This Strawberry Spinach Salad is the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and crunchy—all tossed together with a tangy balsamic glaze that will have you coming back for seconds. It’s fresh, vibrant, and so simple to make. I love throwing this together when I want something light yet satisfying. Plus, with the sweetness of the strawberries and the nuttiness of the toasted pecans, it’s one of those salads that even salad skeptics will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Flavorful: The juicy strawberries, fresh spinach, and tangy feta cheese make every bite exciting.
- Sweet & Savory: The balsamic glaze gives the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity to complement the salad.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: This salad works just as well for a quick lunch as it does for a holiday side dish.
Ingredients
Balsamic Dressing
- Balsamic Vinegar: 1 cup for the base of the glaze.
- Honey or Brown Sugar: ¼ cup to sweeten and thicken the balsamic.
Spinach Strawberry Salad
- Baby Spinach: 10 oz fresh, for a crisp, nutrient-packed base.
- Strawberries: 3 cups, cleaned, hulled, and sliced for a sweet burst of flavor.
- Blueberries: 1 cup for an extra pop of sweetness and color.
- Feta Cheese: ⅓ cup crumbled, for a salty, tangy contrast.
- Pecans: 1 cup toasted (some chopped) for that perfect crunch.
Variations
- Add Chicken: Turn this salad into a full meal by adding grilled chicken breast.
- Switch the Cheese: Goat cheese makes a great substitute if you prefer a creamier texture.
- Different Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
How to Make the Recipe
1. Prepare the Balsamic Dressing
In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar) over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir occasionally as the mixture reduces by about half, which takes around 10 minutes. You’re aiming for a glaze thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Once it’s done, remove from heat and transfer the glaze to a heat-proof bowl to cool. As it cools, it will thicken even more into the perfect drizzle.
2. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss everything together to get a nice mix of flavors and textures.
3. Add Pecans and Dressing
Divide the salad into individual bowls or serve it family-style. Top each portion with a mix of whole and chopped toasted pecans for crunch. Finally, drizzle that beautiful balsamic glaze over the salad, adding as much or as little as you like. The sweetness of the glaze pairs beautifully with the tangy feta and fresh berries!
How to Serve
- As a Side Dish: This salad is perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or holiday dinners.
- For Lunch: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a filling and refreshing lunch.
- With a Sandwich: Serve it alongside a sandwich or wrap for a light, balanced meal.
Make Ahead
- Balsamic Glaze: You can prepare the balsamic glaze ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just bring it to room temperature before using.
- Salad: Prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time, but keep them separate until ready to serve to prevent the spinach from wilting.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought balsamic glaze works just as well. Just drizzle it over the salad before serving.
Can I substitute other greens for spinach?
Yes, mixed greens or arugula would work great in this salad if you prefer something a bit peppery or milder.
Do I have to toast the pecans?
Toasting the pecans brings out their nutty flavor and adds extra crunch, but you can skip this step if you’re short on time.
This Strawberry Spinach Salad is light, fresh, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a main course, it’s sure to be a hit! The sweetness of the berries, the crunch of the pecans, and that tangy balsamic glaze—trust me, it’s a salad you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy!