The sun peeked through the trees as I savored the refreshing taste of my first bite of the Best Strawberry Spinach Salad, each ingredient bursting with flavor and vitality. This vibrant salad takes just 15 minutes to prepare and works beautifully together, combining earthy spinach, sweet strawberries, and the crunch of nuts for a delightful experience.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to brighten up their lunch or dinner with something light and nutritious. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a simple weeknight meal, you can make the dressing ahead of time and store it separately to keep everything fresh until ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The delightful combination of textures makes each bite a joy.
- Fresh strawberries provide a sweet contrast to earthy spinach.
- Quick prep time means it’s ready in just 15 minutes.
- The homemade dressing elevates the flavors to the next level.
What You’ll Need
Gather these fresh ingredients to create your salad masterpiece.
For the Salad
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/3 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
- 1/2 avocado, sliced (optional)
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Use any nuts you prefer or have on hand.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Spinach can be replaced with kale.
- Feta cheese works well with goat cheese.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup.
- Avocado is optional, but adds creaminess.
How to Make It
Follow these easy steps to assemble your salad.
Wash the Spinach
Wash and thoroughly dry the baby spinach and place it in a large salad bowl.
Slice the Strawberries
Slice the strawberries and add them over the spinach.
Add the Red Onion
Thinly slice the red onion and sprinkle it into the salad.
Incorporate the Nuts
Add the chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Sprinkle the Feta Cheese
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese evenly over the salad.
Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Toss the Salad
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve with Avocado
Add sliced avocado on top if desired and serve immediately.
How to Store It
Fridge: up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, as salad wilt rapidly.
Reheat: not recommended; serve chilled.
Tips for Best Results
- Use ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness.
- Always wash spinach thoroughly to avoid grit.
- For an extra crunch, toast the nuts before adding.
- Adjust the dressing ingredients to your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair it with grilled chicken for a complete meal.
- Serve as a side dish for barbecues or picnics.
- Enjoy it as a light lunch with crusty bread.
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