Looking for a fresh, vibrant, and healthy salad that’s bursting with flavors? This Strawberry Spinach Salad is the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and savory ingredients, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a side for grilled chicken, or a potluck favorite, this salad is packed with wholesome goodness. The crisp baby spinach, juicy strawberries, crunchy nuts, creamy cheese, and a delightful homemade dressing make it a must-try. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Let’s dive into this refreshing recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- Baby spinach – Fresh and tender leaves are best for this salad.
- Strawberries – Choose ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
- Red onion – Adds a mild tangy crunch.
- Feta cheese – Offers a creamy, slightly salty contrast.
- Pecans or walnuts – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Dried cranberries – Enhance the sweetness with a chewy texture.
Optional Additions:
- Grilled chicken – For added protein.
- Avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
- Blue cheese or goat cheese – Alternative to feta for a different flavor.
- Sunflower seeds – For extra crunch.
- Bacon bits – A smoky addition.
- Balsamic glaze drizzle – Enhances the tangy-sweet contrast.
How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad
Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash and dry the spinach thoroughly.
- Hull and slice the strawberries.
- Thinly slice the red onion.
- Toast the nuts for added crunch and depth of flavor.
Make the Dressing
Whisk together:
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, red onion, feta, nuts, and dried cranberries.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve Immediately
- Plate the salad and serve fresh. Optionally, top with grilled chicken or avocado.
What to Serve with Strawberry Spinach Salad
This salad pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken or shrimp
- Crusty bread or garlic bread
- Quiche or frittata for brunch
- A light soup like tomato bisque
- A refreshing glass of white wine or lemonade
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick and easy: Ready in just 10 minutes!
✔ Nutritious and delicious: Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats.
✔ Perfect for any occasion: Great for brunch, lunch, or a side dish at dinner.
✔ Versatile: Can be customized with different nuts, cheese, and proteins.
✔ Dressing made from scratch: No preservatives, just fresh ingredients.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but store the dressing separately and toss everything together just before serving.
What’s the best cheese substitute for feta? Goat cheese, blue cheese, or even shaved Parmesan work well.
Can I use frozen strawberries? Fresh is best, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
How can I make this salad vegan? Skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative, and replace honey with maple syrup in the dressing.
My Experience with Strawberry Spinach Salad
A while ago, I was looking for healthy, quick meal ideas, and I stumbled upon the idea of Strawberry Spinach Salad. At first, I was a bit hesitant, since I’m not really used to mixing fruit with veggies in a salad. But since I was craving something fresh for the summer, I decided to give it a try.
To my surprise, it was delicious! The strawberries added a lovely sweetness, and the spinach gave it a refreshing and slightly savory taste. When I tossed in some toasted nuts, it completely transformed the salad, making it even better. The first time I made it, I also added feta cheese, and it was perfect because the salty cheese balanced out the sweetness of the strawberries.
My Tip:
If you’re not used to putting fruit in salads, this recipe is a great place to start! The balance of sweet and tangy flavors is amazing. I personally love to add a little honey or lemon juice to the dressing to enhance the flavors. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
After trying it, this salad quickly became one of my go-to meals, especially on hot days. It’s easy, quick, and still healthy and packed with nutrients.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful, healthy dish that’s easy to make and full of vibrant flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick lunch or a special gathering, its refreshing taste and beautiful presentation will impress everyone. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, nutrient-packed salad that’s as good for you as it is tasty!
Strawberry Spinach Salad
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries sliced
- ¼ red onion thinly sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- ¼ cup pecans or walnuts toasted
- ¼ cup dried cranberries optional
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup for vegan option
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash and dry the spinach thoroughly
- Hull and slice the strawberries.
- Thinly slice the red onion.
- Toast the nuts for added crunch and depth of flavor.
Whisk together:
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, red onion, feta, nuts, and dried cranberries.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve Immediately
- Plate the salad and serve fresh. Optionally, top with grilled chicken or avocado.
Notes
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
- Dressing Tip: Shake the dressing in a jar for easy mixing and storage.
- Make it Vegan: Swap out the feta for avocado or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Best Served Fresh: Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor!