The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and I just stumbled upon my new favorite dish: Strawberry Spinach Salad. Picture this—crisp spinach leaves mingling with juicy strawberries, all drizzled with a sweet vinaigrette that dances on your taste buds. It’s like a summer picnic in a bowl that you can enjoy anytime!
This salad isn’t just a pretty face; it’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether it’s a sunny brunch or a cozy dinner party, this vibrant dish steals the show every time. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making meal prep a breeze for busy days
- The contrasting flavors of sweet strawberries and savory spinach create an unforgettable taste experience
- Its colorful presentation makes it an eye-catching addition to any dining table
- Perfect as a side or light main dish for gatherings or picnics!
I remember the first time I served this salad at a picnic; my friends couldn’t get enough! They devoured it within minutes and even asked for seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Baby Spinach: Opt for vibrant green spinach leaves; they add a refreshing crunch.
- Juicy Strawberries: Choose ripe strawberries for their natural sweetness and beautiful color.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a mild bite that complements the sweetness of strawberries.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta provides a creamy texture and salty contrast to the sweet fruit.
- Pecan Halves: Lightly toasted pecans add crunch and richness; feel free to swap them with walnuts if you prefer.
- Balsamic Vinaigrette: Use homemade or store-bought vinaigrette for an extra punch of flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: A pinch of these enhances all the flavors in your salad.
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 baby spinach thoroughly under cold water until it’s crisp. Pat dry with paper towels to avoid sogginess.
Slice the Strawberries: Hull and slice your strawberries into thin pieces, showcasing their juicy pink interiors that will entice anyone nearby.
Chop the Red Onion: Thinly slice the red onion into delicate rings; remember not to overdo it unless you want everyone crying at your dinner table!
Add Crumbled Feta and Pecans: Sprinkle your crumbled feta cheese over the salad along with the toasted pecan halves for that delightful crunch.
Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, gently toss together all ingredients until well combined, ensuring each bite has an equal share of sweetness and zest.
Drizzle with Balsamic Vinaigrette: Finally, drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over your masterpiece just before serving. Toss lightly again to coat everything evenly before presenting it proudly.
Now you have yourself a beautiful Strawberry Spinach Salad ready for enjoying at any occasion!
You Must Know
- Strawberry Spinach Salad is a vibrant dish that bursts with flavors and colors
- The combination of sweet strawberries and crisp spinach creates a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion
- Add some nuts for crunch, and enjoy the delightful textures in every bite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by washing your spinach thoroughly and drying it. Slice your strawberries while preparing the dressing to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out spinach for kale or add nuts, cheese, or grilled chicken for a heartier salad.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy within 1-2 days to maintain freshness without wilting.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; wilted spinach is never welcome at the table
- Toast nuts lightly before adding them to enhance their flavor profile significantly
- A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a delightful tang, elevating your salad to new levels
A friend once exclaimed that my Strawberry Spinach Salad was so good it could win awards! That moment made me realize how powerful fresh ingredients can be in creating memorable dishes.
FAQ
How can I make my Strawberry Spinach Salad more filling?
Add grilled chicken or quinoa for extra protein and substance.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but dress just before serving to prevent sogginess.
What dressing goes best with Strawberry Spinach Salad?
A light vinaigrette or poppy seed dressing complements the flavors beautifully.
Strawberry Spinach Salad
Strawberry Spinach Salad is a refreshing mix of vibrant spinach, sweet strawberries, and crunchy pecans, all drizzled with tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for any occasion!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- Fresh baby spinach
- Juicy strawberries
- Red onion
- Feta cheese
- Pecan halves
- Balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Wash the baby spinach thoroughly and pat dry.
- Hull and slice the strawberries into thin pieces.
- Thinly slice the red onion into delicate rings.
- In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, red onion, crumbled feta, and toasted pecans.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette just before serving and toss gently to coat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: - For added protein, consider including grilled chicken or quinoa. - Substitute spinach with kale for a different texture. - Serve immediately after dressing to maintain freshness.
