Now, let’s dive into how to make this Spinach Blueberry Salad—it’s so simple, and I know you’ll feel confident and excited as you whip it up!

1. Wash and Dry the Spinach:
   Start by rinsing your fresh spinach leaves thoroughly. I usually give mine a good rinse in a colander, then pat them dry with a clean towel or spin them in a salad spinner. You want to make sure the leaves are dry so the dressing will stick, not slide off.
2. Prepare the Blueberries:
   Gently rinse the blueberries under cold water, and let them dry off a little. Don’t worry about overdoing it—blueberries are delicate, so just be gentle when handling them. They should be plump and juicy, ready to burst with flavor in each bite.
3. Toast the Almonds:
   To get that extra flavor boost, toast the almonds in a dry pan over medium heat. Stir them often so they don’t burn—about 3-4 minutes should do the trick. You’ll know they’re ready when they smell fragrant and look golden brown. This step is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor!
4. Slice the Onion:
   If you’re adding onion, thinly slice it into rings. If red onion isn’t your thing, feel free to skip this step or use a little bit of sweet onion instead. The onion adds a sharp bite that pairs well with the sweetness of the blueberries.
5. Assemble the Salad:
   In a large bowl, toss the spinach, blueberries, toasted almonds, and onion (if using) together. Give everything a gentle mix so the spinach doesn’t get bruised, but everything is nicely distributed.
6. Add the Cheese:
   Sprinkle the feta or goat cheese over the top. The cheese adds just the right amount of creaminess to balance the crispness of the spinach and the sweetness of the blueberries. Don’t be shy—add as much or as little as you like!
7. Drizzle the Dressing:
   Now it’s time for the dressing. Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad, and give everything a light toss to coat. The balsamic dressing will add that perfect tang, cutting through the sweetness of the fruit and the richness of the cheese.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
   You can serve the salad immediately, or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Either way, it’s going to be amazing. Serve it as a side or top it with your favorite protein for a light, healthy meal.