Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe That’s Simple & Delicious

Looking for a vibrant salad that’s as delicious as it is nutritious? Whether you’re a health enthusiast, a salad lover, or a home chef searching for an easy yet impressive dish, this Strawberry Spinach Salad recipe is here to brighten your plate.

Packed with fresh ingredients, nutrition, and a medley of flavors, it’s perfect for a summer lunch, side dish, or even as the star of your dinner table.

Stick around to learn how to make this flavorful salad, plus tips for customizing it to suit your taste buds and dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Spinach Salad

This salad is anything but boring. It combines fresh, vibrant produce and textures with the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors. Here’s what makes it so special:

Bursting with Nutrition: Spinach is packed with vitamins A and K, while strawberries add antioxidants and a sweet zing.
Super Easy to Make: With minimal prep, this salad comes together in less than 15 minutes.
Customizable: Think crunchy nuts, creamy cheeses, or a protein boost with chicken or chickpeas.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s perfect for everything from casual lunches to dinner parties.

Now, let's get to the main highlight - how to prepare this delicious salad in just a few simple steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Strawberry Spinach Salad uses a handful of fresh, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here's what you'll need to gather:

For the Salad:

Fresh Spinach (6 cups) - Washed, dried, and tender baby spinach is best.
Strawberries (1 cup) - Sliced, ripe, and juicy strawberries.
Red Onion (¼ cup) - Thinly sliced for a mild, zesty kick.
Almonds or Pecans (¼ cup) - Toasted for crunch (optional substitution: walnuts).
Feta or Goat Cheese (½ cup) - Crumbled for a creamy, tangy flavor.

For the Dressing:

Olive Oil (3 tbsp) - Extra virgin for a fruity, rich base.
Balsamic Vinegar (2 tbsp) - Adds a sweet and tangy depth.
Honey or Maple Syrup (1 tbsp) - Natural sweetness to complement the strawberries.
Dijon Mustard (1 tsp) - For a bit of tang and to emulsify the dressing.
Salt and Pepper - To taste, perfectly balancing the flavors.

Pro Tip: For a gluten-free option, ensure your mustard and other seasonings are certified gluten-free.

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad

This salad comes together in three simple steps. You'll have a fresh, stunning creation that looks as good as it tastes.

1. Prep the Ingredients

Wash and dry the baby spinach and strawberries thoroughly. A salad spinner works wonders for this step!
Slice the strawberries and red onions thinly. Toast your almonds or pecans in a dry skillet for a minute or two to enhance their flavor.

2. Make the Dressing

Whisk the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until fully combined. Alternatively, shake the dressing ingredients in a mason jar for easy, mess-free preparation.

3. Assemble the Salad

Place the spinach in a large salad bowl. Layer the strawberries, red onions, toasted nuts, and crumbled cheese on top.
Drizzle the dressing evenly over the ingredients and toss gently until everything is coated. If serving later, store the dressing separately and add just before serving to maintain freshness.

And voila! Your Strawberry Spinach Salad is ready to be devoured.

Customization Ideas

This salad is a great canvas for all kinds of variations. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can turn it into a filling meal.
Switch the Greens: Arugula or mixed greens make a great spinach alternative.
Fruit Swap: Substitute strawberries with blueberries, pomegranate arils, or sliced apples for a seasonal twist.
Add Grains: Quinoa or farro adds texture and makes it even more satisfying.
Nut-Free Option: Swap out nuts for sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

Tasting Notes and Pairing Suggestions

This salad truly shines in its contrasts! You’ll experience the sweetness of the strawberries, the creaminess of the cheese, the crisp spinach, and the crunchiness of the toasted nuts with every bite.

Pair it with these suggestions to elevate your meal:

Drinks: A crisp white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) or iced lime water pairs beautifully.
Main Dishes: Grilled salmon, chicken breast, or even a crusty slice of sourdough bread completes this fresh dish.
Dessert: Keep it light with a scoop of sorbet or a fruit tart.

Why This Salad Deserves a Place in Your Rotation

If you're looking for a salad that offers unbeatable flavor, nutritional value, and ease of preparation, this Strawberry Spinach Salad ticks all the boxes. It’s a dish you’ll come back to time and time again, whether you're hosting guests or prepping a weekday lunch.

Get creative with your toppings, experiment with dressings, and most importantly, enjoy every bite.

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