Strawberry Spinach Salad

Strawberry Spinach Salad: A Refreshing Symphony of Sweet & Savory Flavors 🍓🥗✨

1. Introduction

Looking for a vibrant, nutritious, and delicious salad that’s perfect for any occasion? This Strawberry Spinach Salad recipe is a delightful blend of fresh baby spinach, juicy strawberries, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy pecans, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a side dish, or bringing it to your next potluck, this salad is sure to impress with its burst of colors and flavors. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats—making it as good for your body as it is for your taste buds!

If you love fresh, healthy salads, you might also enjoy our Spinach and Feta Egg Muffins for a protein-packed breakfast option or our Green Tea Smoothie with Spinach for another great way to enjoy leafy greens.

2. Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh baby spinach leaves – packed with iron and vitamins
• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced – look for ripe, fragrant berries
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese – or try goat cheese for variation
• ½ cup pecans, toasted and chopped – adds wonderful crunch
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional) – for a mild bite
• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar – the base of our tangy dressing
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – use high quality for best flavor
• 1 tbsp honey – balances the vinegar’s acidity
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard – adds depth to the dressing
• Salt and black pepper to taste – essential seasoning

For more ingredient inspiration, check out our Roasted Chickpeas recipe for a crunchy salad topper alternative.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

Start by washing the baby spinach thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. This step is crucial for food safety and texture. Gently pat the leaves dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner – excess water will dilute your dressing. Place the prepared spinach in a large salad bowl, giving yourself plenty of room to toss the ingredients later.

If you’re looking for more ways to use spinach, try our Chickpea and Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes for a hearty vegetarian meal.

Step 2: Slice the Strawberries

Rinse the strawberries under cool water, then gently pat them dry. Remove the green tops (hulling) using a paring knife or strawberry huller. Slice them into uniform pieces – about ¼-inch thick works well. The sweetness of fresh strawberries pairs perfectly with the earthy spinach, creating a balanced flavor profile that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

For another delicious way to enjoy berries, try our Frozen Yogurt Bark with Mixed Berries for a healthy dessert option.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Add the sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, toasted pecans, and red onion (if using) to the bowl with the spinach. The combination of textures here is key – creamy feta, crunchy pecans, juicy strawberries, and tender spinach create a delightful mouthfeel. Toss gently with clean hands or salad tongs to combine all the ingredients evenly without bruising the delicate spinach leaves.

For more salad inspiration, check out this classic Strawberry Spinach Salad recipe from AllRecipes.

Step 4: Make the Dressing & Serve

In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified. The honey helps balance the vinegar’s acidity while the mustard helps the dressing cling to the greens. Drizzle about half the dressing over the salad and toss lightly to coat. Add more dressing to taste – you might not need it all. Serve immediately for the freshest taste and best texture!

For a complete meal, pair this salad with our Hearty London Breakfast Plate for a brunch-worthy combination.

4. Tips for the Best Strawberry Spinach Salad

• Use fresh, ripe strawberries – they should be fragrant and bright red for the best sweetness and texture.
• Toast the pecans lightly in a dry pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant – this enhances their natural oils and crunch.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute feta with avocado or dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Add protein-packed ingredients like grilled chicken or shrimp to make this a complete meal.
• If making ahead, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving to prevent wilting.
• Consider adding fresh herbs like mint or basil for an extra flavor dimension.

5. Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap the nuts: Try walnuts, almonds, or candied pecans for a different crunch profile.
• Add fruit: Blueberries, raspberries, or mandarin oranges work beautifully with the existing flavors.
• Boost protein: Toss in grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
• Change the cheese: Goat cheese or gorgonzola can replace feta for a bolder taste experience.
• Vary the dressing: Try a poppy seed dressing or a citrus vinaigrette for different flavor profiles.
• Add grains: Quinoa or farro can turn this into a more substantial grain salad.

6. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & easy – Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal prep work!
• Nutrient-dense – Packed with vitamins A, C, K, and healthy fats from the nuts and olive oil.
• Versatile – Perfect for picnics, BBQs, weeknight dinners, or elegant gatherings.
• Beautiful presentation – The vibrant red strawberries against green spinach makes it visually stunning.
• Balanced flavors – Sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy elements in every satisfying bite.
• Seasonal flexibility – Works with spring and summer produce but can be adapted year-round.

7. Storing & Meal Prep Tips

While this Strawberry Spinach Salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep components ahead for quick assembly:

• Store washed and dried spinach in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture (lasts 2-3 days).
• Keep sliced strawberries in a separate container with a paper towel to prevent excess juice (best used within 24 hours).
• Prep the dressing up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate in a jar – shake well before using.
• Toast nuts in bulk and store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• For meal prep, layer ingredients in mason jars with dressing at the bottom for grab-and-go lunches.

For more meal prep ideas, check out our Cauliflower Fried Rice recipe that stores beautifully.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: While fresh strawberries are ideal for texture, thawed frozen strawberries can work in a pinch. Pat them dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture that could water down your salad.

Q: How long does this salad last in the fridge?
A: Once dressed, it’s best eaten immediately as the spinach wilts quickly. Undressed components stored separately last 1-2 days.

Q: Can I make this salad vegan?
A: Absolutely! Skip the feta or use a plant-based alternative, and swap honey for maple syrup in the dressing.

Q: What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?
A: Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar works, but you may need to adjust the sweetness to balance the flavor.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Certainly! Thinly sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or shredded carrots would complement the existing flavors well.

9. Conclusion

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is more than just a dish – it’s a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight side dish, a light lunch option, or a show-stopping addition to your next gathering, this recipe delivers every time. The combination of sweet strawberries, earthy spinach, creamy cheese, and crunchy nuts creates a satisfying eating experience that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

We love how versatile this salad is – it pairs beautifully with everything from grilled meats to Protein Ice Cream for dessert. The vibrant colors make it appealing to kids and adults alike, while the balanced nutrition makes it a smart choice for health-conscious eaters.

Give this recipe a try and let the sweet strawberries, crisp spinach, and tangy dressing win you over—one delicious bite at a time! And if you’re looking for more seasonal inspiration, our Roasted Delicata Squash makes another wonderful autumnal side dish. 🍓🥗💚

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