Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Strawberry Spinach Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. With juicy strawberries, tender spinach leaves, crunchy nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette, it’s ideal for spring and summer meals, potlucks, or as a refreshing side. This colorful salad not only looks beautiful but is also packed with nutrients and easy to prepare.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
fresh spinach leavesfresh strawberriessliced almonds or chopped pecansred onion (thinly sliced)feta or goat cheese (optional)poppy seed or balsamic vinaigretteolive oilhoneyDijon mustardapple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegarsalt and pepper
directions
Wash and dry the spinach leaves thoroughly.
Hull and slice the strawberries.
In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, red onion, and nuts.
If using, crumble feta or goat cheese over the top.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat.
Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesTotal time: 10 minutes
Variations
Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Use arugula or mixed greens in place of spinach.
Swap nuts for sunflower seeds or candied walnuts.
Include avocado slices for extra creaminess.
Try blue cheese instead of feta for a sharper flavor.
storage/reheating
Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Dressed salad should be eaten the same day to avoid sogginess.
Do not reheat—this salad is best served cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I make Strawberry Spinach Salad ahead of time?
Yes, prep all ingredients and store separately, then combine and dress just before serving.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Yes, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative, and ensure the dressing contains no honey.
What type of vinegar works best?
Balsamic or apple cider vinegar both pair well with strawberries.
How can I make this salad more filling?
Add cooked quinoa, farro, or grilled meat to make it a meal.
Are there any nut-free options?
Yes, use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are recommended, but thawed frozen ones can work in a pinch with less visual appeal.
Conclusion
Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful, nutrient-packed dish that brings together fresh produce and bold flavors. Quick to make and endlessly customizable, it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion where you want something healthy, tasty, and visually appealing. Give it a try—you’ll love the refreshing twist it adds to your table.
PrintStrawberry Spinach Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and vibrant salad combining sweet strawberries, fresh spinach, and a tangy dressing, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, almonds, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute feta with goat cheese or blue cheese for a different flavor.
- Add grilled chicken for extra protein.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option.
- Toast almonds in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes for enhanced flavor.