The sun shines brightly, casting a golden hue on your plate as you unveil a vibrant Strawberry Spinach Salad. You can almost hear the crunch of fresh spinach mingling with the sweetness of ripe strawberries, while a light vinaigrette dances in the air, inviting you to dig in. The bright colors and delightful aromas are a feast for the eyes and nose, promising an explosion of flavors that will elevate any meal.

I remember the first time I made this salad at a summer picnic. The laughter of friends filled the air as we gathered around, and their faces lit up when I unveiled this colorful dish. It became an instant hit, quickly disappearing from the serving bowl. Perfect for those sunny afternoons or even as a refreshing side at holiday gatherings, this Strawberry Spinach Salad is simply irresistible.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Strawberry Spinach Salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Bursting with flavors and textures, it combines sweet strawberries with tender spinach for a delightful experience
- The vibrant colors also make it visually appealing, turning any meal into a celebration
- Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with grilled chicken for an elevated feast
Sharing this recipe with friends often elicits gasps of delight as they savor each bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Spinach: Opt for young, tender leaves for the best flavor and texture in your salad.
Ripe Strawberries: Choose sweet, juicy strawberries that are firm to the touch for maximum flavor.
Red Onion: Thinly slice red onion to add a zesty crunch without overpowering other flavors.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy tanginess that perfectly complements the sweetness of strawberries.
Pecan Halves: Lightly toasted pecans provide crunch and nutty richness; feel free to substitute your favorite nuts.
Balsamic Vinaigrette: A homemade vinaigrette enhances flavors; mix balsamic vinegar with olive oil for best results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by washing and drying the fresh spinach leaves thoroughly; moisture can dampen the salad’s crispness. Slice strawberries into quarters and set aside.
Add Flavorful Components: Thinly slice half an onion – don’t worry if you shed a tear or two; it’s just part of the fun! Crumble feta cheese into small pieces to sprinkle later.
Toss It All Together: In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, onion slices, pecans, and crumbled feta. Gently toss everything together while admiring the rainbow of colors.
Dress Your Creation: Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over your salad masterpiece; start with less since you can always add more later! Toss gently until everything is coated beautifully.
Serve and Enjoy!: Transfer your colorful Strawberry Spinach Salad onto plates or serve family-style in a large bowl. Watch everyone dig in as they savor each bite!
With these simple steps behind you, you’ll find yourself creating not just a salad but an experience that brings people together around good food and laughter. Enjoy every moment as you relish this delightful dish!
This amazing Strawberry Spinach Salad combines sweet and savory flavors for a refreshing dish. Using fresh ingredients elevates the taste, while a light vinaigrette adds zing. Perfect for picnics or quick lunches, this salad is simple yet impressive.
You Must Know
- The blend of strawberries and spinach creates a delightful contrast that’s both visually appealing and delicious
- Pairing with nuts adds crunch, while feta cheese introduces creaminess
- This salad is not just nutritious but also a crowd-pleaser at gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by washing your spinach thoroughly to remove dirt. Then slice strawberries just before serving to maintain freshness. Assemble your salad right before eating for optimal texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out spinach for mixed greens if desired. Add grilled chicken for protein or toss in nuts for extra crunch. A splash of balsamic glaze can enhance the flavor beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. To keep the salad fresh, keep dressing separate until ready to serve. Consume within two days for best quality.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always choose ripe strawberries; their sweetness will elevate your salad immensely
- Spinach should be crisp and vibrant; avoid any yellowing leaves for freshness
- When mixing dressings, start with a small amount and adjust according to taste preference
The first time I made this Strawberry Spinach Salad was at a summer barbecue, and my friends devoured it! They still ask me to make it every time we gather, which warms my heart.
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries for this salad?
Frozen strawberries can be used but may alter the texture significantly.
What dressing pairs best with Strawberry Spinach Salad?
A light vinaigrette or balsamic dressing enhances the flavors wonderfully.
How do I prevent spinach from wilting?
Add dressing just before serving to keep spinach crisp and fresh.

Refreshing Strawberry Spinach Salad
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- Author: Ann Foster
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Bright and bursting with flavor, this Strawberry Spinach Salad combines tender spinach leaves with sweet strawberries, zesty red onion, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy pecans. Tossed in a light balsamic vinaigrette, it’s the perfect side for picnics or a quick lunch. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, this salad will be the star of your table.
Ingredients
- 5 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 cups ripe strawberries, quartered
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup pecan halves (lightly toasted)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Wash and dry the spinach leaves thoroughly.
- Slice strawberries into quarters and set aside.
- Thinly slice the red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, onion slices, pecans, and crumbled feta.
- Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg