When the sun starts to shine a little brighter and the days turn warmer, I find myself craving something light yet flavorful. This Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe has become my go-to dish for those sunny afternoons, bursting with vibrant colors and refreshing tastes. The moment you sink your fork into tender baby spinach topped with sweet strawberries and juicy blueberries, you can’t help but smile. Drizzled with a homemade balsamic glaze that strikes the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the palate.
Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a lively gathering with friends, this salad is a crowd-pleaser. The crunchy pecans and creamy feta tie all the elements together, making it an effortless choice for anyone looking to elevate their dining experience without fuss. Join me as I show you how to whip up this delightful dish that will leave you feeling fresh and satisfied!
Why is this Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe a must-try?
Simplicity at Its Finest: With just a few fresh ingredients, creating this salad is a breeze, even for busy home cooks.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet strawberries, juicy blueberries, and velvety feta create a harmonious blend of taste that brightens any meal.
Quick Prep Time: Ready in under 20 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into hectic weeknight schedules.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for a family dinner or a potluck, this salad guarantees smiles and compliments around the table.
Healthy and Nourishing: Low in calories yet high in nutrients, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies your cravings.
Elevate your salad game with this delicious and refreshing option that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Strawberry Spinach Salad Ingredients
• A colorful mix for tasty delight!
For the Balsamic Glaze
- Balsamic Vinegar – Adds acidity and depth to the glaze; try red wine vinegar for a different flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness to balance the tartness; use honey as an alternative for a natural twist.
For the Salad
- Baby Spinach – The mild-flavored base of the salad; substitute with mixed greens or arugula for a peppery kick.
- Strawberries – Bring natural sweetness and vibrant color; frozen strawberries can work if fresh aren’t available.
- Blueberries – Offer extra sweetness and juiciness; feel free to swap in raspberries for a change of berry flavor.
- Feta Cheese – Introduces a creamy, tangy element; for a dairy-free version, use almond or tofu feta.
- Pecans – Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor; walnuts or almonds are great alternatives for different textures.
This Strawberry Spinach Salad recipe is all about freshness and flavor with these carefully chosen ingredients!
How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad
-
Make the Balsamic Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and brown sugar; bring to a gentle boil. Allow it to simmer until reduced by half, about 10 minutes, and then cool the glaze in a heat-proof bowl.
-
Prepare the Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine baby spinach, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are mixed well together.
-
Add Toppings: Divide the salad into individual bowls or serve family-style in a larger dish. Top with a mix of whole and chopped toasted pecans for that delightful crunch.
-
Dress the Salad: Drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze over the salad according to your taste, making sure to evenly distribute the flavors across the vibrant ingredients.
Optional: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Strawberry Spinach Salad?
When looking to create a well-rounded meal, consider these delightful pairings that will enhance your dining experience.
-
Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken complements the freshness of the salad, adding protein while keeping things light and healthy.
-
Quinoa Pilaf: This fluffy, nutty side dish blends beautifully with the salad’s textures and provides a hearty, nutritious boost. Paired together, they create a rainbow of flavors that delight the senses.
-
Toasted Bread: A crusty baguette or garlic bread offers a satisfying crunch and the perfect vessel for scooping up this vibrant salad. Each bite is an invitation to savor the salad’s refreshing flavors.
-
Watermelon Feta Salad: Mixing sweet and savory, this combo mirrors the elements of your strawberry salad while introducing a new twist that’s incredibly refreshing.
-
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio perfectly pairs with the salad’s fruity notes, making every sip a celebration of summer.
-
Chocolate Mousse: For a sweet finish, a light and airy chocolate mousse provides indulgence, balancing the fruity salad with something rich and creamy to delight the palate.
-
Lemonade: Serve this zesty drink for a thirst-quenching combo that mirrors the salad’s brightness—refreshing and revitalizing on a sunny day.
These pairings create an effortlessly enjoyable dining experience that transforms your meal into a fresh burst of flavor.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Spinach Salad
-
Ripeness Matters: Choose ripe strawberries for optimal sweetness; underripe berries can lead to a disappointing flavor experience.
-
Cool the Glaze: Allow the balsamic glaze to cool completely for the best consistency; it thickens as it cools, making it easier to drizzle.
-
Toast the Nuts: Lightly toasting pecans in a dry skillet before adding them enhances their flavor and adds a warm, nutty aroma.
-
Substitution Smart: Feel free to swap feta with goat cheese for a different tang or use almond feta for a dairy-free alternative in this Strawberry Spinach Salad recipe.
-
Batch Prep Tip: Prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge; it keeps well and makes for a quick salad dressing any day of the week.
Storage Tips for Strawberry Spinach Salad
Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 1 day to keep the spinach fresh and crisp.
Dressing: Keep the homemade balsamic glaze in a separate container in the fridge for up to 1 week. This prevents sogginess in the salad and allows for future quick meals.
Freezer: It’s best to not freeze the assembled salad, as the greens and berries will lose their texture. However, you can freeze the balsamic glaze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to use the glaze, thaw it in the fridge overnight or warm it gently in a saucepan before drizzling over fresh ingredients in your next Strawberry Spinach Salad recipe.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Spinach Salad components are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy weekdays! You can prepare the balsamic glaze up to 3 days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad base (baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and blueberries) can be washed and prepped up to 24 hours ahead, but be sure to keep the berries separate to maintain their freshness. When ready to serve, simply toss the salad ingredients together, add the crumbled feta and toasted pecans, then drizzle with the chilled balsamic glaze. This way, your salad remains just as delicious and vibrant while cutting down on prep stress!
Strawberry Spinach Salad Variations
Get ready to personalize this delightful salad with various exciting twists that will tantalize your taste buds!
-
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal. This will transform your salad into a satisfying main dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
-
Goat Cheese Swap: Replace feta with creamy goat cheese for a tangier flavor delight. The richness of goat cheese pairs beautifully with the sweetness of strawberries.
-
Avocado Creaminess: Incorporate diced avocado for an extra layer of creaminess and healthy fats. The buttery texture will enhance the overall experience of this fresh salad.
-
Heat it Up: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. This contrast of heat with the sweetness of the berries will surprise and excite your palate.
-
Crunchy Seeds: Toss in some pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added crunch and nutrition. They bring a delightful texture that complements the soft berries and creamy cheese beautifully.
-
Fresh Herbs: Add fresh herbs like basil or mint for an aromatic twist. The herbaceous notes uplift the salad and create a refreshing bite with every forkful.
-
Citrus Zing: Drizzle with lemon or lime juice for a zesty flair. This brightness balances well with the rich balsamic glaze, elevating the entire dish.
-
Berry Mix-Up: Swap blueberries for raspberries or blackberries for a different berry flavor profile. Each berry brings its own unique sweetness and charm to the salad.
Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe FAQs
What type of strawberries should I use for the salad?
Absolutely! Choose ripe strawberries that are bright red and firm with no dark spots. They should be fragrant and free from any bruising to ensure maximum sweetness and flavor.
How do I store leftover salad?
Very importantly, store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. To maintain the freshness of the ingredients, keep the balsamic glaze in a separate container, where it can last for up to 1 week.
Can I freeze the balsamic glaze?
Absolutely! To freeze the balsamic glaze, allow it to cool completely and pour it into an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or warm it gently in a saucepan.
What if my pecans are unsalted?
No worries! If you find yourself with unsalted pecans, they can still work beautifully in this Strawberry Spinach Salad recipe. Just toast them lightly in a dry skillet, which will enhance their nutty flavor and bring a delightful crunch, even without added salt.
Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free option, simply swap out the feta cheese for almond feta or tofu feta. Both alternatives maintain that creamy texture and tanginess without any dairy, allowing everyone to enjoy this delicious salad.
Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe with Tangy Balsamic Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and brown sugar; bring to a gentle boil. Allow it to simmer until reduced by half, about 10 minutes, and then cool the glaze in a heat-proof bowl.
- In a large bowl, combine baby spinach, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are mixed well together.
- Divide the salad into individual bowls or serve family-style in a larger dish. Top with a mix of whole and chopped toasted pecans for that delightful crunch.
- Drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze over the salad according to your taste, making sure to evenly distribute the flavors across the vibrant ingredients.