Spinach Strawberry Salad

This Spinach Strawberry Salad is a perfect harmony of vibrant flavors and textures. Sweet, juicy strawberries meet tender baby spinach, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese, all brought together with a light, tangy dressing. It’s an ideal dish for spring and summer but so good you’ll want to make it year-round. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, it’s both refreshing and satisfying.

Ingredients

For 4 servings:

• 6 cups baby spinach leaves, washed and dried
• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1/3 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds or candied pecans, toasted
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Make the Dressing
   In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using a jar, shake well until fully emulsified. Set aside.
2. Toast the Nuts
   For extra flavor and crunch, toast the sliced almonds or pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Assemble the Salad
   In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion (if using), and dried cranberries. Gently toss to mix.
4. Add the Toppings
   Sprinkle the toasted nuts and crumbled cheese over the top of the salad.
5. Dress and Serve
   Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to ensure the ingredients are evenly coated. Serve immediately.

Customization Ideas

• Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sliced avocado can turn this salad into a satisfying main course.
• Switch Up the Nuts: Walnuts, pistachios, or sunflower seeds work just as well if you don’t have almonds or pecans.
• Go Seasonal: Swap strawberries for fresh raspberries, blackberries, or even orange segments when strawberries aren’t in season.

Why This Salad Shines

The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy cheese, and tangy dressing makes every bite a flavor explosion. It’s an easy yet elegant dish that’s perfect for entertaining or elevating a weeknight dinner. The textures crisp spinach, crunchy nuts, and juicy fruit create a balance that’s as enjoyable to eat as it is to look at.

Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a barbecue, brunch, or holiday dinner, or enjoying it on its own for a healthy lunch, this Spinach Strawberry Salad is sure to become a go-to recipe in your collection!