Polyphenol-Packed Berry & Grape Salad with Honey-Lemon Dressing

Serves 4. 

Ingredients: 

For the Almond Feta:

• 1 cup raw almonds, soaked overnight and drained
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 2-3 tablespoons water (as needed)

For the Salad:

• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1 cup red grapes, halved
• ½ cup pomegranate seeds (arils)
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

For the Honey-Lemon Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon raw honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Pinch of sea salt
• Pinch of black pepper

Instructions: 

1. Make the almond feta (can be made 3-5 days ahead): Drain soaked almonds and add to a food processor with lemon juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and nutritional yeast. Process until smooth and creamy, adding water 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach a thick, spreadable consistency. Transfer to a container lined with cheesecloth, press down firmly, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up. Once set, crumble into chunks. If you don't have time to make almond feta, use store-bought plant-based feta or simply omit—the salad is still delicious and polyphenol-rich without it!
   
2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, chopped mint, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Set aside to let flavors meld.
   
3. Lightly toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant. This enhances their flavor and can increase polyphenol content.
   
4. In a large serving bowl, combine spinach, blueberries, sliced strawberries, halved grapes, pomegranate seeds, and thinly sliced red onion.
   
5. Add toasted walnuts and crumbled almond feta. Drizzle with honey-lemon dressing and toss gently to combine.
   
6. Top with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.

Nutritional Breakdown per serving:

*Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and preparation methods used.

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