A spinach and strawberry salad is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, making it a refreshing meal or side dish. Combining fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese, this salad is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients and antioxidants.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for a Perfect Spinach and Strawberry Salad
Salad Base:
- 10 ounces fresh baby spinach, washed and dried
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¾ cup toasted pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
- ¾ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1½ tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1½ tablespoons poppy seeds
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
If you’re looking for another fresh salad idea, you may also love this light and crunchy Broccoli Salad, perfect for meal prep.
How to Make Spinach and Strawberry Salad Recipe
Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash and dry the baby spinach leaves thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
- Hull and slice the strawberries into thin pieces.
- Toast the pecans in a dry pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant. Let them cool before adding to the salad.
- Slice the red onions as thinly as possible. If you prefer a milder taste, soak them in cold water for about 10 minutes, then drain.
Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing, add an extra ½ tablespoon of honey or maple syrup.
Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, and red onions.
- Drizzle half of the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the leaves evenly.
- Top with crumbled cheese and toasted pecans, distributing them evenly across the salad.
- Add the remaining dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh and vibrant.
Best Pairings and Serving Ideas
This fresh Spinach and Strawberry Salad Recipe pairs beautifully with many main dishes:
- With Protein: Serve alongside Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad for a hearty yet healthy meal.
- With Soup: Enjoy a warm bowl of Lentil Soup for a nutritious and satisfying dinner.
- With Bread: Pair with homemade Zucchini Boats for a wholesome side.
For those who love light but filling meals, this salad also goes well with Quinoa Salad, adding extra protein and fiber to your diet.
If you’re a fan of vibrant salads, you might also enjoy this Chickpea Salad, which offers another healthy and protein-rich option for a light meal.
Why Spinach and Strawberries Are a Perfect Pair
Spinach and strawberries complement each other in both flavor and nutrition:
- Spinach is high in iron, fiber, and vitamins A, C, and K, supporting heart health and digestion.
- Strawberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, helping to boost immunity and fight inflammation.
For another delicious way to incorporate strawberries into your meals, try this Strawberry Cake, a perfect dessert to pair with your fresh salad.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
- Store leftovers properly by keeping the dressing separate to prevent sogginess.
- Refrigerate undressed salad for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Dressing can be stored in a sealed jar for up to 5 days—just shake before use.
- If preparing ahead, slice the strawberries and onions just before serving to maintain their freshness.
For another great meal-prep salad, try this nutrient-packed Cucumber Tomato Salad for a quick and refreshing alternative.
(FAQs) About Spinach and Strawberry Salad Recipe
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Keep the dressing separate and mix just before serving to avoid wilted spinach.
What cheese works best in this salad?
Feta, goat cheese, or blue cheese all add a creamy and tangy contrast that enhances the flavor.
What’s a good nut-free alternative?
If you have a nut allergy, toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds offer a similar crunch without allergens.
How do I keep spinach from wilting?
Use dry spinach leaves and add dressing only before serving. Keeping the salad in an airtight container also helps retain freshness.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free feta or nutritional yeast instead of cheese, and replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly version.
Final Thoughts
A spinach and strawberry salad is the perfect way to enjoy a light yet nutritious meal. Whether served as a quick lunch, a side dish, or a main course, this salad is an easy and flavorful way to incorporate fresh, wholesome ingredients into your diet.
For more healthy meal inspirations, check out this flavor-packed Cucumber Tomato Salad, another quick and refreshing option.