Strawberry Spinach Salad

A refreshing and vibrant salad that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the earthy flavor of spinach, complemented by crunchy nuts and a tangy balsamic dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or a delightful side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.​Southern Living+1EatingWell+1
• Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats.​
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with various add-ins to suit your taste.​
• Flavorful: The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors creates a delightful eating experience.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh baby spinach​Log in or sign up to view
• Strawberries​
• Nuts (such as pecans, almonds, or walnuts)​EatingWell+2Southern Living+2Julia’s Album+2
• Feta cheese​wellplated.com+4Reddit+4Log in or sign up to view+4
• Red onion​wellplated.com+1Two Spoons+1
• Balsamic vinegar​Reddit+2Julia’s Album+2Allrecipes+2
• Honey​EatingWell+2Southern Living+2Le Guardian+2
• Olive oil​
• Poppy seeds​Reddit+10wellplated.com+10Allrecipes+10
• Dijon mustard​
• Salt and pepper​

Directions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.​
2. Toast the Nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the nuts until fragrant and slightly golden, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.​Two Spoons
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.​
4. Add the Nuts: Once cooled, add the toasted nuts to the salad.​
5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.​
6. Serve Immediately: Enjoy this refreshing salad as a standalone meal or as a side dish.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4​
• Prep Time: 10 minutes​Reddit+2Two Spoons+2Reddit+2
• Total Time: 15 minutes​

Variations

• Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken or shrimp for a more filling meal.​
• Cheese Options: Substitute feta with goat cheese or Gorgonzola for a different flavor profile.​
• Nut-Free: Omit nuts or replace them with toasted sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.​
• Fruity Twist: Add blueberries or sliced apples for additional sweetness and texture.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, store the dressing separately and add just before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting.​
• Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.​

FAQs

How do I prevent the spinach from becoming soggy?

To keep the spinach crisp, store the dressing separately and toss it with the salad just before serving.​

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before using.​

What can I use instead of poppy seeds in the dressing?

If you don’t have poppy seeds, you can omit them or substitute with sesame seeds for a similar texture.​Log in or sign up to view

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly. Ensure that the cheese used is suitable for vegetarians.​

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor. Frozen strawberries may become too soft and watery when thawed.​

How can I make this salad vegan?

To make the salad vegan, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative, and substitute honey with maple syrup in the dressing.​

What other dressings pair well with this salad?

A raspberry vinaigrette or a citrus-based dressing can also complement the flavors of this salad.​

Can I add grains to this salad?

Yes, adding cooked quinoa or farro can enhance the nutritional value and make the salad more filling.​

How do I toast nuts without burning them?

Toast nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.​

What can I use instead of balsamic vinegar in the dressing?

Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can be used as substitutes, though the flavor profile will change slightly.​

Conclusion

This 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Its quick preparation time and versatility allow for various adaptations to suit different dietary preferences. Enjoy this refreshing salad as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish at your next gathering.

Print