Strawberry Spinach Salad

Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines fresh strawberries, baby spinach, and creamy feta cheese. It’s not only quick to prepare—taking just 15 minutes—but it also makes an excellent side for weeknight dinners, holiday celebrations, picnics, and potlucks. The addition of toasted pecans adds a crunchy texture, while a simple Balsamic dressing ties all the flavors together beautifully. This salad is sure to impress at any gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes needed, this recipe is perfect for those busy evenings.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from spinach and strawberries, it’s a healthy choice.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its vibrant colors and flavors appeal to guests of all ages.
• Versatile Dish: Suitable for various occasions—from casual lunches to festive dinners.
• Deliciously Balanced: The sweetness of the strawberries pairs perfectly with the tangy Balsamic dressing.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Strawberry Spinach Salad effortlessly, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Allows you to combine all ingredients without mess.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for making the Balsamic glaze quickly.
• Whisk: Ensures smooth mixing of the dressing ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Dressing

• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)

For the Salad

• 10 oz baby spinach (fresh)
• 3 cups strawberries (cleaned and hulled, sliced)
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1/3 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1 cup pecans (toasted, some of them chopped)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Balsamic Glaze

1. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey over medium heat.
2. Bring to a gentle boil; then reduce heat to simmer.
3. Stir frequently until the mixture thickens and reduces by about half (approximately 10 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and transfer the glaze to a heat-proof bowl to cool. The glaze will thicken further as it cools.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, add baby spinach, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss gently to combine.
2. Divide the salad into individual serving bowls.
3. Top each bowl with whole and chopped toasted pecans.
4. Drizzle each serving with balsamic glaze before serving.

Now you have a delicious Strawberry Spinach Salad that everyone will love! Enjoy this healthy treat at your next gathering or make it for yourself as a nutritious meal option any day of the week!

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad

Serving Strawberry Spinach Salad can elevate your meal and impress your guests. This colorful dish not only looks amazing but also complements a variety of main courses. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled chicken for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve alongside roasted salmon for a delightful flavor combination.

In Individual Bowls

• Present each serving in small bowls for an elegant touch at gatherings.
• Add a sprinkle of extra feta on top for added richness.

At a Buffet

• Offer it as part of a buffet spread during parties or picnics.
• Place it next to other salads for variety, enticing everyone to try it.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty baguette or artisan bread for a complete meal.
• Encourage guests to scoop the salad onto their bread for a unique twist.

How to Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad

To ensure your Strawberry Spinach Salad is always a hit, consider these tips. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture every time you make this dish.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and ripe strawberries to enhance flavor.
• Toast the pecans: Toasting brings out the nutty flavor and adds crunch; do this in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant.
• Adjust the dressing: Taste the balsamic glaze before serving; add more honey if you prefer sweetness or more vinegar for tanginess.
• Serve immediately: For the best texture, serve the salad right after assembling, as spinach can wilt if left too long with dressing.
• Add protein: To make this salad more filling, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Spinach Salad

Strawberry Spinach Salad pairs beautifully with many side dishes. These accompaniments can round out your meal and provide delicious options for your guests.

1. Grilled Chicken Breasts: Juicy and flavorful, they complement the freshness of the salad perfectly.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrition to your table.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: Light and fluffy quinoa seasoned with herbs makes a hearty addition that balances the salad’s flavors.
4. Cheesy Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread invites everyone to dig into their meal with joy.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with grains and meats offer a nutritious option that pairs well with any salad.
6. Couscous Salad: A light couscous dish mixed with herbs provides an excellent contrast to the sweetness of strawberries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Strawberry Spinach Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using stale ingredients: Freshness is key! Always use fresh spinach and strawberries to ensure vibrant flavors and textures in your salad.
• Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount of balsamic glaze and add more as needed.
• Skipping the pecans: Pecans add a delightful crunch and flavor. Don’t leave them out; they enhance the overall dish.
• Not adjusting sweetness: Depending on personal preference, you might want more or less honey in your dressing. Taste and adjust before serving.
• Forgetting to toast pecans: Toasting pecans deepens their flavor. Always toast them lightly before adding to the salad for an extra layer of taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Strawberry Spinach Salad in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Strawberry Spinach Salad

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the texture changes in spinach and strawberries.
• If you must freeze it, consider freezing only the berries, then adding fresh ingredients when ready to serve.

Reheating Strawberry Spinach Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes; be cautious not to overheat.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until warmed; stir in between sessions.
• Stovetop: In a pan, use low heat and stir gently until heated through, avoiding overcooking any ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Strawberry Spinach Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time but store the dressing separately. Combine them just before serving for optimal freshness.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta, goat cheese or even blue cheese works well as an alternative in your Strawberry Spinach Salad.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan Strawberry Spinach Salad, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar and omit feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Can I add other fruits to my Strawberry Spinach Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other seasonal fruits like raspberries, mandarin oranges, or apples for added flavor and variety.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only quick and easy to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its bright colors and flavors make it perfect as a side dish or a light meal. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite nuts or fruits. Enjoy experimenting with different variations!

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of our Strawberry Spinach Salad, a quick and nutritious dish that brings together fresh strawberries, tender baby spinach, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy toasted pecans. Perfect for any occasion—be it weeknight dinners, festive gatherings, or leisurely picnics—this salad comes together in just 15 minutes. The tangy balsamic dressing adds a delightful finishing touch that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

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Ingredients

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• 10 oz baby spinach (fresh)
• 3 cups strawberries (cleaned, hulled, sliced)
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1/3 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1 cup pecans (toasted)
• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey

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Instructions

1. To make the Balsamic glaze, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir frequently until thickened (about 10 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss together baby spinach, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and crumbled feta cheese.
3. Portion the salad into individual bowls. Top with whole and chopped toasted pecans.
4. Drizzle each serving with the cooled balsamic glaze before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 10mg