Description
A fresh and vibrant Spinach Strawberry Salad featuring tender spinach leaves, sweet strawberries, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy candied pecans, all tossed in a tangy homemade balsamic dressing. This salad is perfect for a quick, healthy, and visually appealing meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 5 oz spinach or baby kale, washed (about 5 cups)
- 1 lb strawberries, washed, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup candied pecans
Dressing
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon raw honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the produce: Wash and dry the spinach or baby kale thoroughly to remove any dirt. Wash the strawberries, hull them by removing the green tops, and slice them evenly to ensure consistent texture and taste throughout the salad.
- Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the washed spinach, sliced strawberries, and crumbled feta or goat cheese. This mixture creates the base of your fresh salad.
- Make the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze or vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, raw honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the dressing is emulsified and smooth.
- Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the spinach mixture just before serving to keep the greens crisp. Toss gently but thoroughly so every leaf and slice of strawberry is coated with the dressing.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the candied pecans over the top for added crunch and sweetness, then serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute the feta cheese with vegan cheese or omit it entirely.
- Use fresh strawberries in season for the best flavor.
- Make the dressing fresh to maintain the salad’s crispness; avoid adding dressing too far in advance.
- Candied pecans can be homemade or store-bought; lightly toast for extra flavor if desired.
- If you prefer, baby kale can be used instead of spinach for more texture and a slightly earthier flavor.
