15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

This vibrant and refreshing strawberry spinach salad is a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Ready in just 15 minutes, it makes a quick side dish or light meal, ideal for spring and summer days. The juicy strawberries, fresh spinach, and crunchy toppings are tied together with a simple yet delicious dressing.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh baby spinachfresh strawberries (sliced)red onion (thinly sliced)feta cheese (crumbled)pecans or walnuts (toasted)sunflower seeds (optional)balsamic vinegarolive oilsalt and black pepperhoney or maple syrup (for sweetness)

directions

Wash and dry the spinach and strawberries thoroughly.

In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, and red onion.

Sprinkle crumbled feta, toasted nuts, and sunflower seeds over the salad.

In a small jar or bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper to taste.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to combine.

Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 as a side dish or 2 as a main course.Preparation time: 10 minutesAssembly time: 5 minutesTotal time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

Swap feta for goat cheese or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

Use arugula or mixed greens in place of spinach.

Add avocado slices for creaminess.

Top with pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover salad (undressed) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.If already dressed, consume within 24 hours to avoid sogginess.Dressing can be made ahead and stored separately in the fridge for up to a week.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but store the dressing separately and add it right before serving to keep the spinach crisp.

What kind of nuts work best?

Toasted pecans or walnuts add great crunch and flavor, but almonds or cashews can also be used.

Can I use bottled dressing?

Yes, a quality balsamic vinaigrette works well, though homemade dressing tastes fresher.

Is this salad vegan?

It can be—just omit the feta or use a plant-based cheese substitute and use maple syrup instead of honey.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for best texture and taste, but thawed frozen berries can work in a pinch.

How can I make this salad more filling?

Add grains like quinoa, couscous, or wild rice for extra substance.

Conclusion

The 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that’s both nourishing and beautiful. It’s an easy, go-to recipe for weeknight dinners, picnics, or lunch on the go. With plenty of room for customization, this salad is as flexible as it is flavorful.

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