There’s something magical about a Strawberry Spinach Salad. Imagine the crunch of fresh spinach, the burst of sweet strawberries, and the tangy zing of a delightful dressing mingling together. This harmonious medley isn’t just a salad; it’s a celebration on your plate, perfect for those sunlit picnics or casual gatherings with friends.
When I first tried making this salad, I thought I was merely tossing greens and fruits together. Little did I know that this simple yet elegant dish would become my go-to for impressing guests and delighting taste buds. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner party, this strawberry spinach salad steals the show every time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This vibrant strawberry spinach salad offers easy preparation and amazing flavors
- The stunning colors make it visually appealing on any table
- Enjoy it as a main dish or a side, perfect for any occasion
I remember the first time I served this salad at a family gathering; the oohs and aahs from my relatives made me feel like a culinary rockstar.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Spinach: Opt for bright green, crisp leaves to ensure maximum freshness and flavor.
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Strawberries: Choose ripe, juicy strawberries that are sweet and fragrant for the best taste.
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Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp bite that balances the sweetness of the strawberries.
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Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta introduces creaminess that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
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Walnuts or Pecans: Toasted nuts provide delightful crunchiness, enhancing texture and flavor.
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Balsamic Vinaigrette: A homemade dressing brings everything together with its sweet and tangy notes.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by washing your spinach thoroughly to remove any grit. Pat dry with paper towels to maintain crispness. Slice your strawberries into halves or quarters based on preference.
Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary for balance.
Toss It All Together: In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, sliced red onion, nuts, and feta cheese. Drizzle with dressing and gently toss everything to coat without bruising the spinach.
Serve Fresh: Transfer your beautiful salad onto individual plates or serve in one big bowl at the center of your table. Garnish with extra strawberries if desired for visual appeal.
Enjoy Immediately!: This salad tastes best fresh! Ensure everyone gets their fill before it disappears—it will go quickly!
Each step brings you closer to enjoying this vibrant Strawberry Spinach Salad! With its colorful ingredients and delightful flavors, you’ll be left feeling accomplished and satisfied after making this dish. Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- This delightful strawberry spinach salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile
- You can add nuts for crunch or cheese for creaminess, making it a perfect dish for any occasion
- The vibrant colors and flavors will brighten up any meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To ensure your strawberry spinach salad shines, wash and dry your spinach first. Chop strawberries, slice red onions, and prepare the dressing while drying the greens.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this salad! Add feta cheese or walnuts for texture, or sprinkle some poppy seeds in the dressing for a sweet touch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Keep dressing separate to maintain freshness; simply mix when ready to eat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always wash your spinach thoroughly to get rid of grit
- Use ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness
- Mixing the dressing just before serving keeps everything crisp and fresh
Sharing this salad with friends led to a spontaneous picnic that turned into a memorable sunset dinner. Everyone loved how bright and fresh it tasted!
FAQ
What can I substitute if I don’t have spinach?
Kale or arugula works well as a delicious alternative to spinach in this salad.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dressing a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.
How do I prevent soggy salad?
Keep your ingredients dry and dress only when you’re ready to eat for optimal crispness.
Delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the vibrant flavors of this Strawberry Spinach Salad, where crunchy fresh spinach meets juicy strawberries, creamy feta, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any casual gathering, this colorful dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress. With its beautiful presentation and refreshing taste, it’s a fantastic addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, nuts, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinaigrette ingredients until well mixed.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine without bruising the spinach.
- Serve immediately on individual plates or in one large bowl garnished with extra strawberries if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
