Strawberry Spinach Salad
Strawberry spinach salad is a delightful, refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the earthy taste of spinach. This salad is not only visually appealing with its vibrant colors but also a nutritional powerhouse.
Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it makes for a perfect light meal or a side dish to complement any main course.
This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious strawberry spinach salad with a tangy dressing that brings out the best of its ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 6 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds or pecans, chopped
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
Wash and Dry the Spinach: Thoroughly wash the spinach leaves under cold water to remove any dirt. Spin them dry in a salad spinner or pat dry with paper towels.
Hull and Slice the Strawberries: Remove the stems from the strawberries and slice them into thin pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Slice the Red Onion: Thinly slice the red onion and add it to the mixing bowl with the strawberries.
Toast the Nuts: If using raw almonds or pecans, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are golden brown and fragrant. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Let them cool slightly before chopping.
Dice the Avocado and Slice the Cucumber: If you’re using avocado and cucumber, dice the avocado into bite-sized pieces and slice the cucumber. Add these to the mixing bowl.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
Combine Dressing Ingredients: In a small bowl or a mason jar, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Mix the Dressing: Whisk the ingredients together until well combined. If using a mason jar, shake the jar until the dressing is emulsified.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Combine Salad Ingredients: In the large mixing bowl with the strawberries, red onion, avocado, and cucumber, add the fresh spinach leaves.
Add Cheese and Nuts: Add the crumbled feta cheese (if using) and the toasted nuts to the bowl.
Pour Dressing Over Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients.
Toss the Salad: Gently toss the salad to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 4: Serve
Plate the Salad: Divide the salad among individual serving plates or bowls. Ensure each serving has a good mix of spinach, strawberries, cheese, nuts, and other vegetables.
Garnish (Optional): For an extra touch, garnish the salad with a few whole strawberries, additional nuts, or a sprinkle of feta cheese.
Chef’s Note
Strawberry Variations: If strawberries are not in season, you can substitute them with other berries such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. These will provide a similar sweet and tangy flavor.
Cheese Alternatives: If you prefer a different cheese, goat cheese or blue cheese can be used instead of feta. These cheeses add a creamy texture and tangy flavor that complements the salad well.
Nut Options: Walnuts or sunflower seeds can be used in place of almonds or pecans. Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to the salad.
Dressing Variations: For a different flavor profile, you can use lemon juice or apple cider vinegar instead of balsamic vinegar. Adding a bit of minced garlic or fresh herbs like basil or mint can also provide an additional depth of flavor.
Protein Addition: To make this salad a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. These proteins complement the flavors well and make the salad heartier.
Preparing Ahead: This salad is best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance. Keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to keep the salad crisp and vibrant.
Serving Suggestions: This strawberry spinach salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. It can also be served with crusty bread or a light soup for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Sugars: 8g
- Fat: 16g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Vitamin A: 70% DV (Daily Value)
- Vitamin C: 80% DV
- Calcium: 10% DV
- Iron: 15% DV
This strawberry spinach salad is not only delicious but also a nutritional powerhouse. Spinach is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for immune function and skin health. Strawberries provide antioxidants and vitamin C, promoting overall well-being.
The addition of feta cheese adds calcium and protein, while nuts contribute healthy fats and fiber. The dressing, made with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, enhances the flavors while providing healthy fats and antioxidants.
Enjoy this vibrant and refreshing salad as a light meal, a side dish, or an appetizer. Its combination of sweet, creamy, and tangy flavors, along with its colorful presentation, makes it a standout dish for any occasion. With its health benefits and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
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