Impossibly delicious and colorfully vibrant, a Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad is like a sunny day on a plate. Imagine biting into the juicy sweetness of fresh strawberries mixed with the crispness of tender spinach leaves as they dance together in a delightful harmony of flavors. This refreshing dish whispers promises of picnics in the park and lazy summer afternoons under shady trees.
Growing up, my family often prepared this salad during our backyard barbecues. The laughter of friends and family blending with the sweet aroma of strawberries always made this salad feel special. It’s perfect for any occasion—from casual lunches to fancy dinner parties—when you want to impress without breaking a sweat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad comes together quickly, making it an effortless dish to prepare
- Its sweet and tangy flavor balance makes it irresistible
- The bright colors create an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal
- Suitable for various dietary preferences, this salad can be easily modified to suit your taste
Happiness ensued when I first served this salad at a gathering; everyone raved about it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Spinach: Choose dark green leaves for maximum freshness and nutrition; wash thoroughly to remove any dirt.
- Ripe Strawberries: Opt for sweet, juicy strawberries that are bright red; hull them for easy eating.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a zesty crunch that balances the sweetness; soak in cold water to mellow the flavor.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings a creamy texture and salty flavor that enhances the overall taste; use goat cheese if preferred.
- Pecan Halves: Lightly toasted pecans add a satisfying crunch; chop them roughly for easier mixing.
- Balsamic Vinaigrette: A homemade or store-bought vinaigrette elevates the flavors; drizzle generously over the salad before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Greens: Start by washing your fresh spinach thoroughly under cold running water. Gently pat dry with kitchen towels or spin in a salad spinner until dry.
Slice Those Strawberries: Hull your ripe strawberries using a paring knife or strawberry huller. Slice them into thin pieces that will beautifully adorn your salad.
Add Some Zing with Onions: Take your red onion and slice it thinly. If you find raw onions too strong, soak them briefly in cold water to tone down their bite.
Toss in Feta and Pecans: Crumble feta cheese over your prepared greens and sprinkle toasted pecan halves on top for added crunchiness and depth of flavor.
Dress It Up!: Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the entire mixture—don’t be shy! Toss gently until everything is well-coated without bruising those delicate greens.
Serve with Style!: Transfer your colorful creation onto a serving platter or individual bowls. Enjoy immediately while freshness lasts!
This Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only simple but also bursting with flavor! With each bite, you’ll find yourself transported to warm summer days filled with laughter and good company. So grab those ingredients and let’s create some culinary magic!
You Must Know
- This classic strawberry spinach salad not only refreshes your palate but also offers a delightful crunch
- The vibrant colors and sweet-tart flavors create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual lunches to elegant dinners
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by washing and drying the spinach thoroughly to prevent sogginess. Slice strawberries just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in other berries like blueberries or raspberries. Add feta cheese for creaminess or nuts for added crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Keep dressing separate until ready to serve.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best results, always use fresh spinach and ripe strawberries
- Avoid cutting the spinach too early to maintain its crispness
- Don’t drown your salad in dressing; less is more!
I once made this classic strawberry spinach salad for a picnic, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about it. They even suggested I should start a salad business!
FAQ
Can I make classic strawberry spinach salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the ingredients but add dressing just before serving for freshness.
What can I substitute for spinach in this salad?
Kale or arugula can be great alternatives if you prefer a stronger flavor.
How do I enhance the flavor of the dressing?
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or honey for extra sweetness and depth.
Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
A vibrant and refreshing Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad combines sweet strawberries and crisp spinach, making it the perfect dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups ripe strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup pecan halves, lightly toasted
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Wash and dry the spinach thoroughly to maintain its crispness.
- Hull and slice the strawberries into thin pieces.
- Thinly slice the red onion; soak in cold water briefly if desired to mellow its flavor.
- In a large bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, red onion, feta cheese, and pecans.
- Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately on a platter or in individual bowls.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (200g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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