Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

If you’re looking for a refreshing dish that brightens up any meal, you’ve come to the right place! This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is one of my all-time favorites. The combination of sweet strawberries and creamy avocado, paired with a tangy vinaigrette, makes this salad not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a summer gathering, this salad is sure to impress!

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip together. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish the body while keeping your taste buds happy. Plus, it serves wonderfully as a light lunch or as a vibrant side dish at any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for when you’re short on time; you can have this salad ready in just 20 minutes!
• Fresh and Flavorful: The juicy strawberries and zesty dressing create an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Flexible Ingredients: Feel free to mix in your favorite toppings or substitute ingredients based on what you have.
• Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with nutrients and healthy fats, this salad will keep you feeling full without weighing you down.
• Beautiful Presentation: The colorful layers make it an eye-catching addition to any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Each component adds something special to the Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic, making it truly delightful.

For the Salad:

• 1 package (5 ounces) organic spinach
• 8 ounces strawberries, halved (about 2 cups halved strawberries)
• 1 large avocado, sliced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup feta crumbles
• ⅓ cup raw sliced almonds
• ¼ cup chopped shelled roasted pistachios

For the Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, grated or finely minced
• ½ teaspoon dijon mustard
• ½ tablespoon strawberry jam (or jam of choice)
• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste

Variations

This salad is wonderfully versatile! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up based on your preferences:

• Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Swap the Cheese: Try goat cheese or nutritional yeast if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
• Mix in Seasonal Fruits: Feel free to add blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches during their peak season.
• Change Up the Nuts: Substitute walnuts or pecans if you want a different crunch.

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a mason jar or small bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients. This step is crucial because shaking or mixing them well ensures all those flavors meld together beautifully. Taste it afterward—adding more salt and pepper if needed—so it’s perfect for your palate!

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

Toast the almonds over medium heat in a pan for 2-5 minutes until they are slightly golden brown. This step brings out their nutty flavor and adds that crunch we all love! Just be sure to stir occasionally so they don’t burn, then let them cool before adding them to your salad.

Step 3: Assemble Your Salad

In a large bowl, layer on your fresh spinach first, followed by strawberries, avocado slices, red onion, feta crumbles, toasted almonds, and pistachios. You can add the dressing now or serve it on the side so everyone can customize their serving. Top each bowl with extra toasted almonds and drizzle with one-fourth of that delightful dressing. And there you have it—serves four people happily!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Creating the perfect strawberry spinach salad is all about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some tips to elevate your dish!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh strawberries and crisp spinach make a world of difference in taste and texture. When possible, visit your local farmer’s market for the best produce.
• Toast your nuts: Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and adds a lovely crunch. It only takes a few minutes on medium heat to bring out their natural oils and deepen their taste.
• Customize your dressing: Feel free to adjust the balsamic vinaigrette according to your palate. Adding more strawberry jam will increase sweetness, while an extra splash of balsamic vinegar can ramp up the tanginess.
• Layer thoughtfully: When assembling the salad, layer your ingredients in a way that allows each component to shine. This not only looks beautiful but ensures every bite has a bit of everything!
• Serve immediately: For the freshest experience, serve the salad right after dressing it. If you’re preparing it in advance, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Presentation can elevate any dish, and this vibrant salad is no exception! Whether you’re hosting a casual lunch or a dinner party, here are some delightful ways to present your strawberry spinach salad.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprinkle of chopped mint adds an aromatic freshness that complements the strawberries beautifully.
• Crumbled goat cheese: If you want a creamier texture, swapping feta for goat cheese can provide a deliciously tangy contrast.
• Edible flowers: For an elegant touch, add edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies on top of the salad for color and flair.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa pilaf: This nutty side dish pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy flavors of your salad. Cook quinoa with vegetable broth and toss in herbs for added flavor.
• Grilled chicken breast: For those looking for protein options, grilled chicken is light yet satisfying. Season simply with salt, pepper, and lemon zest to keep it fresh.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies—like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus—adds warmth and depth alongside this refreshing salad.
• Garlic bread: For a comforting touch, serve some warm garlic bread on the side. Its crispy texture contrasts well with the soft ingredients of the salad.

Enjoy crafting these delicious combinations as you share your beautiful strawberry spinach salad with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is perfect for meal prep! You can enjoy it fresh or save some for later, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays or gatherings. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• If you’ve added dressing, consume within 1-2 days for the best flavor and freshness.
• If you haven’t added dressing, the salad can last up to 3 days.

Freezing

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the spinach and strawberries do not thaw well and may become mushy.
• Instead, prepare each component separately and assemble fresh when ready to serve.

Reheating

• This salad is best enjoyed cold, so there is no need to reheat.
• If you prefer a warm version, consider gently warming the ingredients (excluding the spinach) in a skillet before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious salad!

Can I make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all the components ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

What variations can I try for this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic?

Feel free to experiment! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans, use different cheeses such as goat cheese, or even mix in other fruits like blueberries or mandarin oranges.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep. Just store each ingredient separately and combine them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.

Can I substitute the feta cheese in this recipe?

Yes! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option or just want something different, try using crumbled tofu or omit the cheese altogether.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will stay fresh for about 1-3 days depending on whether you’ve added dressing.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is truly special! With its vibrant colors and delightful mix of flavors and textures, it’s sure to brighten any table. I hope you enjoy making this refreshing dish as much as I do. Whether it’s for a casual lunch or a festive gathering, it’s bound to impress! Happy cooking!