If you’re looking for a vibrant, fresh, and utterly delicious salad that feels like sunshine on your plate, this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta and Balsamic Dressing Recipe is an absolute must-try. The juicy sweetness of strawberries pairs beautifully with the creamy tang of feta cheese, all tossed together with tender spinach leaves and topped with crunchy candied pecans. The balsamic dressing adds just the right touch of sweetness and acidity to bring all these wonderful flavors together in perfect harmony. It’s simple, quick, and guaranteed to brighten up any meal or gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this salad plays a crucial role, blending flavors and textures that balance each other perfectly. From the fresh, leafy spinach providing a subtle earthiness to the sweet, ripe strawberries giving bursts of juiciness, it’s a harmonious combination that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
- 5 oz spinach or baby kale: Make sure it’s fresh and thoroughly washed to keep the salad crisp and vibrant.
- 1 lb strawberries: Fresh, ripe, and sliced evenly for a sweet and juicy contrast.
- 1/2 cup feta cheese: Crumbled for creamy, salty richness; goat cheese works great too for a milder touch.
- 1/4 cup candied pecans: Adds delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness.
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar: The star of the dressing with its rich, tangy flavor.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: Offers smoothness and helps blend the dressing evenly.
- 1 tablespoon raw honey: Provides a natural sweetness that balances the acidity.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Lends a slight kick and emulsifies the dressing beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: To season perfectly and enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta and Balsamic Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Greens and Berries
Start by washing and drying the spinach and strawberries thoroughly. This step is key to keeping your salad fresh and crisp. Then hull and slice the strawberries into even pieces so that each bite offers consistent sweetness.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the spinach, sliced strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese. This creates a perfect base where every forkful promises a balance of fresh greens, juicy fruit, and creamy cheese.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar or glaze, extra virgin olive oil, raw honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and emulsified, ready to coat the salad with its vibrant flavor.
Step 4: Dress and Toss
Just before serving, pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure every leaf and slice is evenly coated. This keeps each bite flavorful without being soggy.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
Sprinkle candied pecans generously on top for a sweet crunch that complements the softness of the spinach and strawberries perfectly. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta and Balsamic Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond candied pecans, consider adding fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of black sesame seeds for an unexpected twist. These garnishes add a burst of color and a hint of complexity to the already delicious salad.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with simple grilled chicken or fish. Its light, refreshing nature balances out heartier mains, making it perfect for summer barbecues or casual dinners with friends.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the salad in clear glass bowls or on large rustic platters where the red strawberries can really pop visually against the green spinach. You can also skewer strawberry and feta bites on toothpicks as a fun appetizer variation inspired by the salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salad without the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the balsamic dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent the greens from wilting. It’s best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days.
Freezing
This spinach strawberry salad with feta and balsamic dressing recipe does not freeze well due to the fresh nature of the ingredients. Freezing will alter the texture, especially of the strawberries and greens, so it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh.
Reheating
Since this salad is designed to be fresh and crisp, reheating is not recommended. If you must, simply allow leftovers to come to room temperature and give the salad a gentle toss with fresh dressing before serving.
FAQs
Can I use baby kale instead of spinach?
Absolutely! Baby kale works just as beautifully and offers a slightly heartier texture while still absorbing the flavors of the dressing wonderfully.
Is there a substitute for balsamic glaze?
If you don’t have balsamic glaze, regular balsamic vinegar mixed with a little honey makes an excellent replacement. The glaze simply adds more sweetness and thickness.
How do I make candied pecans at home?
Simply toast pecans in a pan with a bit of sugar and a pinch of salt until caramelized. Let them cool to harden for that perfect crunch topping on your salad.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas add protein and make this salad into a more filling meal without overpowering its fresh flavors.
What’s the best way to slice strawberries for the salad?
Try to slice strawberries evenly and not too thick, about 1/4 inch slices work best for balanced bites and elegant presentation.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta and Balsamic Dressing Recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it’s so fresh, colorful, and bursting with flavor. It’s incredibly easy to make but feels special enough for any occasion. Trust me, once you try it, this salad will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation, perfect for welcoming spring, summer, and beyond.
Print
Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta and Balsamic Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant spinach strawberry salad featuring tender baby spinach, juicy strawberries, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy candied pecans, all tossed in a sweet and tangy homemade balsamic dressing. Perfect for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal or side dish in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 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 Ingredients
- 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 and Wash Greens and Fruit: Wash and dry the spinach and strawberries thoroughly to remove any dirt and ensure freshness.
- Slice Strawberries: Hull the strawberries by removing the green leafy tops, then slice them evenly for a uniform texture.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese to build the base of your salad.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, raw honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is emulsified and well combined.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
- Toss Salad: Gently toss the salad until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle candied pecans over the top as a crunchy, sweet finishing touch and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Substitute goat cheese if feta isn’t available or preferred.
- For a nut-free option, omit candied pecans or replace with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.
- Adjust honey and mustard quantities in the dressing to taste for a sweeter or tangier profile.
- Serve immediately after dressing to prevent spinach from wilting.
- This salad can be easily doubled for larger groups.
