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Have you ever craved a salad that’s bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors yet feels like a treat rather than a chore? That’s exactly what this Strawberry Spinach Salad brings to the table—sweet strawberries mingling with crisp spinach leaves in a delightful harmony. I’ve been making this Strawberry Spinach Salad for years, especially during summer barbecues, and it never fails to impress. It’s simple, refreshing, and oh-so-addictive.
The first time I served this Strawberry Spinach Salad at a family gathering, everyone raved about how the juicy strawberries cut through the earthy spinach, creating this perfect balance. What I love most is how customizable it is; you can tweak it to your liking without losing that wow factor. If you’re looking for a healthy side that doesn’t skimp on taste, stick around—I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for the ultimate Strawberry Spinach Salad.
In my experience, starting your meal with this Strawberry Spinach Salad sets a light, invigorating tone. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of seasonal produce. Let’s dive into why this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. For more salad inspirations, check out our Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe or the Jennifer Aniston Salad Recipe.
Key Takeaways:
- This Strawberry Spinach Salad is packed with antioxidants from fresh strawberries and nutrient-rich spinach for a health boost.
- Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s a time-saver for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- The sweet-tangy dressing enhances the natural flavors, making every bite irresistible.
- Use ripe strawberries and fresh spinach for the best texture and taste in your Strawberry Spinach Salad.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days to keep it crisp.
Why You’ll Adore This Strawberry Spinach Salad
Nutrient Powerhouse: This salad combines the vitamin C from strawberries with the iron in spinach, giving you a superfood combo that’s great for your immune system. I always feel energized after eating it, and it’s a sneaky way to get more greens into your diet. You’ll love how it supports your wellness goals without feeling like a sacrifice.
Quick and Effortless: Who doesn’t want a delicious meal that comes together fast? In my kitchen, this is my go-to for potlucks because it’s no-fuss prep. Let’s be honest, with busy lives, recipes like this Strawberry Spinach Salad make healthy eating accessible and fun.
Explosive Flavor Profile: The contrast of sweet strawberries and nutty additions creates a symphony on your palate. I’ve experimented with various dressings, but the classic one here elevates the entire dish. It’s fresh, zesty, and utterly addictive—perfect for any season.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a light lunch or a side for grilled chicken, this dish fits seamlessly. What I find interesting is how it pairs so well with other favorites; try it alongside our BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe. You won’t be able to get enough of its charm.
Essential Ingredients for Strawberry Spinach Salad
Fresh Spinach: The base of this salad, fresh spinach provides a tender, slightly earthy leaf that’s loaded with vitamins A and K. I always rinse it thoroughly to ensure it’s crisp and free of grit. In the Strawberry Spinach Salad, it balances the sweetness of the fruit beautifully, making each forkful refreshing and substantial.
Ripe Strawberries: These juicy gems add a burst of natural sweetness and vibrant color to the mix. Look for firm, red strawberries at their peak ripeness for the best flavor. Slicing them thinly allows their juices to mingle with the dressing, enhancing the overall Strawberry Spinach Salad experience.
Feta Cheese and Toasted Almonds: Crumbled feta brings a creamy, tangy note, while toasted almonds offer crunch and nuttiness. These elements prevent the salad from being too one-note. Together, they elevate your Strawberry Spinach Salad into a textural delight that’s both satisfying and sophisticated.
How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad
Prepare the Greens and Fruits
Start by washing a large bowlful of fresh spinach leaves under cool water, then pat them dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture—this keeps your Strawberry Spinach Salad from getting soggy. Next, hull and slice about two cups of ripe strawberries into thin pieces, letting their natural juices shine. In my experience, adding a thinly sliced red onion at this stage introduces a subtle sharpness that complements the sweetness. Toss everything gently in a big salad bowl, being careful not to bruise the delicate spinach.
Make the Dressing
Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small jar until emulsified—shake it vigorously for that creamy texture. I like to taste and adjust the sweetness, as it ties the whole dish together. Drizzle just enough over the salad to coat lightly, as you can always add more. The aroma alone will have you eager to dig in, with the tangy notes promising a flavor explosion.
Assemble and Serve
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and toasted slivered almonds over the top of your Strawberry Spinach Salad for that perfect crunch and creaminess. Gently toss once more to distribute the toppings evenly, ensuring every bite has a bit of everything. Let it sit for a minute so the flavors meld—it’s ready when the strawberries glisten with dressing. Serve immediately for the freshest taste, and watch it disappear at your next meal.
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach leaves, washed and dried
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
- For the dressing: 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, salt and pepper to taste
Strawberry Spinach Salad Instructions
- Wash and dry the spinach leaves thoroughly. Slice the strawberries and red onion if using.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until well combined.
- In a large salad bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, onion, feta, and almonds. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.
- Serve immediately for best results.
Pro Tips for the Best Strawberry Spinach Salad
Choose Peak-Season Produce: Opt for strawberries that are bright red and fragrant to maximize sweetness in your Strawberry Spinach Salad.
Toast Nuts Lightly: A quick toast in a dry pan enhances their flavor without burning—aim for golden edges.
Dress Just Before Serving: This keeps the spinach crisp and prevents sogginess in the Strawberry Spinach Salad.
You Must Know
- This Strawberry Spinach Salad is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making it inclusive for many diets.
- Strawberries are best organic to avoid pesticides, boosting the salad’s health benefits.
- The dressing can be made ahead and stored for up to a week in the fridge.
- Pairing with protein like grilled chicken turns it into a full meal effortlessly.
How to Store Strawberry Spinach Salad
To keep your Strawberry Spinach Salad fresh, store undressed components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days. If already dressed, consume within a day as the spinach wilts quickly. I recommend reviving leftovers by adding fresh dressing and a squeeze of lemon. This way, it stays as delicious as the first serving.
Customizing Your Strawberry Spinach Salad
Feel free to swap feta for goat cheese or add avocado for creaminess in your Strawberry Spinach Salad. For a nut-free version, use sunflower seeds instead of almonds. If you want more inspiration, try elements from our Healthy Mango Salad Recipe. These tweaks keep it exciting while staying true to the original vibe.
What to Serve with Strawberry Spinach Salad
This salad shines alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal, adding freshness to richer proteins. Pair it with crusty bread to sop up the dressing, or include it in a Mediterranean spread like our 7-Day Mediterranean Diet Meal Plan. For drinks, a crisp white wine or iced tea complements the fruity notes perfectly. It’s versatile enough for picnics or weeknight dinners, always elevating the table.
15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
Strawberry Spinach Salad is a healthy, vibrant, and easy-to-make recipe that comes together in 15 minutes! Featuring Feta cheese, pecans, and a simple Balsamic dressing, this salad will make a perfect side dish for any weeknight dinner. It is also a crowd-pleaser for many holiday occasions, picnics, potlucks, and other friends and family gatherings!
Timing
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 01 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 02 1/4 cup honey ((or brown sugar))
- 03 10 oz baby spinach ((fresh))
- 04 3 cups strawberries ((cleaned and hulled, sliced))
- 05 1 cup blueberries
- 06 1/3 cup feta cheese ((crumbled))
- 07 1 cup pecans ((toasted, some of them chopped))
FILED UNDER:
NUTRITION FACTS (PER SERVING)
Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Spinach Salad
Can I make Strawberry Spinach Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients a few hours in advance, but dress it just before serving to maintain crispness. In my experience, storing components separately works best. This keeps your Strawberry Spinach Salad tasting fresh and vibrant.
How long does Strawberry Spinach Salad last in the fridge?
Undressed, it lasts up to two days; dressed, aim for one day max to avoid wilting. Always check for freshness before eating. Proper storage ensures it stays enjoyable.
Is Strawberry Spinach Salad vegan?
Absolutely, skip the feta and use a plant-based dressing to make it vegan-friendly. It’s naturally plant-powered otherwise. This adaptation keeps all the delicious flavors intact.
What can I use instead of balsamic vinegar in Strawberry Spinach Salad?
Try apple cider vinegar for a milder tang or raspberry vinaigrette for extra fruitiness in the Strawberry Spinach Salad. Experiment to suit your taste. For a classic option, our 5-Minute Asian Sesame Dressing Recipe adds an interesting twist.
Can I add protein to Strawberry Spinach Salad?
Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make it a hearty main. Toss in about a cup per serving. It transforms the simple side into a complete meal effortlessly.
How do I make the dressing for Strawberry Spinach Salad sweeter?
Increase the honey or add a few more strawberries to the mix for natural sweetness in your Strawberry Spinach Salad. Taste as you go for balance. This tweak perfects it to your liking.
Is Strawberry Spinach Salad keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low-carb with spinach and berries in moderation, fitting keto guidelines nicely. Watch portions of fruit to stay in ketosis. It’s a refreshing option for low-carb eaters.
Can kids enjoy Strawberry Spinach Salad?
Definitely— the sweet strawberries make it appealing to little ones. Involve them in slicing the fruit for fun. It’s a great way to introduce greens playfully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Strawberry Spinach Salad that brings joy to every bite, blending simplicity with bold flavors. I’ve shared it countless times, and it always sparks smiles around the table. Give this recipe a try this weekend—you won’t regret it, and I’d love to hear how your Strawberry Spinach Salad turns out!