Kiwi and Strawberry Spinach Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries and kiwi with the earthy crunch of spinach. This salad is perfect for any season, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures that are both satisfying and nutritious.

The tangy, slightly sweet dressing enhances the natural flavors of the fruit and greens, making it an excellent choice for a light lunch, a side dish, or a healthy appetizer. With its colorful presentation and rich nutritional profile, this salad is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds or sliced almonds (optional)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make Kiwi and Strawberry Spinach Salad:

Prepare the Spinach:

Wash and thoroughly dry the fresh spinach leaves. Place them in a large salad bowl. Spinach provides a nutrient-rich base for the salad, adding a mild, slightly earthy flavor.

Prepare the Fruit:

Hull and slice the strawberries. Peel and slice the kiwis. Both fruits add a burst of sweetness and a pop of color to the salad. If the strawberries are large, you may want to halve them for easier eating.

Prepare the Red Onion (Optional):

Thinly slice the red onion if using. The red onion adds a bit of sharpness that complements the sweetness of the fruit. Soaking the onion slices in cold water for about 10 minutes can help mellow their flavor.

Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or agave syrup, and Dijon mustard. Season the dressing with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The honey or agave syrup adds a touch of sweetness, while the balsamic vinegar provides a tangy contrast.

Assemble the Salad:

Add the sliced strawberries and kiwis to the salad bowl with the spinach. If using, add the thinly sliced red onion. Toss gently to combine the ingredients.

Add Optional Ingredients:

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and sunflower seeds or sliced almonds over the salad. The feta cheese adds a creamy tang, while the seeds or nuts provide a satisfying crunch.

Dress the Salad:

Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly with the dressing. Be careful not to over-mix to avoid wilting the spinach.

Serve:

Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients. This salad is best enjoyed right after it is prepared to maintain the crispness of the spinach and the vibrant flavors of the fruit.

Enjoy:

Enjoy your Kiwi and Strawberry Spinach Salad as a refreshing and nutritious addition to any meal. Its combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors makes it a delightful choice for any occasion.

Chef’s Note:

Choosing Fruit:

Select ripe but firm strawberries and kiwis for the best flavor and texture. Overripe fruit may become mushy and less appealing in the salad.

Spinach Handling:

Make sure to dry the spinach thoroughly after washing to prevent excess moisture from making the salad soggy.

Dressing Variations:

Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more honey or agave syrup if desired. You can also experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider or red wine vinegar, for varied flavors.

Optional Ingredients:

The feta cheese and nuts are optional but add extra flavor and texture. You can also customize the salad by adding other fruits like blueberries or raspberries or incorporating additional vegetables like cucumber or bell peppers.

Serving Tip:

This salad is best served immediately to maintain the freshness of the spinach and the vibrant flavors of the fruit. If preparing in advance, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving.

Nutritional Information

(Per 1 cup serving, based on 4 servings total):

• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 15g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 5g
• Vitamin C: 90% of Daily Value
• Vitamin A: 60% of Daily Value
• Calcium: 10% of Daily Value
• Iron: 8% of Daily Value

Kiwi and Strawberry Spinach Salad is a nutritious and flavorful choice, rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. The combination of fresh spinach, sweet fruit, and a tangy dressing makes it a healthful and satisfying option. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and health benefits of this delightful salad, perfect for any occasion.