Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish that brightens up any meal, you’ve come to the right place! This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is an absolute favorite of mine. The combination of dark leafy greens, juicy strawberries, and crunchy pecans creates a delightful mix that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. I love making this salad for busy weeknights or when hosting family gatherings—it’s both quick to prepare and always impresses!

What makes this salad truly special is its versatility. Whether it’s served as a light lunch, a side at dinner, or even a potluck contribution, it never fails to bring smiles to the table. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up—you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this salad ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of sweet strawberries and tangy cheese creates an irresistible flavor that’s hard to beat.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with nutrients from spinach and strawberries, it’s a guilt-free addition to any meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweetness of strawberries, making it an easy way to get them excited about greens!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the ingredients ahead of time, toss them together when ready to serve, and enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans. Each one adds its own special touch to this delightful dish!

For the Salad

• 5 oz spinach (or baby kale, washed about 5 cups)
• 1 lb strawberries (washed, hulled, and sliced)
• 1/2 cup feta (crumbled or goat cheese)
• 1/4 cup pecans (candied)

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar)
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey (raw)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• salt and pepper (to taste)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
• Try different nuts: Substitute candied pecans with walnuts or almonds for a new twist.
• Use seasonal fruits: Swap strawberries for blueberries or peaches when they’re in season.
• Experiment with cheese: If you’re not a fan of feta, goat cheese works beautifully too!

How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base

To make this mixed salad greens and strawberry salad with balsamic vinaigrette dressing, start by combining some yummy spinach (or baby kale), sliced strawberries, and crumbled cheese in a large bowl. This creates a colorful base that will shine through once we add our dressing.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together some balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until they’re well combined. This dressing is the secret weapon that ties all the flavors together beautifully!

Step 3: Combine Everything

Next, pour the dressing over the salad and give everything a good toss until the salad is evenly coated. It’s important that each piece gets dressed so every bite is full of flavor.

Step 4: Garnish with Pecans

For some added flavor and crunch, garnish the salad with some candied pecans. And voila! Your tasty and healthy Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is ready to be served and enjoyed!

Now you’re all set to create this beautiful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Creating a delicious Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is all about the little details that elevate your dish. Here are some handy tips to help you enjoy this vibrant salad even more!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and strawberries. Fresh produce enhances the flavor and texture of your salad, making it more enjoyable.

• Make Your Own Candied Pecans: While store-bought options are convenient, homemade candied pecans are easy to make and can be tailored to your taste. Just toss pecans in a bit of maple syrup and bake until golden for a delightful crunch.

• Chill Your Salad Bowl: For an extra refreshing experience, chill your mixing bowl in the fridge before assembling the salad. It keeps the greens crisp and cool, especially on warm days.

• Add Variety with Seasonal Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what’s in season. Try adding blueberries or sliced apples when strawberries aren’t at their peak; it keeps the salad exciting throughout the year!

• Dress Just Before Serving: To maintain the freshness of your greens, dress your salad just before serving. This prevents wilting and keeps everything looking vibrant!

How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Presenting your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to enhance its visual appeal and flavor profile.

Garnishes

• Crumbled Cheese: Adding extra crumbled feta or goat cheese not only enhances the taste but also adds a beautiful contrast against the green spinach and red strawberries.

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh mint or basil leaves can add a lovely aromatic touch that complements the sweetness of strawberries beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy grilled chicken seasoned with herbs makes for a hearty protein addition that pairs wonderfully with the refreshing salad.

• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with lemon and herbs provides a nutty flavor that complements the sweet strawberries beautifully while adding fiber.

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the flavors in this salad perfectly, creating a satisfying balance between sweet and savory.

• Whole Wheat Bread: A slice of crusty whole wheat bread on the side can be perfect for scooping up every delicious bite of salad, enhancing your meal experience.

Enjoy every colorful bite of this delightful Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans! It’s not only a feast for the eyes but also nourishing for your body.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for fresh and delicious meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate to maintain the salad’s crunchiness.
• Consume within 2-3 days for best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing, as the texture of fresh spinach and strawberries will be compromised once thawed.

Reheating

• Since this salad is served cold, there’s no need to reheat. Just toss again with fresh dressing if needed before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish.

Can I make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans without cheese?

Absolutely! You can omit the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream for a lighter version.

How long does Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans last in the fridge?

When stored properly, this salad lasts about 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve!

What can I substitute for pecans in Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?

If you don’t have pecans, feel free to use walnuts or almonds instead. They’ll add a nice crunch and complement the flavors well!

Is the dressing for Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans easy to make?

Yes! The balsamic vinaigrette dressing comes together quickly. Just whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans as much as I do! It’s not only vibrant and flavorful but also a nutritious addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as a light lunch, it’s sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!