Name: Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Balsamic Dressing (Balsamic Glaze):; 1 cup balsamic vinegar; ¼ cup honey or brown sugar; For the Spinach Strawberry Salad:; 10 oz baby spinach, fresh; 3 cups strawberries, cleaned, hulled, and sliced; 1 cup blueberries; ⅓ cup Feta cheese, crumbled; 1 cup pecans, toasted (some chopped)

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If you’re looking for a healthy, vibrant, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion, this Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe is your answer! This delightful salad comes together in just 15 minutes and features a medley of fresh ingredients like baby spinach, sweet strawberries, blueberries, creamy Feta cheese, crunchy toasted pecans, and a luscious homemade balsamic glaze.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, attending a potluck, or planning a picnic, this recipe is guaranteed to impress your guests while keeping things simple and nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Spinach Salad

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats, this salad is as good for you as it is delicious.
Versatile: It pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors makes it a hit for all occasions, from holidays to casual lunches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Balsamic Glaze:

1 cup balsamic vinegar
¼ cup honey or brown sugar (adjust based on your sweetness preference)

For the Salad:

10 oz baby spinach (fresh and washed)
3 cups strawberries, cleaned, hulled, and sliced
1 cup blueberries
⅓ cup Feta cheese, crumbled
1 cup pecans, toasted (some chopped for extra crunch)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Balsamic Glaze

The balsamic glaze is the star of this recipe—it’s tangy, slightly sweet, and ties all the flavors together.

In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar).
Heat over medium heat until it begins to boil gently.
Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mixture will thicken and reduce by about half.
Remove from heat and pour into a heat-proof bowl to cool. The glaze will continue to thicken as it cools. It should have a syrupy consistency that can coat the back of a spoon but not be overly thick.

2. Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and crumbled Feta cheese. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
Divide the salad into individual serving bowls or plates for easy presentation.

3. Add the Pecans and Glaze

Top each serving with whole toasted pecans and some chopped pecans for added texture.
Drizzle the balsamic glaze generously over each serving.

And voilà! Your Strawberry Spinach Salad is ready to serve.

Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad

Toast the Pecans: Toasting pecans enhances their nutty flavor and adds an extra layer of crunch. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until fragrant.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach, ripe strawberries, and high-quality balsamic vinegar for the best taste.
Customize It: Add other toppings like sliced avocado, dried cranberries, or sunflower seeds to make it your own.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the balsamic glaze in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

Nutrition Information

This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! Here’s what you get per serving:

Calories: 264
Fat: 14g (22% Daily Value)
Carbohydrates: 32g (11% DV)
Fiber: 5g (21% DV)
Protein: 5g (10% DV)
Vitamin A: 90% DV
Vitamin C: 70% DV
Calcium: 13% DV
Iron: 11% DV

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the Feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative like almond-based vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

2. What can I use instead of pecans?

If you’re allergic to pecans or simply don’t have them on hand, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

3. Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?

Yes, store-bought balsamic glaze works well if you’re short on time. However, making your own allows you to control the sweetness and flavor intensity.

4. How long will leftovers last?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh because spinach tends to wilt quickly once dressed. If you anticipate leftovers, store the salad components separately from the dressing and pecans to maintain freshness.

5. Can I add protein to make it a complete meal?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would be excellent additions to turn this salad into a hearty main dish.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe is a beautiful combination of flavors and textures that will brighten up any meal or gathering. With its sweet strawberries, tangy balsamic glaze, creamy Feta cheese, and crunchy toasted pecans, it’s a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Plus, it’s quick to make and packed with nutrients—a win-win!

So why wait? Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try today. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!