Essential Balsamic Vinegar Nutrients

Balsamic vinegar is also a source of some essential nutrients including 

  • Calcium (4.3 mg 0% of the RDI)
  • Phosphorus (3 mg 0% of the RDI)
  • Potassium (17.9 mg 0% of the RDI)
  • Magnesium (1.9 mg 0% of the RDI)

Acetic acid is another nutrient found in balsamic vinegar. It is a type of fatty acid found in vinegar that has nutritive properties. It is not essential but has some potential health benefits that are outlined in the “Balsamic Vinegar Benefits” section below.

Spinach Raspberry Salad Nutrition Facts Infographic | berry spinach salad| Includes the Nutritional Value of Spinach, Nutrients in Spinach, Nutritional Value of Raspberries and the Nutritional Value of Balsamic Vinegar | The Radiant Root

This spinach raspberry salad is loaded with antioxidants

In addition to the raspberry, balsamic vinegar, and spinach nutrients, this recipe also contains compounds known as antioxidants. These substances are found in fruits and vegetables. 

They help protect the plants from harm and disease. It is thought that eating foods with these compounds can have potential health benefits for people who consume them. 

Antioxidants found in the foods in this berry spinach salad include the following: 

Along with the nutrients found in these foods, these antioxidants may provide potential health benefits. 

Antioxidants in the Spinach Raspberry Salad Infographic. List of Antioxidants in this salad recipe: Beta carotene Catechins Ellagic acid Kaempferol Lutein Nitric oxide Resveratrol Quercetin Zeaxanthin | The Radiant Root

Benefits of eating a spinach berry salad

Spinach salad with raspberries not only tastes great but provides some potential health benefits as well.

This section will answer the questions: 

  • Is spinach good for you?
  • Are raspberries healthy?
  • Is balsamic vinegar healthy?

Potential spinach health benefits

Thanks to all the nutrients there are many potential health benefits of eating spinach.

When it comes to what is spinach good for it has been associated with improvements in

Another of many possible nutritional benefits of raw spinach is reduced inflammation. 

Health benefits of raspberry

Due to their sweet taste, people often wonder, “Are raspberries good for you? Like spinach, raspberries’ nutritional makeup associates this fruit with health improvements.

One of the main benefits of raspberries is that they are high in antioxidants. These compounds may prevent inflammatory conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

Additionally, other benefits of eating raspberries include improvements in brain health. Similar to spinach the nutrients found in fruit may also help with digestive, skin, and immune health.

Balsamic vinegar benefits

Balsamic vinegar is a sweet-tasting salad dressing ingredient. Some kinds of vinegar are healthier than others. It all depends on the type.

Check out the section above “What to Look for When Buying Balsamic Vinegar” to find one that offers the most benefits.

The potential benefits of balsamic vinegar are pretty similar to those found in spinach and raspberries. A high-quality balsamic vinegar will have no added sugar, additives, or preservatives. 

This type of vinegar also contains nutrients (as mentioned above) that may aid with inflammation, cholesterol, blood sugar, blood circulation, immunity as well as digestion, and skin health.

Potential Spinach Health Benefits, Health Benefits of Raspberry, and Balsamic Vinegar Benefits infographic | The Radiant Root

Potential berry spinach salad side effects

The ingredients in this berry spinach salad are safe to consume for most individuals. However, there can be some side effects from spinach, raspberries, and balsamic vinegar to be aware of.

Potential spinach side effects

While spinach is a nutrient-rich food, it can also cause some side effects in large amounts. Too much spinach may lead to oxalate kidney stones. Early research shows high intakes of oxalates may also reduce calcium absorption.

The vitamin K in spinach may also mess with blood-thinning medication such as warfarin. Rapid changes in spinach consumption may interfere with these types of medications.

When served raw, the amount of potassium in a cup of spinach is 167 mg. This nutrient may be harmful to those with severe kidney issues

Potential raspberry side effects

There are no reported side effects of consuming red raspberry fruit. The only concern is that some fruit may contain pesticide residue.

If you want to avoid pesticides you can buy organic raspberries when possible.

Potential side effects of balsamic vinegar

Balsamic vinegar is safe for most people with the exception of those who are allergic. However, side effects such as stomach pain, gas, heartburn, burning of the throat, tongue-tingling/swelling, and red/white patches on the tongue have been experienced. 

Those who’ve experienced side effects of balsamic vinegar before, have heartburn, GERD, and/or have a sensitivity/allergy to balsamic vinegar or grapes should probably avoid this food. 

You can substitute apple cider or red wine vinegar instead.

Ingredients in this berry spinach salad

This spinach berry salad is pretty easy to make. You just need to

  • Gather your ingredients
  • Prep the veggies and fruit
  • Make the dressing
  • Compile the salad and toss in the dressing
  • Enjoy!

Just to make the recipe ingredients more clear cut, I separated the spinach salad with berries ingredients into two categories: 

  • Ingredients for the SALAD
  • Ingredients for the RASPBERRY BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE

Ingredients for the salad part of the spinach raspberry salad

The best thing about this recipe berry salad is it can be made with just a few ingredients! 

Here is a breakdown of the raspberry spinach salad ingredients:

  • 4 cups baby spinach
  • 1 medium cucumber peeled and chopped into small pieces
  • 1 medium red onion peeled and diced
  • ½ cup fresh raspberries
  • ½ cup fresh blackberries (optional)

Spinach 

For this berries salad, I used fresh baby spinach. This type of spinach is more tender and has a sweeter flavor than regular spinach.

If you’re not a fan of spinach feel free to use another type of lettuce. Check out the “Spinach Raspberry Salad Recipe Substitutions & Additions” section below.

Raspberries

You can’t have a raspberry spinach salad without raspberries! These berries provide a natural sweetness that can make your boring salads a lot more appealing without any added sugar. 

While most of the raspberries in this recipe will be used in the raspberry vinegar dressing, I like to put aside about a half cup of whole raspberries to be used as a salad topping later.

Cucumber

Cucumbers are usually my go-to. This is because I like their crisp, cool hydrating taste. 

The crisp, raw, and mild taste of cucumbers pairs deliciously with the bitter and sweet tastes of spinach and raspberries.

When picking out a cucumber look for one that is firm, and dark green. Make sure it does not have any wrinkles and soft, or spongy spots. 

Red onion

Another must-have salad ingredient for me is red onion. This root veggie gives the salad a nice bit of flavor with its mild and sweet taste. It also adds some color to the palette for a pretty salad.

Blackberries (optional)

The addition of more fresh berries will make it an even more berry salad. Amp up the color and antioxidant level with another half cup of blackberries like I did.

Don’t like blackberries? No problem! Add some blueberries or strawberries instead.

Ingredients for the balsamic raspberry vinaigrette

Here is a list of what is needed to make the spinach raspberry salad dressing:

  • 1 cup fresh raspberries pureed
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic peeled and sliced
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp balsamic Vinegar

The pairing of these ingredients in this homemade berry vinaigrette makes a sweet, tangy, and flavorful salad.

Raspberries

Like most spinach salad dressings you need a base flavor. For this berry salad dressing, raspberries provide a naturally sweet taste. Using a food processor* is the best way how to puree raspberries to liquid form.

If you don’t have one read the “recipe substitutions” section below on how to make this dressing without a food processor.

Garlic and parsley

The addition of garlic and parsley to this spinach salad dressing recipe gives it additional nutrients and enhances the flavor.

Extra virgin olive oil

Vinaigrette for spinach salad recipes like this one requires adding olive oil. For this raspberry vinaigrette salad dressing, I used extra virgin olive oil for its bitter and spicy taste.

Balsamic vinegar

One of the main balsamic vinegar uses is as an ingredient in salad dressings. For me, balsamic vinegar salad dressings are my favorite because they are so easy to incorporate into recipes.

The balsamic vinegar in this spinach salad vinaigrette is also what makes the dressing a vinaigrette. This ingredient is the reason this recipe for raspberry vinaigrette is so tangy and flavorful.

Ingredients for the Spinach Raspberry Salad in small clear glass bowls on a white wooden table: dried parsley, balsamic vinegar, cucumbers peeled and chopped, fresh raspberries, red onion peeled and diced, extra virgin olive oil, fresh baby spinach, blackberries | The Radiant Root

How to make spinach raspberry salad (step-by-step)

Making this spinach Salad with raspberry vinaigrette involves a little prep but can be finished in under 30 minutes!

Read on to get a step-by-step tutorial.

There are three parts to making this spinach raspberry salad recipe. They involve the following: 

  • Prepping the ingredients
  • How to make the raspberry vinaigrette
  • How to assemble the spinach salad with raspberry dressing

Prepping the ingredients

Once you have gathered all your ingredients start by prepping them ready for the salad and dressing. 

This means washing and drying the berries and cucumber. Be sure to separate the raspberries and blackberries into different bowls and set them aside. 

Peel and chop the cucumber and onion. Peel and slice the garlic. Then set them on the side until later.

How to Make raspberry vinaigrette for spinach salad

Here are the steps on how to make the raspberry dressing for spinach salad. 

1. In a food processor* add a cup of raspberries, cover, and run for about 5 seconds until the raspberries are pureed.

Spinach raspberry salad raspberry balsamic vinaigrette instruction photos 1 and 2 of 8 | Left side photo shows fresh raspberries in an uncovered food processor, the right side photo shows pureed raspberries | The Radiant Root

2. Then uncover and add the garlic, parsley,

Spinach raspberry salad raspberry balsamic vinaigrette instruction photos 3 and 4 of 8 | Left photos shows pureed raspberries in photo topped with garlic slices, Right photo shows pureed raspberries in food processor with garlic and dried parsley | The Radiant Root

olive oil, and balsamic vinegar to the food processor.

Spinach raspberry salad raspberry balsamic vinaigrette instruction photos 5 and 6 of 8 | Left photo shows open food processor with dressing ingredients pureed raspberries, sliced garlic, dried parsley, and extra virgin olive oil, Left photo shows food processor with last ingredient in raspberry balsamic dressing pureed raspberries, garlic slices, dried parsley, extra virgin olive oil, and balsamic vinegar | The Radiant Root

3. Cover and run the food processor until it is well blended (about 1 minute).

4. The final step in this dressing recipe for spinach salad is to pour the mixture into a small bowl. Using a spatula scrape any dressing off the sides of the food processor. Once you get all the salad raspberry vinaigrette out of the food processor set the bowl aside.

Spinach raspberry salad raspberry balsamic vinaigrette instruction photos 7 and 8 of 8 | Left photo shows open food processor with blended finalized raspberry dressing | Right side photo shows the dressing being poured into a small bowl from the food processor | The Radiant Root

How to assemble this spinach Salad with raspberry vinaigrette

The last part of this recipe is to assemble the salad ingredients with the dressing. Building the salad takes less than five minutes.

1. In a large bowl, add the spinach, red onion,

Spinach Raspberry Salad compiling the salad instruction photos 1 and 2 of 7 | Left photo has a clear glass bowl on a white wooden table with baby spinach, Right side photo has a clear glass bowl with spinach and red onion | The Radiant Root

cucumber, and blackberries.

Spinach Raspberry Salad compiling the salad instruction photos 3 and 4 of 7 | Left photo a clear glass bowl on a white wooden table with spinach red onion, and cucumbers, Right photo a clear glass bowl on a white wooden table with spinach, red onion, cucumbers, and blackberries | The Radiant Root

2. Then toss in the raspberry vinaigrette. 

Spinach Raspberry Salad compiling the salad instruction photos 5 and 6 of 7 | Left photo a clear glass bowl on a white wooden table with spinach red onion, cucumbers, blackberries topped with raspberry balsamic vinaigrette dressing| Right photo a clear glass bowl on a white wooden table with the salad dressing mixed into the salad with two brown wooden spoons sitting in the bowl The Radiant Root

3. Finally, top the salad with the additional raspberries and enjoy!

Spinach Raspberry Salad compiling the salad instruction photos 7 of 7 | A clear glass bowl on a white wooden table with the finished spinach berry salad topped with fresh raspberries | The Radiant Root

Spinach raspberry salad substitutions & additions

Although this recipe is great on its own, if you don’t have a certain ingredient or want to change something here are some ideas for spinach salad substitutions and additions.

Substitutions for ingredients 

Spinach salads with fruit taste great no matter what type is used. So if you don’t like blackberries you can use blueberries and make it a raspberry blueberry spinach salad. These will also give the salad another burst of color.

Can’t find any fresh raspberries? No worries! You can also substitute frozen ones in the berry salad dressing recipe.

Homemade raspberry vinaigrette recipes like this one offer a great way to control your sugar intake. However, if you don’t have time to blend the berries you can use a store-bought no-added sugar jam*, raspberry vinegar, or vinaigrette instead. 

If you don’t like balsamic vinegar you can substitute the same amount of apple cider vinegar. Regular olive oil can also be used in place of extra virgin.

If you don’t like or can’t find any baby spinach you can sub in any of your favorite leafy greens and will still get a great taste. Arugula is a great replacement for spinach. I love its peppery taste.

Substitutions for making the salad without a food processor

If you don’t have a food processor you can use an immersion* or regular blender*. If you don’t have any of these you can mash the garlic with a garlic press* and just mix everything together in a large bowl with a whisk*. 

You just need to make sure you mash and mince all your ingredients together. It will take longer but will get the job done.

Possible additions to this spinach raspberry salad

The pureed raspberries naturally sweeten this dressing enough for me but if you are someone who is looking for more sweetness you can add a little bit of brown sugar or raw honey.

If you want to spice up your dressing you can add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing. A sprinkling of black pepper will also give your salad a little kick.

I’ve seen spinach raspberry salad recipes call for gorgonzola, Parmesan, feta, goat cheese, and/or blue cheese. Unfortunately, I can’t do dairy and that is why I forwent the cheese in this recipe.

If you are in the mood for cheese a slice or two of avocado is a good way to quell your craving.

If you are looking to add some crunch to your salad you can top it with seeds or nuts. Some of my favorites are sunflower seeds, pecans, walnuts, almonds, macadamia, and/or pine nuts. This will also give it a dose of protein.

Please note these additions will also change the nutrient and calorie information.

Tips to make your spinach raspberry salad great

Some tips that will make your spinach raspberry salad great include 

  • Get fresh produce
  • Using kitchen gadgets to prep ingredients
  • Keep the salad separate from the dressing separate until you eat

Look for fresh produce

Look for colorful produce like bright plump red berries and green vibrant spinach. Avoid moldy or bruised berries and wilted leaves. Make sure your cucumber is crisp and green, not soft.

Use kitchen gadgets to prep your ingredients

Using a food processor* makes the berry salad dressing recipe a lot easier to make. This gadget seamlessly blends the ingredients in no time at all.

Another gadget that was helpful in this recipe is the garlic peeler*.

Keep the salad dressing separate until you are ready to eat

A salad without dressing will last longer than a salad that is dressed. So if you know you are not eating the whole salad in one day you might want to keep the dressing separate until you have your bowl of salad. 

How to store the recipe

If you have any leftovers and are curious about how to store fresh spinach raspberry salad here are the details. 

Place the extra salad in a sealable air-tight container* and place it in the refrigerator for three to five days. 

The dressing should also be put in a small container with a lid* and refrigerated. The raspberry dressing will be good for up to seven days.

Can you freeze salad and raspberry dressing?

As to whether or not can you freeze salad, the answer is, unfortunately, this spinach raspberry salad cannot be frozen. 

Can you freeze salad dressing? Yes, any leftover vinaigrette can be placed in the freezer but it may alter the consistency of the vinaigrette. So it’s best to keep it in the fridge.

Common & FAQs for spinach raspberry salad

Is raw spinach salad healthy?

As mentioned above raw spinach salad is full of many essential vitamins and nutrients. It provides a good source of iron, magnesium, potassium, vitamins A, C, and folate. It has more than 20% of the Daily Value and is an excellent source of vitamin K. 

So spinach salad is a healthy food to incorporate into the diet.

How healthy is spinach salad?

Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients. In addition to essential vitamins and minerals, it will offer a bunch of antioxidants. These compounds may help with health improvements in eye, skin, hair, blood pressure, blood sugar, digestion, and immune function.

What is in raspberry salad dressing?

This raspberry salad dressing is super easy to make and contains fresh raspberries, garlic, dried parsley, extra virgin olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Frozen raspberries can also be substituted if you can’t find fresh ones

What is the secret to making a good salad?

The secret to making a good salad is fresh ingredients, flavorful spices, and the natural sweetness of raspberries.

Can you make this spinach raspberry salad ahead of time?

The salad is best when it is served close to eating. If you know you are not eating right away you may want to keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from getting soggy.

What to serve this spinach raspberry salad with 

Spinach raspberry salad makes a great appetizer to serve with any meal. It can also work as a side with chicken and seafood like salmon or shrimp. 

Want to make it a full meal? Just top it with your favorite type of protein. Whether you’re in the mood for meat or a plant protein this salad will taste great with grilled chicken, salmon, chickpeas, or beans.

Equipment used in this recipe*

Here is a list of equipment or similar items used to make this spinach raspberry salad recipe.

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Spinach Raspberry Salad (recipe card)

Brighten up your meal time with this colorful and tasty raspberry spinach salad. With just a few ingredients you can make this sweet and tangy salad in under 30 minutes.
Course Appetizer, dinner, lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine AIP, American, dairy-free, keto, night shade free, no added sugar, paleo, sugar free, vegan, vegetarian
Keyword 30 minute meal, AIP, appetizers, balsamic vinegar, dairy-free, easy appetizer, easy recipe, easy side, garlic, green veggies, keto, no added sugar, paleo, salad dressing, salads, vegetables, vegetarian, veggies
Prep Time 22 minutes
Salad assembly time 3 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 cups
Calories* 65kcal

Ingredients

Spinach Raspberry Salad Ingredients

  • 4 cups Baby spinach
  • 1 medim Cucumber peeled and chopped into small pieces
  • 1 medium Red onion peeled and diced
  • 1/2 cup Fresh raspberries
  • 1/2 cup Fresh blackberries (optional)

Spinach Raspberry Salad Dressing Ingredients

  • 1 cup Fresh raspberries pureed
  • 2 cloves Fresh garlic peeled and sliced
  • 1 tsp Dried parsley
  • 2 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar

Instructions

Ingredient Prep Instructions

  • Gather your ingredient then prep the fruit and veggies. Rinse and dry the cucumber, raspberries and blackberries. Dry them then place the berries in separate bowls and set aside. Peel and chop the cucumber and red onion, Peel and slice the garlic.

Raspberry Balsamic Vinaigrette Instructions

  • Measure out 1 cup of raspberries for the balsamic raspberry vinaigrette. Place them in a food processor until pureed (about 5 seconds)
  • Cover and run the food processor to puree the raspberries (about 5 seconds).
  • Uncover and add the garlic, parsley, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Cover the food processor and run it for about 1 minute. Check to see if the dressing is well blended.
  • Take the blended dressing and pour it into a small bowl using a spatula to scrape the dressing off the sides of the food processor. Once you get all the dressing out of the food processor set the bowl aside.

Instructions for Compiling the Spinach Raspberry Salad with the Dressing

  • In another large bowl build the salad. Add spinach, red onion, cucumber, and blackberries.
  • Toss the raspberry balamic vinaigrette into the salad and mix until well blended.
  • Top the salad with the additional raspberries and enjoy.

Video

Notes

Here are some notes on recipe tips, substitutions/additions, storing the recipe, and what to pair the salad with.

Tips to Make This Spinach Raspberry Salad Great!

Get fresh produce. Look for bright and plump raspberries, crisp lettuce, and cucumbers. 
Use kitchen gadgets like a food processor* and garlic peeler* to easily blend the dressing.
Keep the salad separate from the dressing. An undressed salad will last longer than a salad that has a vinaigrette on it. So keep your salad dry until you are ready to eat.

Salad Substitutions

The recipe will taste great as is, but if you want to change something here are some ideas. 
If you cannot find fresh raspberries thawed frozen ones will also do. 
If you don’t like blackberries you can use blueberries and strawberries instead. This will give you another pop of color.
If you want to sweeten your dressing you can add a tsp of honey or maple syrup. Or if you don’t have time to puree raspberries you can get a store-bought no-added sugar jam*, raspberry vinegar, or vinaigrette instead.
Apple cider vinegar can also be used in place of balsamic vinegar. Regular olive oil can also be subbed in for extra virgin. 
If you want a different leafy green arugula is a great option to use.
This recipe is normally made with a food processor but you can also use an immersion* or regular blender*. If you don’t have any of these you can just mince the dressing ingredients and mix it all together with a whisk*.
This may take a bit longer but will make a nice dressing

Salad Additions

For me, this recipe is sweet enough on its own. However, if you want extra sweetness you can add a tsp of maple syrup, brown sugar, or raw honey.
For a spicier dressing, you can add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a dash of black pepper.
Some spinach-raspberry salad recipes will call for cheese, however, I cannot have too much dairy. So I will forgo this ingredient.
If  I am in the mood for cheese I will add a slice or two of avocado as a good replacement. 
Nuts and seeds can also add a nice crunch as well as a good source of protein.
All of these additions will change the nutritional content of the salad.

What To Do With Leftovers

If you have any leftovers you can put them in a resealable container and place them in the fridge. If you can keep the salad separate from the dressing that will keep it fresher for longer. 
Dry salad will last for about three to five days in the refrigerator. Dressed salad may not last as long since it could get wilted faster.
Salad dressing can be saved for up to seven days. It can also be frozen, but this may change the consistency so it’s not really recommended.
If you have any salad left it’s best to keep it in the fridge.

What To Serve With This Spinach Raspberry Salad

The spinach raspberry salad is meant to be an appetizer or side dish but if you add a protein like grilled chicken, salmon, or beans it can be a full meal. Nuts and seeds can also make this salad a little more filling.

Nutritional Information

For this recipe, the salad and dressing nutritional information are separated. The serving size for the salad is 1 cup and the serving size for the dressing is 2 tablespoons.
See the corresponding food labels below.
*Nutritional information is estimated using Nutrifox nutrition label maker*
Spinach Raspberry Salad Nutritional Label
Raspberry Balsamic Vinaigrette Nutritional Label

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