Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze

Berry spinach salad with pecans, feta, and balsamic glaze is a delightful dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. Ideal for summer cookouts, potlucks, or a light lunch, this salad combines vibrant strawberries, juicy blackberries, and fresh baby spinach. Topped with crispy prosciutto and a rich balsamic glaze, it offers a unique flavor profile that will impress your guests and brighten up any meal.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For Toasting in the Oven
• Balsamic Dressing
• Spinach Strawberry Salad
• How to Make Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze
• Step 1: Toast the Pecans and Prosciutto
• Step 2: Prepare Balsamic Glaze
• Step 3: Assemble the Salad
• How to Serve Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze
• As a Refreshing Starter
• Pair with Grilled Meats
• Picnic Delight
• Lunch Box Option
• Dinner Party Accompaniment
• On Top of Grain Bowls
• How to Perfect Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze
• Best Side Dishes for Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze
• Reheating Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different fruits in my Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze?
• How long can I store my Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze?
• What can I substitute for feta cheese?
• Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
• Can I make this Berry Spinach Salad vegetarian?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of strawberries and blackberries creates a refreshing taste that bursts with summer flavors.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal cooking time, this salad comes together quickly for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or main dish, it fits well into various occasions—from family dinners to elegant parties.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from the spinach and berries, plus healthy fats from pecans, this salad is as good for you as it is delicious.
• Impressive Presentation: The colorful ingredients make for an eye-catching dish that will impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Making the berry spinach salad with pecans, feta, and balsamic glaze requires only a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and help you achieve great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Small saucepan
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Necessary for toasting the pecans and prosciutto evenly without sticking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking on the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
• Small saucepan: Ideal for reducing the balsamic vinegar into a glaze that adds depth to your salad.

Ingredients

For Toasting in the Oven

• 4 oz prosciutto (toasted)
• ⅔ cup pecans (toasted; some chopped)

Balsamic Dressing

• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup honey or brown sugar

Spinach Strawberry Salad

• 6 oz fresh baby spinach
• 3 cups strawberries (cleaned, hulled, sliced)
• 1 cup blackberries
• ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese

How to Make Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze

Step 1: Toast the Pecans and Prosciutto

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Spread the pecans and torn prosciutto on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Toast them in the oven for about 5 to 10 minutes until the nuts become slightly darker and the prosciutto crisps up.

Step 2: Prepare Balsamic Glaze

1. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey over medium heat.
2. Bring to a gentle boil.
3. Reduce heat to simmer and cook while stirring until thickened (this should take about 10 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and transfer to a heat-proof bowl to cool. The glaze will thicken further as it cools.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine all salad ingredients except for the toasted pecans and prosciutto.
2. Toss gently to mix everything together.
3. Divide into individual serving bowls.
4. Top each bowl with toasted prosciutto and whole/chopped toasted pecans.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over each serving before enjoying!

Feel free to explore variations on this recipe by substituting different fruits or nuts based on your preferences!

How to Serve Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze

Serving your berry spinach salad with pecans, feta, and balsamic glaze can elevate your dining experience. This salad is not only vibrant and delicious but also versatile enough to complement various meals. Here are some creative ways to serve it.

As a Refreshing Starter

• Start your meal with small portions of the salad on appetizer plates. The fresh flavors will awaken your palate for the main course.

Pair with Grilled Meats

• The sweetness of strawberries and blackberries pairs well with grilled chicken or steak. Serve the salad alongside your favorite grilled dish for a delightful contrast.

Picnic Delight

• Pack individual servings of the salad in mason jars for an easy picnic option. Just layer the ingredients carefully to keep them fresh until you’re ready to eat.

Lunch Box Option

• This salad makes for a perfect lunch! Pack it in a container and add a side of whole-grain bread or crackers for a filling meal.

Dinner Party Accompaniment

• Present the berry spinach salad as a stunning centerpiece on your dining table. Its colorful ingredients will impress your guests and enhance any dinner spread.

On Top of Grain Bowls

• Use this salad as a topping for grain bowls featuring quinoa or farro. The textures and flavors will create a satisfying dish that feels wholesome and complete.

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How to Perfect Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze

To achieve the best results with your berry spinach salad, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest baby spinach and ripe berries for maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Toast Your Nuts: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and adds crunch to the salad. Don’t skip this step!
• Balance Flavors: Adjust the amount of honey in your balsamic glaze according to your taste preference for sweetness.
• Serve Immediately: For optimal freshness, serve the salad right after assembling it; this keeps spinach crisp and berries firm.
• Add Protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas to boost protein content.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like goat cheese or blue cheese if you want to switch up flavors while keeping it interesting.

Best Side Dishes for Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze

This berry spinach salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender pieces of chicken marinated in herbs complement the freshness of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish seasoned with lemon zest provides a nutty base that works well alongside the vibrant salad.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds satisfying crunch and richness that balances the tanginess of feta.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables brings warmth and earthiness that contrasts nicely with fresh greens.
5. Caprese Salad: This classic Italian dish of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers bright flavors that echo those in your berry spinach salad.
6. Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits can serve as a refreshing palate cleanser after enjoying this colorful salad.
7. Cheese Board: An assortment of cheeses paired with nuts and dried fruits creates an elegant addition to your meal.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa make for a hearty side that complements the lightness of the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a berry spinach salad with pecans, feta, and balsamic glaze, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or low-quality produce can ruin your salad’s flavor. Always choose fresh berries and greens for the best taste.

• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much balsamic glaze can overwhelm the other flavors. Start with a little dressing and add more to taste.

• Not Toasting Nuts: Failing to toast the pecans can result in a bland texture. Toast them in the oven for enhanced flavor and crunch.

• Ignoring Seasonality: Using out-of-season ingredients may compromise freshness and taste. Opt for seasonal berries for the best results.

• Assembling Too Early: Prepping your salad too far ahead can lead to soggy greens. Assemble right before serving for maximum freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It’s best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat.

Freezing Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of greens and fruits will change when thawed.
• If you have leftover components, consider freezing only the toasted pecans.

Reheating Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Warm the salad on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes without dressing.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds until warm but not hot; avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat just until warmed through; be careful not to wilt the greens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making berry spinach salad with pecans, feta, and balsamic glaze:

Can I use different fruits in my Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze?

Yes! Feel free to swap strawberries or blackberries with other seasonal fruits like blueberries or raspberries for variety.

How long can I store my Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze?

You can store it in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. For best quality, keep the dressing separate until serving.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or even crumbled blue cheese as alternatives if you’re looking for different flavors or textures.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare individual components ahead of time and combine them right before serving for freshness.

Can I make this Berry Spinach Salad vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit prosciutto or bacon to make it a delightful vegetarian option without sacrificing flavor.

Final Thoughts

The berry spinach salad with pecans, feta, and balsamic glaze is a refreshing and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant colors and flavors make it an ideal choice for summer gatherings or as a light lunch. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite toppings or dressings—enjoy experimenting!