The fresh, vibrant colors of a Strawberry Spinach Salad will make your taste buds dance with joy. Imagine the sweetness of ripe strawberries mingling with earthy spinach, creating a flavor explosion that’s both refreshing and invigorating. You can practically hear the crunch of nuts and the tang of dressing harmonizing in this delightful dish.
This salad isn’t just a pretty face; it’s an emotional journey, too. I remember the first time I made this for a picnic with friends. We were so excited to dig in that we barely let it cool before devouring it! It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a light lunch. Trust me, once you try this Strawberry Spinach Salad, you’ll be counting down the days until you can make it again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Strawberry Spinach Salad is quick and easy to whip up for any occasion
- Bursting with flavor, it’s visually stunning with vibrant colors on your plate
- The combination of textures makes each bite truly enjoyable
- Plus, it pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or serves as a light meal on its own
Sharing this salad at brunch was unforgettable; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Spinach: Use tender baby spinach for a milder flavor and softer texture.
Ripe Strawberries: Choose bright red strawberries that are fragrant for maximum sweetness.
Red Onion: Thinly slice for a zesty kick without overwhelming the salad.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and tanginess that balances the sweetness of strawberries.
Walnuts or Pecans: Toasted nuts add crunch; feel free to use your favorite variety.
Balsamic Vinaigrette: A tangy dressing elevates the flavors; store-bought works fine but homemade is best!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Gather Your Ingredients: Start by collecting all your ingredients on the countertop for easy access. Ensure everything is fresh and ready to go!
Wash and Prep Spinach: Rinse baby spinach under cold water until clean. Pat dry with a paper towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
Slice Strawberries and Onions: Hull and slice strawberries into thin pieces. For red onion, cut thin slices to keep the flavor mild yet present.
Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted nuts for delightful texture.
Add Dressing and Serve: Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving to keep everything crisp. Toss gently to coat evenly.
This Strawberry Spinach Salad is sure to become your go-to dish for picnics, barbecues, or even weekday lunches! Enjoy every colorful bite while basking in compliments from friends and family alike!
This amazing strawberry spinach salad is a delightful dish that balances sweetness and freshness. You can serve it as a light lunch or a side for dinner. The flavors mingle beautifully, making it a hit at gatherings.
You Must Know
- This strawberry spinach salad is not just refreshing; it’s also packed with nutrients
- The vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing, while the combination of sweet strawberries and crunchy almonds adds an exciting twist
- Perfect for summer picnics or brunches!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by washing the spinach thoroughly to remove any grit, then slice the strawberries and prepare your dressing while letting the spinach dry. This sequence ensures everything comes together smoothly without wilting the greens.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the almonds with walnuts or sunflower seeds for added crunch. You can also drizzle some balsamic glaze on top for extra flavor or mix in feta cheese for creaminess.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To maintain freshness, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To elevate your strawberry spinach salad, use ripe strawberries for optimal sweetness and flavor balance
- Avoid over-dressing; start with a small amount and adjust as needed
- Fresh ingredients are key; always choose high-quality spinach and berries for the best taste and nutrition
Creating this salad reminds me of my best friend’s summer wedding. We made this together for her bridal shower, and everyone raved about it—not a bite was left!
FAQ
Can I make this strawberry spinach salad ahead of time?
Yes, but store the dressing separately to keep the spinach fresh.
What type of dressing works best?
A light vinaigrette complements this salad perfectly without overpowering the flavors.
Is it possible to add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas would make excellent additions for extra sustenance.
Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly balances sweet, juicy strawberries with tender baby spinach. Enhanced by the crunch of toasted nuts and the creaminess of feta cheese, this salad is a delightful addition to picnics, barbecues, or light lunches. Tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, it’s not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup ripe strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/3 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Wash and dry the baby spinach thoroughly.
- Slice strawberries and red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, red onion, feta cheese, and nuts.
- Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad bowl (approx. 150g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
