Irresistible Strawberry Spinach Salad for Summer Fun

When the sun shines bright and the air is filled with laughter, nothing beats a Strawberry Spinach Salad. Imagine biting into a crisp leaf of fresh spinach, only to discover sweet strawberries hiding beneath. The tangy dressing dances on your taste buds while the nuts add that irresistible crunch. It’s like a party in your mouth that everyone is invited to.

This delightful dish isn’t just about taste; it’s wrapped in memories of summer picnics and family gatherings. I remember the first time I prepared this salad for a barbecue, and my cousin declared it “the best thing ever.” It’s perfect for potlucks or as a refreshing side at any dinner gathering. Get ready to embark on a flavor journey that will have you reaching for seconds!

I still chuckle when I think about how my friends fought over the last serving of this salad at our last get-together.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Spinach: Choose bright green leaves without wilting for maximum freshness and crunch.

• Strawberries: Look for ripe, juicy strawberries; they should smell sweet and be slightly firm.

• Red Onion: Use thinly sliced red onion for a mild kick; soak them in water beforehand if you prefer less pungency.

• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess; opt for high-quality cheese for better flavor.

• Walnuts or Pecans: Toasted nuts provide crunch; chop them roughly for texture.

• Balsamic Vinaigrette: A homemade or store-bought version works well; ensure it’s tangy yet balanced with sweetness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by washing the fresh spinach leaves thoroughly under cold water, ensuring they are free from dirt. Pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

Slice the Strawberries: Cut off the green tops from the strawberries and slice them into halves or quarters depending on their size. This step enhances their sweetness while adding visual appeal.

Chop the Nuts: If using whole walnuts or pecans, coarsely chop them before placing them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast them until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion rings, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted nuts. Gently toss them together so as not to bruise the berries.

Add Dressing and Serve: Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over your salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp. Toss lightly again to coat all ingredients evenly.

Enjoy this refreshing Strawberry Spinach Salad as a delightful side dish or light meal that’s sure to impress!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by washing the spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt. Slice the strawberries just before serving to maintain their freshness, and mix the dressing in a separate bowl for even distribution.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap strawberries with blueberries or add feta cheese for a tangy twist. You can also drizzle honey or balsamic glaze for added sweetness, turning this salad into your personal masterpiece.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container, but keep the dressing separate to prevent sogginess. Use within two days for optimal freshness; no reheating needed!

Creating my first Strawberry Spinach Salad was an adventure that ended with friends raving about how they never knew salads could taste so good.

FAQ

Can I make Strawberry Spinach Salad ahead of time?

Yes, but dress it just before serving for freshness and crunch.

What can I substitute for spinach?

Kale or mixed greens work well as alternatives if you prefer something different.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just keep the dressing separate until ready to enjoy it fresh.

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Delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad

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• Author: Rachel Lawson
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

This refreshing Strawberry Spinach Salad is the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. Crisp spinach leaves are paired with juicy strawberries, crunchy nuts, and creamy feta, all drizzled with tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Ideal for summer picnics or quick weeknight dinners, this salad is both visually appealing and satisfying, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

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Ingredients

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• 5 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/3 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted and chopped
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly wash the spinach leaves under cold water and pat dry.
2. Slice the strawberries into halves or quarters.
3. If using whole nuts, coarsely chop them and toast in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant.
4. In a large bowl, combine spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion rings, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted nuts; gently toss to mix.
5. Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving and toss lightly again.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (150g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 20mg