Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Light Spinach and Kiwi Salad

Light Spinach and Kiwi Salad


Description

A vibrant, refreshing light spinach and kiwi salad with crunchy almonds and tangy feta—ready in just 5 minutes for a colorful side dish or light meal that tastes like spring.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2Light Spinach and Kiwi Salad


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 oz baby spinach (about 4 cups—look for tender young leaves)
  • 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced (ripe but firm for best texture)
  • 2 tablespoons sliced almonds (toast them for extra flavor if you have time)
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (block feta you crumble yourself works best)
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette (homemade or good quality store-bought)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl (bigger than you think you need), combine the baby spinach, sliced kiwis, and sliced almonds. Use a bowl with plenty of room for tossing.
  2. Add the crumbled feta cheese to the salad. Distribute it evenly so you get some in every bite instead of it all sinking to the bottom.
  3. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over all the salad ingredients. Start with less than you think you need—you can always add more, but you can’t take it away.
  4. Toss the salad gently using your hands or salad tongs to make sure all ingredients are well combined and lightly coated with dressing. Be gentle so you don’t bruise the spinach or break up the kiwi slices.
  5. Serve the light spinach and kiwi salad immediately while everything is crisp and fresh. This doesn’t keep well once dressed, so eat up!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 165
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Vitamin C: 120% DV
  • Vitamin K: 180% DV
  • Vitamin A: 65% DV
  • Calcium: 15% DV

This salad delivers over a full day’s worth of vitamin C from kiwi, plus spinach is loaded with vitamins K and A for a seriously nutritious light meal.

Notes:

  • Seriously, serve this immediately after dressing or it’ll get watery and wilted
  • Ripe but firm kiwis work best—mushy ones fall apart and make the salad wet
  • Fresh baby spinach tastes way better than mature spinach for salads
  • Toast your almonds for 2 minutes in a dry pan if you want extra flavor
  • Don’t overdress—you want lightly coated ingredients, not a soggy salad

Storage Tips:

  • Best served fresh—don’t make ahead
  • Store components separately if prepping in advance
  • Dress only what you’ll eat immediately
  • Leftover undressed spinach keeps for 2-3 days in the fridge
  • Kiwi slices oxidize quickly, so slice them right before assembling

Serving Suggestions:

  • Light Lunch: Serve with crusty bread and soup for a simple meal
  • Dinner Side: Pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish
  • Brunch Buffet: Part of a salad bar with other fresh options
  • Main Course: Add grilled shrimp, chicken, or chickpeas for a complete meal

Mix It Up (Recipe Variations):

  • Candied Almond Kiwi Salad: Toss almonds with honey and salt before adding for sweet-salty crunch
  • Strawberry Version: Add sliced strawberries alongside kiwi for more berry flavor
  • Protein-Packed Kiwi Salad: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a complete meal
  • Simple Spinach Kiwi: Skip the feta for a dairy-free version that’s still delicious

What Makes This Recipe Special:

This light spinach and kiwi salad demonstrates how unexpected ingredient combinations can transform everyday salads into something memorable. The pairing of peppery baby spinach with sweet-tart kiwi creates a flavor contrast that keeps each bite interesting, while the textural variety—crisp greens, juicy fruit, crunchy almonds, creamy cheese—engages multiple senses at once. Unlike heavy, mayo-based salads, this version feels light and energizing while still being satisfying, proving that the best salads celebrate fresh ingredients rather than drowning them in dressing.