Strawberry Spinach Salad is a healthy, vibrant, and easy-to-make recipe that comes together in 15 minutes! Featuring Feta cheese, pecans, and a simple Balsamic dressing, this salad will make a perfect side dish for any weeknight dinner. It is also a crowd-pleaser for many holiday occasions, picnics, potlucks, and other friends and family gatherings!
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Dressing
- For the Salad
- How to Make 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- Step 3: Add Toppings
- Step 4: Serve Immediately
- How to Serve 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
- As a Side Dish
- For a Potluck
- On a Buffet Table
- As a Standalone Meal
- How to Perfect 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Reheating 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad ahead of time?
- What can I substitute for feta cheese?
- How can I customize my 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad?
- Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad is ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet strawberries, tangy feta, and crunchy pecans creates a delightful flavor profile.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for an impressive meal or serve it at gatherings for a refreshing addition.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh spinach and fruit, this salad is full of vitamins and minerals.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the ingredients make this salad visually appealing.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad even easier. Gather these essentials before you start cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Salad bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Salad bowl: A large bowl allows enough space to toss all ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: Ideal for mixing the balsamic dressing smoothly, ensuring even flavor distribution.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing strawberries quick and safe.
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)
For the Salad
- 10 oz baby spinach (fresh)
- 3 cups strawberries (cleaned and hulled, sliced)
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/3 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 1 cup pecans (toasted, some of them chopped)
How to Make 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar and honey.
- Whisk until well blended. Adjust sweetness according to taste.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, add the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and blueberries.
- Toss gently to combine.
Step 3: Add Toppings
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and toasted pecans over the salad mixture.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing on top.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
- Toss everything lightly to coat with dressing just before serving.
- Enjoy your vibrant 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad!
How to Serve 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
This 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only quick to make but also versatile in its serving options. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night at home, this salad can fit any occasion.
As a Side Dish
- With Grilled Chicken: Pair the salad with grilled chicken for a healthy and filling meal.
- Alongside Fish: Serve it next to salmon or tilapia for a refreshing contrast.
For a Potluck
- In a Large Bowl: Present it in a large bowl to allow guests to help themselves easily.
- Individual Portions: Consider serving in small cups for individual servings at gatherings.
On a Buffet Table
- Colorful Display: The vibrant colors of the strawberries and spinach make it an eye-catching addition.
- Accompanied by Bread: Serve with crusty bread or rolls to complement the flavors.
As a Standalone Meal
- Added Proteins: Toss in some grilled shrimp or chickpeas to turn it into a full meal.
- With Quinoa: Mix quinoa for added texture and protein, making it more substantial.
How to Perfect 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
To achieve the best version of your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Toast Your Pecans: Toasting brings out the nuttiness of pecans, enhancing the overall taste.
- Make Dressing Ahead: Prepare the balsamic dressing in advance for added convenience.
- Mix Just Before Serving: Combine all ingredients just before serving to keep the salad crisp.
Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
Complement your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad with these delightful side dishes that enhance any meal.
- Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that adds warmth and flavor to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a hearty contrast to the freshness of the salad.
- Quinoa Pilaf: This grain dish offers additional protein and complements the salad’s lightness.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and beans add color and flavor diversity.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers are easy appetizers that pair well.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can be an elegant addition that enhances your dining experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a salad may seem simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid when preparing your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad.
- Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your spinach and strawberries. Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and texture.
- Skipping the dressing: A good dressing is key. Don’t skip the balsamic vinaigrette, as it brings the salad together and enhances the flavors.
- Overloading on toppings: While toppings like feta and pecans are delicious, too many can overwhelm the salad. Stick to the recommended amounts for balance.
- Neglecting texture: To create a satisfying bite, ensure you have a mix of crunchy and soft textures. Toast your pecans for added crunch!
- Preparing too far in advance: For the best flavor and freshness, assemble the salad just before serving, especially if using delicate greens like spinach.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The salad stays fresh for up to 2 days in the refrigerator but is best enjoyed within 24 hours.
Freezing 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
- It is not recommended to freeze this salad as it may affect the texture of the spinach and strawberries once thawed.
Reheating 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salad in an oven-safe dish for a few minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds. Stir between intervals to avoid wilting.
- Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad.
Can I make 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad ahead of time?
You can prepare individual components ahead but assemble the salad right before serving for optimal freshness.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you prefer a different flavor, try goat cheese or even avocado for creaminess in your strawberry spinach salad.
How can I customize my 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad?
Feel free to add other fruits like apples or nuts such as walnuts for variety. You can also include grilled chicken for extra protein.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! You can prepare ingredients separately and combine them on the day you plan to enjoy your salad.
Final Thoughts
The 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavors that appeal to everyone. Its vibrant colors make it perfect for any occasion from casual dinners to festive gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or proteins to suit your taste!
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15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Bright, fresh, and bursting with flavors, the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is your go-to recipe for a healthy meal or a delightful side dish. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this vibrant salad featuring sweet strawberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta cheese tossed in a simple balsamic dressing. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or picnics, this salad not only pleases the eye with its colorful presentation but also nourishes the body with wholesome ingredients. Enjoy it as a standalone meal by adding proteins or serve it as an impressive side dish with grilled chicken or fish. Make it your own by customizing with seasonal fruits or nuts!
Ingredients
- 10 oz baby spinach
- 3 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup pecans, toasted
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey until well combined.
- In a large salad bowl, combine baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and blueberries. Toss gently.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and toasted pecans over the salad mixture. Drizzle the prepared dressing on top.
- Toss lightly just before serving to coat everything evenly in dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad serving (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
