The sun shines down as you take your first bite of a vibrant classic strawberry spinach salad. The sweetness of juicy strawberries harmonizes beautifully with the crispness of fresh spinach, creating a flavor explosion that simply dances on your palate. It’s like a party in your mouth where everyone is invited—except the boring lettuce.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What is the best way to prepare spinach for salad?
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- What dressing pairs well with strawberry spinach salad?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made this salad for a family picnic. My cousin took one look at it and said, “Vegetables can be fun?” That’s when I realized I had stumbled upon a culinary masterpiece that could even convert the most stubborn veggie-haters into enthusiastic salad lovers.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This classic strawberry spinach salad is as easy to whip up as it is delicious
- The combination of sweet strawberries and crunchy nuts makes each bite a delightful experience
- Its vibrant colors will brighten up any table, making it perfect for gatherings and special occasions
- You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings or proteins for a full meal
Everyone raved about how colorful and tasty it was; even Uncle Bob (who usually sticks to meat) went back for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Baby Spinach: Look for fresh, bright green leaves without wilting or browning for optimal flavor.
- Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe strawberries that are fragrant and free from blemishes; they should be sweet and juicy.
- Red Onion: A small amount adds a nice zing; choose one that’s firm without soft spots.
- Pecans or Walnuts: Toasted nuts bring warmth and crunch; feel free to use your nut of choice!
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess; opt for high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Balsamic Vinaigrette: Either homemade or store-bought works wonders; look for one with quality ingredients.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Wash & Prepare Your Greens: Start by rinsing the baby spinach under cold water; shake off excess moisture before placing it in a large bowl.
Slice Those Strawberries: Hull the strawberries and slice them into thin rounds; their bright color will add beautiful contrast to the green spinach.
Add Onions & Nuts: Thinly slice red onion and toss them in with the greens along with toasted pecans or walnuts for that satisfying crunch.
Toss in Feta Cheese: Crumble feta cheese over the top of your mixed ingredients; it brings an irresistible creaminess that ties everything together beautifully.
Dress It Up!: Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over your salad just before serving; toss gently to coat all ingredients without bruising the delicate greens.
Serving this classic strawberry spinach salad is like giving your guests a little hug from nature itself—a healthy yet indulgent treat that feels celebratory! Perfectly suited for summer picnics or as a side dish at family barbecues, it’s sure to become an instant favorite around your dinner table!
You Must Know
- Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad is a vibrant mix that balances sweet and savory flavors
- Fresh strawberries add a burst of sweetness, while spinach provides a healthy base
- This salad is perfect for summer picnics or as a light dinner side, bringing color and taste to your table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by washing the spinach and strawberries. Then, slice the strawberries and mix the dressing while keeping everything crisp and fresh.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap nuts or cheese based on your taste; crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a delightful tang!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container but avoid adding dressing until ready to eat to maintain freshness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use ripe strawberries for the best sweetness; check them for firmness and vibrant color before purchasing
- Always wash greens thoroughly to remove any grit, ensuring each bite is clean and crunchy
- Add nuts just before serving for a satisfying crunch that won’t go soggy
I remember serving this Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad at a family gathering, and my cousin couldn’t stop raving about it. It’s always a hit!
FAQ
What is the best way to prepare spinach for salad?
Rinse spinach leaves under cold water and gently pat dry with paper towels.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare ingredients separately and combine just before serving for optimal freshness.
What dressing pairs well with strawberry spinach salad?
A light balsamic vinaigrette or poppy seed dressing enhances flavors beautifully.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful blend of sweet strawberries and crunchy spinach, topped with creamy feta and toasted nuts. Perfect for summer picnics or light lunches!
Ingredients
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Wash baby spinach under cold water and shake off excess moisture.
- Slice strawberries into thin rounds.
- In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, red onion, and toasted pecans.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese.
- Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving and toss gently to combine.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (200g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
