Refreshing Strawberry Spinach Salad

Published: March 10, 2025

by mimi

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful strawberry spinach salad is incredibly easy to whip up in under 15 minutes
Its bright colors and enticing aroma make it visually stunning on any table
The blend of sweet and savory flavors creates an unforgettable taste experience
Perfect for everything from casual lunches to elegant dinners!

One summer afternoon, I decided to try this recipe for a potluck barbecue. When I brought it out, my cousin Eric took one look and said, “Salad? Where’s the meat?” But after just one bite, he was hooked! Now he’s known as the ‘Salad Convert’ in our family.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Fresh Baby Spinach: Look for vibrant green leaves without any wilting or browning for the best flavor.
Ripe Strawberries: Opt for firm strawberries that are bright red for optimal sweetness.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a zingy crunch; soak them in cold water first if you want milder flavor.
Goat Cheese: Creamy goat cheese crumbles bring richness to balance the sweetness of strawberries.
Pecans or Walnuts: Choose toasted nuts for an added depth of flavor and crunch.

For the Dressing:

Balsamic Vinegar: Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick that complements the salad beautifully.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor while providing healthy fats.
Honey or Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness balances out the tanginess of vinegar.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning elevates all flavors in this delightful mix.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Base Ingredients: Start by washing your baby spinach thoroughly under cold water. Pat dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels before placing in a large bowl.

Slicing Up Strawberries: Remove the green tops from your strawberries and slice them into thin rounds or quarters depending on your preference. Their juicy sweetness will shine through in every bite!

Add Those Crunchy Elements: Toss in thinly sliced red onion, crumbled goat cheese, and your choice of toasted pecans or walnuts into the spinach bowl. These components create a delightful contrast in texture.

Whisk Together Dressing: In a small bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well combined. The dressing should be balanced between sweet and tangy!

Toss It All Together: Drizzle your freshly made dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated—be careful not to crush those beautiful strawberries!

Now you have created an eye-catching Strawberry Spinach Salad that’s bursting with flavors! Serve immediately alongside grilled chicken or as a stand-alone dish at your next gathering!

You Must Know

Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only refreshing but also an excellent way to combine sweet and savory flavors
The vibrant colors and textures bring your plate to life, making it a delightful addition to any meal or picnic
Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in no time!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfect results, wash your spinach first, then layer strawberries and toppings before drizzling with dressing. This method enhances flavor and freshness while ensuring even distribution.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out strawberries for blueberries or add nuts for crunch. Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese to elevate your salad’s taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Avoid reheating as fresh salads are best enjoyed chilled and crisp.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness; this can transform the salad’s overall flavor
Always wash spinach thoroughly to avoid grit and enhance its freshness
Don’t dress the salad until serving to keep ingredients crisp and vibrant

Cooking this Strawberry Spinach Salad always brings back fond memories of summer picnics with friends, where laughter mingled with the aroma of fresh berries.

FAQs

FAQ

What can I substitute if I don’t have spinach?

Try using kale or mixed greens as a delicious alternative to spinach.

How long will the salad stay fresh?

The Strawberry Spinach Salad stays fresh for about 24 hours when stored properly.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare ingredients separately and combine them just before serving for optimal freshness.

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📖 Recipe Card