Spinach & Strawberry Salad

Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, this Spinach & Strawberry Salad is the perfect way to brighten up any meal. Combining tender baby spinach leaves with juicy, sweet strawberries, crunchy toasted walnuts, and tangy feta cheese, this salad strikes a delightful balance between sweet and savory. A splash of balsamic vinaigrette ties all the ingredients together, making each bite an explosion of refreshing tastes and satisfying textures. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a stunning side dish, or a healthy snack, this Spinach & Strawberry Salad is a must-have in your recipe collection.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Spinach & Strawberry Salad isn’t just your average leafy greens dish. It’s a celebration of fresh flavors that come together effortlessly to create something truly special. The combination of sweet strawberries and nutty walnuts with creamy feta cheese adds layers of flavor and texture that keep you coming back for more. Plus, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

One of the best parts about this salad is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. If you’re a fan of mixing fresh fruit in your meals, you might also enjoy the refreshing Strawberry Mango Smoothie as a complementary treat.

Whether you’re a seasoned salad lover or just looking to add more greens to your diet, this Spinach & Strawberry Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and nutritious option that will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried – baby spinach works best for tender leaves
• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced – ripe and juicy for maximum sweetness
• 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted – brings a lovely crunch and nutty flavor
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled – adds a creamy and tangy contrast
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced – for a sharp bite
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette – choose a good-quality, well-balanced dressing
• Salt and pepper to taste

How To Make Spinach & Strawberry Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

Start by thoroughly washing your fresh spinach leaves to remove any dirt or grit. Use a salad spinner to dry the leaves completely, or pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Dry spinach helps the dressing stick better and prevents the salad from becoming soggy.

Step 2: Slice the Strawberries and Red Onion

Hull the strawberries by removing their green tops and slice them thinly to ensure each bite has a perfect balance of sweetness. Thinly slice the red onion so that its sharpness complements the sweetness of the strawberries without overpowering the salad.

Step 3: Toast the Walnuts

Place the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and slightly darker in color. Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to your Spinach & Strawberry Salad.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, red onions, and toasted walnuts. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly without bruising the delicate spinach leaves.

Step 5: Add the Feta Cheese and Dressing

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad and drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette on top. Toss once more gently to coat all the ingredients with the dressing. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Serve the salad right away to enjoy the fresh textures and flavors at their best. This Spinach & Strawberry Salad makes a wonderful light lunch or a colorful side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using wet spinach leaves – excess moisture can make the salad soggy and dilute the dressing.
• Skipping the toasting of walnuts – raw walnuts lack the depth of flavor and crunch that toasted walnuts provide.
• Adding dressing too early – dress the salad just before serving to keep the spinach fresh and crisp.
• Using underripe strawberries – they won’t provide the sweetness needed to balance the savory feta and tangy vinaigrette.
• Overcrowding the bowl when tossing – gently mix the ingredients to avoid bruising the spinach and strawberries.

Dietary Options

• Nut-Free: Replace walnuts with pumpkin seeds or roasted chickpeas for crunch.
• Vegan: Substitute feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or omit entirely.
• Low-Carb/Keto: This salad fits well into low-carb diets, just ensure the vinaigrette has no added sugars.
• Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; just verify the balsamic vinaigrette ingredients.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.

Seasonal Variations

• Summer: Add fresh herbs like basil or mint for an aromatic twist.
• Fall: Swap strawberries for sliced apples or pears and use pecans instead of walnuts.
• Winter: Use roasted beets or pomegranate seeds to keep the salad vibrant and seasonal.
• Spring: Mix in peas or asparagus tips for fresh seasonal greens.

Storage & Make-Ahead

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as spinach tends to wilt quickly once dressed. However, you can prepare the ingredients in advance to save time:

• Wash and dry spinach thoroughly, then store it in an airtight container lined with paper towels in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Slice strawberries and onions and keep them in separate containers in the fridge for 1-2 days.
• Toast walnuts ahead of time and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Keep the feta cheese and balsamic vinaigrette separate until ready to serve.

When ready to serve, toss all the ingredients with the dressing just before eating to maintain the crispness and freshness of the salad.

FAQ

Can I use baby kale instead of spinach in this salad?

Absolutely! Baby kale is a great alternative that adds a slightly heartier texture and a mild, earthy flavor. Just make sure to wash and dry the kale thoroughly, and consider massaging it lightly with a bit of olive oil and salt to soften the leaves before assembling the salad.

How do I make my own balsamic vinaigrette?

Making your own balsamic vinaigrette is simple. Whisk together 3 tablespoons of good-quality balsamic vinegar, 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the sweetness and acidity according to your preference.

Can this salad be turned into a meal prep option?

While the salad itself is best served fresh, you can prep individual components ahead of time. Store the spinach, strawberries, onions, and walnuts separately and combine them with dressing right before eating. Adding a protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas can make it a more substantial meal prep option.

What are some good dishes to serve alongside this Spinach & Strawberry Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with light proteins such as grilled chicken, seared salmon, or baked tofu. You might enjoy it alongside a comforting grain dish like quinoa or couscous. For a colorful, vegetable-forward meal, consider pairing it with the Roasted Purple Cauliflower Salad for an exciting combination.

Conclusion

This Spinach & Strawberry Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that shines with simplicity and flavor. Its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes makes it an irresistible choice for any occasion. Whether you need a quick lunch, a stunning side, or a healthy snack, this salad is easy to make and sure to please. With its versatile nature and crowd-pleasing ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. Get ready to enjoy a deliciously refreshing salad that brings the best of fresh produce to your table!

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