This Spinach Blueberry Salad with Poppy Seed Ranch is everything a good salad should be—bright, balanced, and brimming with flavor.
With tender baby spinach, juicy blueberries, creamy avocado, and a homemade poppy seed ranch dressing, this salad is a colorful celebration of wholesome ingredients and satisfying textures.
Perfect as a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or a crowd-pleasing potluck option, this spinach and blueberry salad is quick to assemble and hard to forget.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Nutrient-rich and energizing – Packed with superfoods like spinach, blueberries, and avocado
Bright, creamy, and balanced – A mix of sweet, salty, tangy, and crunchy
Homemade ranch upgrade – With poppy seeds and fresh herbs for flavor and texture
Easy to customize – Add proteins or change up the toppings
Great for meal prep – Make the dressing ahead for effortless assembly
Naturally gluten-free – Just check your ingredients
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Baby spinach – Mild and tender leafy green base
Chopped broccoli – Adds crunch and nutrition
Avocado – Creamy texture and healthy fats
Blueberries – Sweet and juicy antioxidant powerhouse
Crumbled feta cheese – Tangy and salty contrast
Dried cranberries – Sweet-tart chew and color pop
Roasted sunflower seeds – Crunch and nutty flavor
Black pepper – Optional seasoning to finish
For the Poppy Seed Ranch Dressing:
Greek yogurt or sour cream – Creamy base
Buttermilk – Lightens the texture and adds tang
Mayonnaise – Richness and depth
Garlic – Fresh and punchy
Lemon juice or vinegar – Brightens the flavor
Poppy seeds – Crunchy texture and visual appeal
Dried parsley, dill, and spices – Classic ranch flavor
Pro Tips Before You Start
Chill the dressing – Let it rest for an hour for best flavor
Use fresh, ripe avocado – Adds creaminess and richness
Massage spinach if needed – If not baby spinach, softens tougher leaves
Toast the seeds – Extra flavor boost if you have time
Toss dressing just before serving – Keeps greens crisp
How to Make Spinach Blueberry Salad with Poppy Seed Ranch
Step 1: Make the Poppy Seed Ranch Dressing
Peel and mince the garlic into a paste with a pinch of salt.
In a bowl, whisk together the garlic paste, yogurt, buttermilk, mayo, lemon juice, poppy seeds, and all the seasonings until smooth.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad
Wash and dry the spinach. In a large mixing bowl, combine with broccoli, blueberries, avocado, cranberries, feta, and sunflower seeds.
Step 3: Dress and Serve
Drizzle the chilled poppy seed ranch dressing over the salad and toss gently.
Season with black pepper, to taste, and serve immediately.
What to Serve With This Salad
Grilled chicken or salmon – For a protein boost
Soup and salad combo – Pairs well with tomato, squash, or lentil soup
Whole grain bread – A hearty accompaniment
Wraps or grain bowls – Add salad as a base or side
Brunch spread – Serve alongside quiche or egg muffins
Variations & Substitutions
Use mixed greens or arugula – Instead of spinach
Add protein – Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or boiled eggs
Swap feta for goat cheese – For a tangier, creamier twist
Use strawberries or raspberries – In place of blueberries
Make it vegan – Use dairy-free alternatives for yogurt, mayo, and cheese
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Dressing – Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 5 days
Salad base – Prep ingredients ahead, but don’t dress until serving
Avocado – Slice fresh right before eating to avoid browning
Cranberries and seeds – Store separately for max crunch
Not freezer-friendly – Best enjoyed fresh or same day
FAQs
Can I make the dressing ahead?
Yes! It tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.
Can I use store-bought ranch?
Sure, but the homemade version with poppy seeds makes it extra special.
Is this salad kid-friendly?
Definitely! The blueberries, cranberries, and creamy dressing make it fun and approachable.
Can I meal prep this salad?
Yes, store the components separately and toss before serving.
What can I use instead of poppy seeds?
You can skip them or use chia seeds for a similar crunch.
Is it okay to skip the feta?
Yes—try goat cheese, or skip the cheese for a lighter option.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach Blueberry Salad with Poppy Seed Ranch is the kind of dish that surprises you—it’s simple, yet so satisfying.
Whether you’re meal-prepping, hosting, or just craving something fresh and nourishing, this salad brings color, crunch, and creaminess to the table in every bite.
