Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe

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Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe – Fresh, Sweet & Perfect for Any Occasion

This **Strawberry Spinach Salad** is a refreshing, vibrant dish that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the earthiness of spinach, the crunch of toasted nuts, and the tangy bite of feta cheese. Tossed in a homemade balsamic vinaigrette, this salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for summer gatherings, quick lunches, or as a side for grilled meats, this easy salad is loaded with nutrients and flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this **sweet and savory strawberry spinach salad** will be a favorite!
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 6 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 pint (about 2 cups) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese)
  • ½ cup toasted pecans or sliced almonds

For the Balsamic Dressing:

  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Garnishing (Optional):

  • Chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra nutrition
  • Drizzle of balsamic glaze

Instructions

Making the Salad:

  1. Prepare the spinach: Wash and dry the spinach thoroughly.
  2. Slice the strawberries: Remove the stems and slice the strawberries into thin pieces.
  3. Toast the nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans or almonds for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant.
  4. Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, add the spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, toasted nuts, and crumbled feta cheese.

Making the Balsamic Dressing:

  1. Whisk the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Taste and adjust: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add more honey. If you like it tangier, increase the vinegar.

Assembling the Salad:

  1. Drizzle the dressing: Pour the balsamic dressing over the salad.
  2. Toss gently: Use tongs to toss everything together until evenly coated.

Serving:

  1. Transfer to a serving plate or bowl.
  2. Garnish with chia seeds or a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired.
  3. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Tips for the Best Strawberry Spinach Salad

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh strawberries and spinach make a huge difference in flavor.
  • Toast the Nuts: This brings out their natural oils and enhances the crunch.
  • Don’t Overdress: Start with half the dressing, toss, and add more if needed.
  • Make it a Meal: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

Creative Variations

  • Berry Mix: Add blueberries or raspberries for extra fruitiness.
  • Crunchy Add-Ons: Toss in sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
  • Cheese Swap: Use goat cheese or blue cheese instead of feta.
  • Vegan Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey and skip the cheese.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! Store the ingredients separately and assemble just before serving. How do I keep strawberries fresh in the salad? Slice them just before serving to prevent them from getting mushy. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Can I use a different dressing? Absolutely! Poppy seed dressing, lemon vinaigrette, or honey mustard all work great. This **Strawberry Spinach Salad** is fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor. Whether for a light lunch, side dish, or summer potluck, it’s a delicious and nutritious choice. Try it today and enjoy the perfect combination of sweet and savory in every bite!

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