Name: Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad in Just 15 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar (substitute with red wine vinegar if desired); 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar for sweetness); 6 cups baby spinach (or arugula for a peppery kick); 1 cup fresh strawberries (sliced); 1/2 cup blueberries (optional; can substitute with diced ripe peaches); 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled; or use goat cheese); 1/3 cup pecans (optional; can substitute with almonds or walnuts)

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As I tossed the mix of vibrant greens and ruby-red strawberries together, the kitchen instantly transformed into a summer oasis. This 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a simple, healthy dish that brings together light, fresh flavors with minimal effort. Perfect for those busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings, this salad is sure to impress—it’s quick to whip up and flexible enough to suit everyone’s taste buds. Whether you’re gluten-free or just looking for a refreshing vegetarian option, this salad, with its creamy feta and crunchy pecans, offers something for everyone. Are you ready to take a bite of summer? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Salad a Must-Try?

Simplicity: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a delicious dish that doesn’t require culinary expertise.
Vibrant Flavors: The combination of juicy strawberries and peppery spinach delivers a refreshing taste that is perfect for summer.
Endless Variations: Feel free to swap out ingredients like pecans or feta to cater to your dietary preferences or what’s in your pantry.
Nutrient-Packed: This salad is packed with vitamins and healthy fats, making it a guilt-free choice that satisfies your cravings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether served at a picnic or as a side at dinner, this salad is sure to impress guests, just like our Roll Cucumber Salad does!

Strawberry Spinach Salad Ingredients

For the Dressing
• Balsamic Vinegar – Adds acidity and depth to the salad; you can substitute with red wine vinegar for a different flavor profile.
• Honey or Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness to balance the tang of the vinegar, and maple syrup makes a great vegan alternative.

For the Salad
• Baby Spinach – The base of the salad, offering a mild flavor and crisp texture; consider using arugula for a peppery kick.
• Strawberries – Fresh and juicy, these add a delightful sweetness; you can substitute with raspberries or blueberries if desired.
• Blueberries – Adds additional sweetness and vibrant color; can be omitted or replaced with diced ripe peaches for a tropical twist.
• Feta Cheese – Crumbled for a creamy, salty contrast; goat cheese or nutritional yeast are great dairy-free options.
• Pecans – Provide crunch and nuttiness; feel free to substitute with almonds or walnuts for varied texture.

With these ingredients, you’re all set to create the most delicious and refreshing Strawberry Spinach Salad!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Spinach Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons of honey over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The dressing should thicken and reduce by half, creating a syrupy consistency. Once done, remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly, which will help it thicken further.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
While the balsamic dressing cools, wash and dry 6 cups of baby spinach, then place it in a large salad bowl. Next, slice 1 cup of fresh strawberries and, if using, rinse and add 1/2 cup of blueberries to the bowl. Toss the spinach and fruits gently together to combine them beautifully, making sure the bright colors are visibly mixed.

Step 3: Add the Cheese and Nuts
Crumbled feta cheese adds a creamy contrast, so sprinkle 1/2 cup over the spinach and fruit mixture. To enhance the crunch, add 1/3 cup of pecans, either pre-toasted in a dry skillet for extra flavor or fresh. Toss the salad again gently to evenly distribute the cheese and nuts, ensuring everyone gets a taste of these delicious components.

Step 4: Portion the Salad
Using a large serving spoon, divide the prepared Strawberry Spinach Salad into individual bowls. This way, each bowl maintains the vibrant colors and textures. Ensure that each serving gets an appealing mix of spinach, strawberries, blueberries, feta, and pecans for a beautiful presentation that pleases the eye as much as the palate.

Step 5: Drizzle with Dressing
Finally, take your cooled balsamic glaze and drizzle it generously over each bowl of salad. Aim for an even coverage to enhance the flavors in every bite, but keep the glaze on the side if you prefer to allow guests to control their servings. This final step elevates your Strawberry Spinach Salad into a stunning dish, perfect for any occasion.

Expert Tips for Strawberry Spinach Salad

Dressing Thickness: Make sure your balsamic glaze reduces enough to coat the back of a spoon; this ensures a perfect, thick consistency that clings to the salad without being runny.
Freshness Matters: Dress the salad immediately before serving to keep the spinach crisp. If preparing ahead, store the dressing separately and drizzle just before enjoying.
Nutty Flavor Boost: Toast your pecans in a dry skillet for a few minutes until fragrant. This simple step enhances their flavor and adds delicious crunch to your Strawberry Spinach Salad.
Berry Variations: While strawberries are the star, feel free to swap in seasonal fruits! Raspberries or even sliced peaches can switch up the flavor profile beautifully.
Cheese Choices: If vegan or dairy-free, opt for nutritional yeast or crumble some avocado instead of feta. It still adds creaminess without the dairy.

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Spinach Salad

Fridge: Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the crispness of the spinach.

Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled salad as the texture of spinach and berries may wilt and become mushy upon thawing.

Preparation: If making ahead, chop and prepare the ingredients and store separately. Combine them with the dressing right before serving for optimal freshness.

Reheating: Since this salad is served cold, simply enjoy straight from the fridge. No reheating is necessary.

Make Ahead Options

This 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can wash and dry the baby spinach and slice the strawberries up to 24 hours in advance. Store the spinach in an airtight container, and layer the strawberries on top with a paper towel to absorb moisture and prevent browning. The balsamic dressing can be made ahead as well and kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just before serving, combine all the ingredients, add the pecans, and drizzle with the dressing for a fresh, vibrant salad that’s just as delicious as if you made it from scratch that day!

What to Serve with 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

A vibrant Strawberry Spinach Salad is a refreshing centerpiece, but it can shine even brighter with the perfect accompaniments to round out your meal.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated chicken adds heartiness, making the meal substantial and satisfying.
Quinoa Pilaf: Light and fluffy, this protein-packed side balances the salad’s freshness and keeps your meal wholesome.
Crusty Artisan Bread: Perfect for scooping up salad or soaking up the balsamic glaze, this bread adds comforting texture.
Pasta Primavera: This colorful vegetable pasta dish complements the salad’s lightness while contributing additional flavors and textures.
Watermelon Feta Salad: Dive into another refreshing option! The sweetness of watermelon enhances the salad’s experience and adds a fun twist.
Iced Green Tea: A light, refreshing beverage that complements the fruity notes without overpowering the meal.
Coconut Chia Pudding: For dessert, this creamy and naturally sweet dish rounds off your meal nicely, keeping it light and flavorful.
Mixed Berry Smoothie: A frozen treat that not only looks gorgeous but mirrors the salad’s fresh fruit vibe for a cohesive theme.

Strawberry Spinach Salad Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and transform this delightful salad into your own personal masterpiece!

Vegan Option: Replace feta with avocado or nutritional yeast to maintain creaminess without dairy.
Avocado brings a buttery texture and healthy fats, making it an ideal substitute that still satisfies.
Fruit Swaps: Use seasonal fruits like peaches or apples instead of strawberries for a unique twist.
Each fruit brings its own sweetness, adding new layers of flavor and an exciting surprise with every bite!
Crunchy Alternatives: Swap pecans with almonds or walnuts for varied crunch and nutty flavor.
Each nut has its distinct taste and texture, allowing you to customize your salad according to your mood.
Heat Level: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that elevates the dish.
The heat pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the fruit, creating a wonderfully balanced flavor explosion.
Creamy Dressing: Try a poppy seed dressing instead of balsamic glaze for a creamy, dreamy finish.
This sweet and tangy alternative complements the fruit’s sweetness while adding a lovely texture.
Honey Substitution: Use agave syrup in place of honey for a vegan dressing option that’s just as sweet.
Agave syrup has a similar taste but a lower glycemic index, offering a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Grain Boost: Add cooked quinoa or farro to turn this salad into a heartier meal perfect for lunch.
These grains add protein and fiber, making it satisfying enough to stand alone as a meal. For a side dish, check out our scrumptious Crack Corn Salad.

By mixing and matching these variations, you can make your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad uniquely yours! Enjoy the endless possibilities!

Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe strawberries for the salad?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red in color, firm to the touch, and free of blemishes or dark spots. Avoid those that are overly soft or have dull skin, as they might not have the best flavor. If you can, buy them from a local farmer’s market for the freshest taste!

What is the best way to store leftover salad?
To keep your Strawberry Spinach Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the dressing separately; this will help prevent the spinach from wilting and losing its crispness. When ready to enjoy, simply drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.

Can I freeze Strawberry Spinach Salad?
It’s best not to freeze assembled salads, especially with delicate ingredients like spinach and berries, as they tend to lose their texture and become mushy. However, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, combine the ingredients and drizzle with dressing!

What should I do if my balsamic glaze is too runny?
No problem! If your balsamic glaze didn’t thicken enough, return it to the stove and simmer it on low heat. Keep stirring until it reduces to about half its volume and coats the back of a spoon. This will enhance the flavor and give you that glossy, syrupy texture you’re looking for.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Great question! This Strawberry Spinach Salad is quite versatile. For a gluten-free option, simply ensure that your dressing ingredients (like vinegar) are gluten-free. If you have nut allergies, replace pecans with seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds for that needed crunch. And for a dairy-free variation, substitute feta with nutritional yeast or creamy avocado.

How can I incorporate other fruits into this salad?
The more the merrier! You can easily customize your Strawberry Spinach Salad by adding seasonal fruits like sliced peaches, raspberries, or even pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and flavor. Try a mix of your favorites to keep things exciting and delicious!