If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant, and incredibly delicious salad, this Strawberry Spinach Salad is a must-try! It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, with juicy strawberries, crisp spinach, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese all tossed in a light honey balsamic dressing.
Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a light lunch, or a summer gathering favorite, this salad is quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings for the perfect mix of texture and taste.
Why This Recipe Works
- Sweet and savory balance – The strawberries add natural sweetness, while the feta and nuts provide contrast.
- Quick and easy – Ready in just 10 minutes with minimal prep.
- Nutritious and fresh – Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins.
- Perfect for any occasion – Great for summer BBQs, picnics, or a light weekday meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 4 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 10 mins)
For the Salad:
- 6 cups fresh spinach
- 1 ½ cups strawberries, sliced
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup feta cheese or goat cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup pecans or almonds, toasted
- ¼ cup dried cranberries (optional, for extra sweetness)
For the Honey Balsamic Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad
1. Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
- Set aside while you prepare the salad.
2. Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, add the spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, feta cheese, and toasted nuts.
3. Toss & Serve
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips & Variations
🔹 Want extra crunch? Add toasted walnuts, sunflower seeds, or candied pecans.
🔹 Make it a meal – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for extra protein.
🔹 Swap the cheese – Feta and goat cheese work great, but you can also use blue cheese or parmesan.
🔹 Prefer a lighter dressing? Use a lemon vinaigrette instead of balsamic.
🔹 Love extra sweetness? Add mandarin oranges or apple slices for more fruit flavor.
What to Serve with Strawberry Spinach Salad
This salad pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled Chicken or Salmon – A protein-packed meal.
- Crusty Bread or Crostini – To soak up the delicious dressing.
- A Chilled Glass of White Wine – Pairs well with the fresh and fruity flavors.
- Quinoa or Farro – To make it heartier.
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! Just store the ingredients separately and add the dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Fresh is best, but if using frozen, thaw and pat them dry before adding to the salad.
Q: Can I make a vegan version?
A: Absolutely! Swap out feta for a dairy-free cheese or avocado and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Strawberry Spinach Salad is light, refreshing, and packed with vibrant flavors, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. It’s nutrient-rich, super easy to make, and completely customizable to your taste.
Give this recipe a try and let me know how you love to enjoy your strawberry spinach salad!
The Perfect Summer Salad: Strawberry Spinach with Honey Balsamic Dressing
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, walnuts, and feta cheese.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh summer salad!
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