Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad
Highlighted under: Clean Wellness Meals
I absolutely love making this Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad when the strawberries are in season. The combination of sweet, juicy strawberries with fresh spinach creates a vibrant and delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This salad not only pleases the palate but also brightens up my table with its colorful presentation. I often serve it as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or pack it for a picnic. The flavors meld beautifully, and I’m always amazed at how simple ingredients can come together to create something so satisfying.
When I first tried mixing strawberries with spinach, I was hesitant but hopeful. I turned to a simple vinaigrette to tie the ingredients together, and it transformed the dish! The sweetness of the strawberries balanced beautifully with the earthiness of the spinach, creating a salad that I couldn’t resist.
Another tip I've discovered is to add a touch of crumbled feta cheese for a salty counterpoint. It elevates the flavor profile significantly and makes the salad feel even more gourmet. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, it always garners compliments!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Bright and refreshing flavors that pop in your mouth
- Nutrient-dense ingredients that are good for you
- Perfect for a quick, healthy meal or side dish
Choosing Fresh Ingredients
The success of the Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad lies in the quality of its ingredients. When selecting strawberries, look for vibrant red berries with a sweet aroma. Avoid any that are green or dull, as these may lack flavor. For the spinach, opt for fresh baby leaves, as they offer a sweeter and more tender bite compared to mature spinach. You can crop the salad with seasonal greens like arugula for an added peppery flavor or swap half the spinach for kale, which adds nutrients and a different texture.
Toasting the almonds is a crucial step that enhances their flavor. Heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once they are golden brown and fragrant, remove them from the heat immediately. This simple technique elevates the nutty profile of the salad, striking a nice balance with the sweetness of the strawberries and the tang of the feta cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This salad not only stands out on its own but can also complement a variety of dishes. Consider pairing it with grilled chicken or salmon for a balanced meal, or enjoy it alongside a hearty quiche during brunch. If you’re planning a picnic, adding whole grain bread or crackers will round out the meal beautifully. I often make a larger batch of this salad and serve it in a large glass bowl to showcase its vibrant colors, making it a centerpiece of my dining table.
If you're preparing this salad ahead of time, dress the salad just before serving to keep the spinach crisp. However, the components can be prepped in advance. You can store the washed spinach and sliced strawberries separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to a day. For a caesar twist, incorporate some grilled shrimp, or substitute walnuts for almonds for a different crunch that pairs well with the strawberries.
Ingredients
Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Mix well and serve immediately for the best flavor!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Wash the spinach thoroughly and spin dry. Slice the strawberries and set aside. Toast the sliced almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown.
Combine Salad
In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, toasted almonds, crumbled feta, and red onion.
Dress the Salad
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.
Serve
Transfer the salad to serving plates and enjoy immediately for the freshest taste!
Pro Tips
- For extra crunch, consider adding some crispy chickpeas or a handful of walnuts. Additionally, serving the salad fresh is key
- dress it just before serving to maintain the spinach's crisp texture.
Storage Tips
To ensure maximum freshness, store any leftover salad components separately. The spinach may wilt if stored with the dressing, so it's best to keep it in a plastic bag or container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. Strawberries should be kept in their original container or in a single layer in a shallow bowl, covered lightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from bruising. Consumed within two days, the salad maintains its quality, but if left longer, the textures may become compromised.
For meal-prepping purposes, you can prepare the salad in jars. Layer the ingredients starting with the dressing at the bottom, followed by red onions, feta, strawberries, and finally the spinach on top. This arrangement keeps the greens from getting soggy and can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, simply shake and pour into a bowl for a quick meal.
Variations to Try
While the classic combination is delightful, feel free to explore variations that suit your taste. For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa to make it a complete meal. If you're looking for something a bit more indulgent, slices of avocado or a handful of bacon bits can enhance the richness of the salad, pairing wonderfully with the sweet strawberries. You can also experiment with different cheese options, like goat cheese, which brings a creamy and tangy flavor contrast.
For a citrusy twist, include segments of orange or grapefruit, which not only add a burst of flavor but also offer a bright color contrast. Adding a handful of fresh herbs like mint or basil can also elevate the salad, resulting in a fresh, herbal note that complements the strawberries beautifully. Adjust the balsamic vinaigrette with a splash of citrus juice for a zesty kick, tying the whole dish together.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It's best to prepare this salad just before serving to keep the spinach fresh. If you need to make it ahead, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
→ What other fruits can I add?
You can try adding blueberries, raspberries, or even slices of kiwi for a delightful twist.
→ Can I substitute the feta cheese?
Absolutely! You can use goat cheese, or omit it altogether for a dairy-free version.
→ What is the best way to store leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the uneaten salad in an airtight container in the fridge without the dressing. It should last up to a day.
Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad
I absolutely love making this Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad when the strawberries are in season. The combination of sweet, juicy strawberries with fresh spinach creates a vibrant and delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This salad not only pleases the palate but also brightens up my table with its colorful presentation. I often serve it as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or pack it for a picnic. The flavors meld beautifully, and I’m always amazed at how simple ingredients can come together to create something so satisfying.
Created by: Ariana Brooks
Recipe Type: Clean Wellness Meals
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinaigrette
How-To Steps
Wash the spinach thoroughly and spin dry. Slice the strawberries and set aside. Toast the sliced almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown.
In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, toasted almonds, crumbled feta, and red onion.
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.
Transfer the salad to serving plates and enjoy immediately for the freshest taste!
Extra Tips
- For extra crunch, consider adding some crispy chickpeas or a handful of walnuts. Additionally, serving the salad fresh is key
- dress it just before serving to maintain the spinach's crisp texture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 4g