This fruity salad mixes fresh spinach with sweet strawberries and crunchy nuts, making it colorful and delicious! A drizzle of tangy dressing ties it all together.
Every time I make this, I can’t help but snack on the strawberries first. 🍓 It’s a perfect side or light meal that’s super easy to whip up for any occasion!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is perfect for this salad because of its tender leaves. If you don’t have it, you can use arugula or mixed greens for a different flavor and texture.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries make this salad sweet and bright. If they aren’t in season, try using blueberries or raspberries instead—they’ll bring a similar pop of color and taste.
Pecans/Walnuts: I love using pecans for their rich flavor. Walnuts are a great substitute if you prefer. You could also use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy and tangy kick. If you want to skip the cheese or need a dairy-free option, consider using avocado for a buttery texture or omit it entirely.
How Do You Prepare the Perfect Salad Dressing?
Making the dressing is super simple, but it can really elevate your salad. Balsamic vinegar mixed with honey adds a nice balance of tart and sweet. Here’s how to get it just right:
- In a small bowl or jar, combine balsamic vinegar and honey (or maple syrup).
- Add olive oil while whisking to emulsify the mixture, creating a smooth dressing.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust flavors to your liking.
- If you prefer a thicker dressing, you can add a bit more honey or maple syrup.
Whisk or shake it well right before drizzling to ensure everything is combined!
How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup pecans (or walnuts), roughly chopped or whole
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a little time washing and chopping your ingredients, then mixing them all together. It’s quick, fresh, and ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spinach:
Start by rinsing the fresh baby spinach leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt. Use a salad spinner to dry them or gently pat them dry with paper towels. This helps keep your salad fresh and crispy.
2. Prepare the Strawberries and Onion:
Next, hull the strawberries by removing the green tops, then slice them into thin pieces. For the red onion, simply slice it thinly. Both will add wonderful flavors to your salad!
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the dry spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, and pecans. Gently mix everything together, so it’s well combined but be careful not to squish the strawberries!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is mixed well and the dressing is smooth. This will bring all the flavors together!
5. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly. You want to make sure everything gets a nice touch of that delicious dressing!
6. Add Feta and Serve:
If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the salad just before serving. This adds a lovely creaminess. Then, serve it immediately for the freshest taste and texture. Enjoy your tasty Strawberry Spinach Salad!
Can I Use Pre-Packaged Spinach for This Salad?
Absolutely! Pre-packaged spinach is a convenient option. Just make sure to check the expiration date and that it looks fresh. Rinse it again if you prefer, but it’s usually cleaned before packaging.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese. You can also add avocado for creaminess if you like!
Can I Prepare the Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead! However, it’s best to combine them and add the dressing right before serving to keep everything crunchy and fresh. Store the salad components separately in the fridge to maintain freshness.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Note that the spinach may wilt, and the strawberries might release moisture, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!