If you are on the lookout for a vibrant, refreshing salad that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, this Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Bursting with fresh baby spinach, juicy strawberries, and plump blueberries, each bite dances delightfully on your palate. The honey lemon dressing adds just the right amount of zing, making this salad an unforgettable companion for any meal or even a star dish on its own.

Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

While the ingredients for this salad might seem simple, each one plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s colorful, textured, and absolutely delicious. From the creamy dressing to the fresh fruit and crunchy almonds, every bite offers a perfect harmony of flavors and nutrients.

½ cup milk: Used to create a creamy base for the dressing, adding smoothness without heaviness.
Juice of ½ a lemon: Adds a bright, zesty kick that balances the honey’s sweetness beautifully.
½ cup mayonnaise or light mayonnaise: Brings richness and creaminess to the honey lemon dressing.
1½ tablespoons Onion Onion™ Seasoning: Infuses a subtle savory depth that lifts the dressing beyond ordinary.
1 tablespoon honey: Sweetens the dressing naturally, harmonizing with the fresh fruit in the salad.
1 (10 ounce) package fresh baby spinach leaves: The nutrient-packed green base providing freshness and vibrant color.
2 cups sliced fresh strawberries: Juicy and sweet, they add a burst of summery flavor and bright red hues.
1 cup fresh blueberries: Pops of tart sweetness and beautiful blue contrast in every bite.
½ cup sliced almonds, toasted: Offers a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor to complement the soft fruits and greens.
½ cup crumbled goat cheese (optional): Adds a creamy, tangy element if you want an extra layer of richness.
Fresh cracked black pepper (optional): Adds subtle spice and complexity for a finished touch.

How to Make Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Whip Up the Dressing

Start by combining the milk and lemon juice in a small bowl and let it sit for a minute or two until it thickens slightly. This step is key to creating a luscious base for your honey lemon dressing. Next, whisk in the mayonnaise, Onion Onion Seasoning, and honey until smooth. Taste and season with a pinch of salt and pepper to elevate the flavors, making sure your dressing perfectly balances tanginess and sweetness.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the fresh baby spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and toasted sliced almonds. This combination brings a wonderful contrast of textures—the tender greens, juicy fruit, and crunchy nuts come together like a symphony of fresh flavors and textures.

Step 3: Dress and Toss

Drizzle the dressing over your spinach and fruit mixture little by little, tossing gently as you go to ensure every leaf and berry is coated in that irresistible honey lemon goodness. If you’re including goat cheese and cracked black pepper, sprinkle them on top right before serving to add creamy and spicy highlights that make this salad even more special.

How to Serve Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing this salad with crumbled goat cheese adds a creamy tang that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the honey lemon dressing and fresh fruit. For an added pop, a sprinkle of fresh cracked black pepper offers a subtle heat that enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering any ingredient.

Side Dishes

This Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe is fantastic served alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light lunch or dinner. It also pairs perfectly with a crusty baguette and a glass of crisp white wine, turning any meal into a refreshing, elegant experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the salad in individual clear glass bowls or mason jars so the layers of spinach, fruit, and almonds are on full display. You can also toss in edible flowers or fresh mint leaves for an extra burst of color and aroma that will wow your guests visually and in flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The spinach and fruit salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To prevent sogginess, keep the dressing separate and toss the salad just before serving.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the fresh spinach and berries will lose their texture and become mushy upon thawing, which diminishes the bright, crisp experience this Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe offers.

Reheating

Since this salad is best served cold, reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you want to incorporate the salad into a warm dish, consider gently warming the dressing separately and pouring it over fresh spinach just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits in this Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with fruits like raspberries, blackberries, or mandarin orange slices. Just keep the balance of sweet and tangy in mind to maintain the perfect harmony with the dressing.

Is there a dairy-free option for the dressing?

Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free version or use a plain vegan yogurt, and replace the milk with almond or oat milk to keep the dressing creamy without dairy.

How long does the dressing last if stored separately?

The honey lemon dressing can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Give it a quick whisk before using as it may separate slightly over time.

Can I prepare this salad in advance for a picnic or party?

You can prep the fruit and spinach ahead of time and keep them chilled separately. Just pack the dressing separately and combine everything right before serving to ensure freshness and prevent wilting.

What makes the Onion Onion Seasoning special for this recipe?

Onion Onion Seasoning adds a subtle savory complexity without the harshness of raw onions, which helps to balance the sweetness and acidity of the dressing and salad ingredients perfectly.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe enough for anyone craving a bright, fresh, and easy-to-make salad that impresses every time. Its delightful combination of textures and flavors makes it the kind of dish you’ll want to share with friends and family – and I genuinely hope it becomes a favorite in your recipe collection like it is in mine!

Spinach & Fruit Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing Recipe