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.