Spinach & Strawberry Salad
This Spinach & Strawberry Salad is fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor—perfect for a light lunch or stunning side dish!
Equipment
- Salad Spinner
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Dry Skillet
- Knife
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Serve the salad right away to enjoy the fresh textures and flavors at their best.
Notes
- Always dry spinach leaves thoroughly to prevent sogginess and help dressing adhere better.
- Toast walnuts to enhance their flavor and add crunchiness.
- Dress the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
- Substitute walnuts with pumpkin seeds or chickpeas for a nut-free version.
- Add grilled chicken or tofu for a protein boost and make it a complete meal.