Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Gorgeous summer Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. This salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for lunches, picnics, or as a delightful side dish. The combination of fresh strawberries, creamy avocado, and tangy feta paired with a homemade strawberry balsamic vinaigrette creates a memorable dining experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and Fresh Flavors: The sweetness of strawberries combined with the savory elements makes each bite refreshing.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats to keep you energized.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, this salad is perfect for busy days.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or as an accompaniment to your favorite protein.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add or swap ingredients based on personal preferences or seasonal availability.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar or small bowl
• Non-stick pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar or small bowl: Perfect for mixing the dressing without making a mess.
• Non-stick pan: Ideal for toasting almonds evenly without them sticking or burning.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to toss all the ingredients together without spilling.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 package (5 ounces) organic spinach
• 8 ounces strawberries, halved (about 2 cups halved strawberries)
• 1 large avocado, sliced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup feta crumbles
• ⅓ cup raw sliced almonds
• ¼ cup chopped shelled roasted pistachios

For the Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette

• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, grated or finely minced
• ½ teaspoon dijon mustard
• ½ tablespoon strawberry jam (or jam of choice)
• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a mason jar or small bowl, add all of the dressing ingredients. Shake or mix well to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if necessary.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

Toast the almonds on the stovetop by adding them to a non-stick pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally for 2–5 minutes until they turn slightly golden brown. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Add spinach to a large mixing bowl. Layer on the halved strawberries, avocado slices, red onion, feta crumbles, toasted almonds, and chopped pistachios.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

You can either add the dressing now and toss everything together or serve it on the side for individual portions. Top each salad bowl with extra toasted almonds and drizzle each serving with about one-fourth of the dressing. Enjoy!

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

This vibrant strawberry spinach salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a refreshing side dish. Here are some creative ways to serve it.

For a Light Lunch

• Enjoy this salad on its own for a quick, nutritious meal. Pair it with whole grain bread or crackers for added texture.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish to balance the flavors. The sweetness of the strawberries complements savory proteins beautifully.

At a Picnic

• Pack the salad in individual containers for an outdoor gathering. It’s easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Combine just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

How to Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

To ensure your strawberry spinach salad is at its best, follow these tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh, organic spinach and ripe strawberries for maximum flavor.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust the dressing with more balsamic vinegar or jam if you prefer a sweeter or tangier taste.
• Add Crunch: Toasted almonds add delightful crunch; make sure they are slightly golden but not burnt.
• Layer Ingredients: Layering helps maintain texture; place denser items like feta and nuts on top of softer ingredients like spinach.
• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve this salad right after preparing to enjoy its freshness.
• Customize Toppings: Feel free to mix in other toppings like grilled chicken, walnuts, or different cheeses based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Pairing side dishes with your strawberry spinach salad can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers add protein and complement the salad’s fruity flavors.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a nutty taste that pairs well.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances the tartness of the strawberries.
4. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread makes for a comforting addition that contrasts nicely with the fresh salad.
5. Caprese Salad: A classic Caprese salad provides creamy mozzarella that goes perfectly with the tangy balsamic dressing.
6. Veggie Platter: A colorful platter of raw veggies offers crunch and variety while keeping things healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can overwhelm the flavors. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
• Using unripe strawberries: Unripe strawberries can be tart and not as flavorful. Choose ripe, sweet strawberries for the best taste in your salad.
• Skipping the toasting step: Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and adds crunch. Don’t skip this step; it makes a big difference!
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using wilted or old spinach can ruin the dish. Always choose fresh, organic spinach for the best texture and flavor.
• Not balancing flavors: Make sure to balance sweet, tangy, and salty elements in your salad. Adjust ingredients like feta or balsamic to achieve harmony.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Freezing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the texture of spinach and strawberries.
• If you must freeze components, store the dressing separately in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salad on a baking sheet without dressing and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish. Heat in short intervals of 15-20 seconds until warmed through but not soggy.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, warm gently while stirring, avoiding overcooking any ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time but keep the dressing separate until serving for best results.

What other nuts can I use in this salad?

You can substitute almonds or pistachios with walnuts or pecans if you prefer different flavors or textures.

How should I customize my Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic?

Feel free to add additional toppings like grilled chicken, quinoa, or different cheeses for added protein and variety.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! The Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for various dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

The Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough to suit many occasions. With its combination of sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy nuts, this salad offers an explosion of flavors. Feel free to customize it by adding proteins or other seasonal fruits. Enjoy creating your unique version!

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Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of our Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic. This delightful dish combines fresh, juicy strawberries with crisp organic spinach, creamy avocado, tangy feta, and crunchy nuts, all drizzled with a homemade strawberry balsamic vinaigrette. It’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrients, perfect for light lunches, picnics, or as a refreshing side dish at any gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 package (5 ounces) organic spinach
• 8 ounces strawberries, halved (about 2 cups halved strawberries)
• 1 large avocado, sliced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup feta crumbles
• ⅓ cup raw sliced almonds
• ¼ cup chopped shelled roasted pistachios
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, grated or finely minced
• ½ teaspoon dijon mustard
• ½ tablespoon strawberry jam (or jam of choice)
• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. In a mason jar or small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dijon mustard, strawberry jam, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk until well mixed.
2. Toast sliced almonds in a non-stick pan over medium heat for 2–5 minutes until golden brown.
3. In a large mixing bowl, layer organic spinach, halved strawberries, avocado slices, red onion, feta crumbles, toasted almonds, and pistachios.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad or serve it on the side. Toss gently to combine before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 270mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 15mg