Strawberry Spinach Salad

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful celebration of fresh, seasonal flavors. The natural sweetness of ripe strawberries perfectly balances the earthy notes of baby spinach, while the tangy feta cheese and crunchy candied pecans add texture and depth. The homemade poppy seed dressing ties everything together with its silky, sweet-tangy finish.

It’s a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, making it perfect for spring brunches, summer BBQs, or as a refreshing side for weeknight dinners. Quick to assemble and bursting with color, this salad will brighten your table and impress guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 6 cups fresh baby spinach, washed and dried

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup candied pecans or walnuts

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a large salad bowl, layer the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, candied pecans, and crumbled feta cheese.

2. In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and poppy seeds until well emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

4. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes

Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Strawberry Spinach Salad – A Fresh, Flavorful, and Nutritious Favorite

Few dishes embody the feeling of spring and summer quite like a vibrant, colorful Strawberry Spinach Salad. This delightful combination brings together the sweetness of juicy strawberries, the earthy freshness of baby spinach, the tang of crumbled feta, and the satisfying crunch of candied nuts. It’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrition and flavor.

Perfect as a light lunch, a side dish for a barbecue, or a refreshing starter for a dinner party, this salad’s charm lies in its balance of flavors and textures. Each bite offers a harmonious mix of sweet, savory, tangy, and nutty notes that keep you coming back for more. And while it may look gourmet, it’s incredibly easy to prepare in just minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or last-minute entertaining.

A Celebration of Seasonal Ingredients

One of the best aspects of this salad is its use of seasonal produce. Strawberries are at their peak during late spring and early summer, offering a burst of natural sweetness and a vibrant pop of color. When you pair them with tender baby spinach, you get a nutrient-rich green base that’s mild in flavor, allowing the other ingredients to shine.

This salad is also highly adaptable to what’s available at your local farmer’s market or grocery store. If strawberries are out of season, you can substitute them with other berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or even sliced peaches for a different but equally refreshing twist.

Flavor and Texture Harmony

A well-made salad is all about the interplay of different flavors and textures. The sweetness of ripe strawberries contrasts beautifully with the slightly bitter undertones of spinach. Creamy feta cheese adds richness, while candied pecans or walnuts bring a sweet, crunchy element that makes every bite satisfying.

The dressing, typically a honey balsamic or poppy seed variety – adds the final layer of flavor. A good dressing should be tangy yet slightly sweet, enhancing the strawberries’ natural sugars while balancing the richness of the cheese and the earthiness of the greens. This is why homemade dressings work so well here; they allow you to control the sweetness, acidity, and consistency to suit your taste.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is more than just delicious; it’s packed with nutrients that can support overall health:

• Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, manganese, folate, and antioxidants. They help boost immunity, support skin health, and fight oxidative stress.

• Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron, magnesium, and plant-based protein. It’s great for bone health, energy production, and cardiovascular support.

• Feta cheese provides calcium and protein while adding a savory, tangy flavor that balances the salad’s sweetness.

• Nuts, especially pecans or walnuts, contain heart-healthy fats, fiber, and minerals like magnesium and zinc. They help keep you full longer and support brain health.

• Olive oil in the dressing is a healthy fat that promotes heart health and aids nutrient absorption.

By combining these wholesome ingredients, you get a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing without being heavy.

Occasions and Serving Ideas

One of the greatest strengths of a Strawberry Spinach Salad is its versatility. You can serve it in a variety of settings:

• As a side dish for grilled meats like chicken, salmon, or steak.

• For brunch alongside quiche, breakfast pastries, or a charcuterie board.

• At potlucks or picnics where you want to offer something fresh, colorful, and universally loved.

• As a starter for a dinner party to awaken the palate without filling guests up too much before the main course.

To make it heartier, consider adding sliced grilled chicken, seared shrimp, or even quinoa for extra protein and texture. This makes the salad a complete meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Tips for the Best Strawberry Spinach Salad

To make this salad truly shine, here are some expert tips:

1. Choose ripe, sweet strawberries. Their flavor is the star of this dish, so go for the freshest, in-season berries you can find.

2. Use fresh baby spinach. Avoid older spinach leaves, which can be tougher and more bitter. Wash and dry them thoroughly to prevent soggy salad.

3. Toast your nuts. Even if they’re candied, a quick toast in a dry skillet enhances their flavor and crunch.

4. Make the dressing fresh. Homemade dressing tastes brighter and fresher than store-bought, and it allows you to control the sweetness and acidity.

5. Dress the salad just before serving. This keeps the spinach crisp and prevents it from wilting.

Variations to Try

While the classic combination is hard to beat, there are countless creative variations you can explore:

• Berry Medley Salad: Swap half the strawberries for blueberries and raspberries for more color and flavor complexity.

• Citrus Twist: Add orange segments and a citrus vinaigrette for a bright, sunny flavor profile.

• Savory Version: Use goat cheese instead of feta and add thinly sliced avocado for creaminess.

• Protein Boost: Include grilled chicken, turkey, or tofu for a filling main-course salad.

• Herb-Infused: Add fresh basil or mint for a burst of herbal freshness that complements the strawberries.

Why This Salad is a Crowd-Pleaser

Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or bringing a dish to share, this salad always impresses. It’s colorful, visually appealing, and has a universally likable flavor profile that pleases both adventurous eaters and picky palates.

The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy notes appeals to a wide audience, while its light and healthy nature makes it a guilt-free indulgence. Best of all, it’s quick and easy, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Spinach Salad is more than just a side dish – it’s a vibrant, nutrient-packed celebration of fresh flavors. With its perfect balance of sweetness from strawberries, earthiness from spinach, richness from feta, and crunch from candied nuts, it delivers a delightful eating experience in every bite.

Whether served at a summer picnic, as part of a holiday spread, or simply as a light weekday lunch, this salad never fails to impress. Its versatility, nutritional benefits, and beautiful presentation make it a recipe worth keeping in your regular rotation.

Next time strawberries are in season, give this salad a try, your taste buds and your guests will thank you.