Why Make This Recipe
Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful dish that combines fresh flavors and vibrant colors. It’s perfect for warm weather, gatherings, or as a tasty side dish. This salad is not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients from the spinach and strawberries. The crumbled cheese and pecans add richness and crunch, making it satisfying and delicious.
How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces Fresh Spinach + Mixed Greens
- 16 ounces Fresh Strawberries – stems removed (sliced)
- 1/2 Cup Crumbled Cheese (goat cheese, gorgonzola, blue cheese, or feta)
- 1/2 Cup Chopped Pecans
- 1/2 Cup Olive Oil
- 1/3 Cup Balsamic Vinegar
- 2 teaspoons Maple Syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
- Salt/Pepper – to taste
Directions:
- Whisk together oil, vinegar, maple syrup, mustard, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
- Combine spinach, salad greens, sliced strawberries, cheese, and pecans in a large bowl.
- Toss with the dressing and serve. Alternatively, plate salads individually and serve dressing on the side.
How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad
Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad as a side dish or light meal. It pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or fish. You can also enjoy it on its own for a nutritious lunch. For an elegant touch, add edible flowers for garnish.
How to Store Strawberry Spinach Salad
To store leftovers, put any uneaten salad in an airtight container. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting. It’s best to eat the salad within a day or two for the freshest taste.
Tips to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Use fresh, organic ingredients for the best flavor.
- If you want more sweetness, increase the amount of maple syrup.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses or nuts based on your preferences.
Variation
Try adding sliced avocados, grilled chicken, or sliced apples for extra flavor and texture. You can also swap the balsamic vinegar for apple cider vinegar for a different taste.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time, but do not add the dressing until you are ready to serve to keep the greens fresh.
2. What can I substitute for pecans?
You can use walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds instead of pecans for a different crunch.
3. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients in this salad are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Strawberry Spinach Salad
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 16 ounces Fresh Spinach + Mixed Greens Use a mix of baby spinach and other greens.
- 16 ounces Fresh Strawberries – stems removed (sliced) Choose ripe strawberries for best flavor.
- 1/2 Cup Crumbled Cheese (goat cheese, gorgonzola, blue cheese, or feta) Choose cheese based on personal preference.
- 1/2 Cup Chopped Pecans Can substitute with walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds.
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 Cup Olive Oil Use extra virgin olive oil for best taste.
- 1/3 Cup Balsamic Vinegar Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute.
- 2 teaspoons Maple Syrup Adjust for sweetness if desired.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Adds a slight tang to the dressing.
- Salt/Pepper – to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
- In a large bowl, combine fresh spinach, mixed greens, sliced strawberries, crumbled cheese, and chopped pecans.
Serving
- Toss the salad with the dressing and serve immediately.
- Alternatively, plate salads individually and serve the dressing on the side.