As I was strolling through the farmer's market last weekend, the vibrant colors of fresh strawberries caught my eye, instantly sparking a craving for something light and refreshing. That’s when I knew I had to whip up my Quick and Easy Spinach Strawberry Feta Pecan Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing. This delightful salad, with its blend of sweet strawberries, creamy feta, and crunchy pecans, is not just a feast for the eyes but also a nourishing choice for your body. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for anyone looking to swap out fast food for a healthier, homemade meal. Plus, it's super versatile—feel free to mix in your favorite protein or substitute ingredients to fit your preferences. Ready to brighten up your lunch or dinner with a burst of flavor? Let’s dive into making this gorgeous salad!
Why is this salad a must-try?
Freshness at its finest: With ripe strawberries and crisp spinach, this salad bursts with vibrant flavors that scream summer.
Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Nutrient-Packed: Each serving is loaded with vitamins and healthy fats, making it not only delicious but also nourishing.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize it with your favorite proteins or swap out nuts as you please—this recipe adapts to your taste effortlessly!
Crowd-Pleaser: Make it for friends, family, or yourself; everyone will appreciate its refreshing taste and delightful crunch!
Transform your meals with this Spinach Strawberry Salad that complements any dish, to brighten your dining experience every time you serve it.
Spinach Strawberry Salad Ingredients
• For the Salad
- Fresh Spinach – the base of the salad; opt for baby spinach for a tender, delicate texture.
- Juicy Strawberries – provides sweetness; always choose fresh strawberries for the best flavor experience.
- Creamy Feta Cheese – crumbled for even distribution; goat cheese serves as a wonderful alternative if preferred.
- Crunchy Pecans – toast them for added flavor; feel free to substitute with walnuts or almonds for a different twist.
- Red Onion – sliced thin to add sharpness; soaking in cold water helps mellow the flavor.
• For the Dressing
- Balsamic Vinegar – the dressing's acidic base; consider red wine vinegar as an alternative for a unique flavor.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – enriches the dressing and helps meld flavors together.
- Honey – balances the dressing's tang; swap for maple syrup if you're looking for a vegan option.
- Dijon Mustard – adds a nice kick to the dressing; you can omit it if you prefer a milder taste.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – elevates the overall flavor; adjust to suit your taste preferences.
This Spinach Strawberry Salad is delightful both in presentation and taste, making every bite feel like a fresh summer day!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Quick and Easy Spinach Strawberry Feta Pecan Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing
Step 1: Toast Pecans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans evenly on a baking sheet and bake them for 8-10 minutes, or until they become fragrant and lightly golden. Once toasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool before chopping them roughly. This step enhances the nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your Spinach Strawberry Salad.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of balsamic vinegar, ½ cup of extra-virgin olive oil, and 1 tablespoon of honey until well combined. Add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, along with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. For an added burst of flavor, stir in 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds. This fresh dressing will beautifully complement your salad’s vibrant ingredients.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, start with 6 cups of fresh baby spinach as the base. Then, add 2 cups of quartered fresh strawberries and ½ cup of thinly sliced red onion that has been soaked in cold water to soften its sharpness. Drizzle about half of the previously made dressing over the mixture and toss gently to ensure everything is well combined without bruising the spinach.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Incorporate ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese and the chopped toasted pecans into the salad mix. Drizzle the remaining dressing on top for an extra zing and toss everything lightly to distribute the toppings evenly. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh textures and flavors of your Spinach Strawberry Salad before the spinach starts to wilt.
Spinach Strawberry Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful salad, adding your own spin or preferred ingredients!
-
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier version that's even more satisfying.
-
Cheese Swap: If you're not a fan of feta, try goat cheese or blue cheese for a completely different flavor profile. The creamy texture enhances the overall experience.
-
Nut Alternatives: Experiment with walnuts or almonds instead of pecans; each brings its own unique crunch and flavor. Toast them to unlock their full potential.
-
Extra Veggies: Toss in sliced cucumbers or diced bell peppers for an added crunch and vibrant color. All the extra textures will make each bite even more exciting!
-
Sweet Spin: For more sweetness, add a handful of dried cranberries or sliced apples. They'll complement the strawberries beautifully and add a fun twist.
-
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top or add sliced jalapeños. It’ll bring a delightful contrast to the dish!
-
Vegan Dressing: Substitute honey with agave syrup for a vegan-friendly option while keeping the dressing deliciously balanced. It’s easy to adapt this recipe for different dietary preferences.
-
Fruit Fusion: Mix in other seasonal fruits like blueberries or raspberries to create a berry medley that bursts with freshness and color, adding another layer of delight.
Ready to customize your own Spinach Strawberry Salad? Dive into these variations, and don’t forget to pair it with a light protein like Grilled Chicken or enjoy it on the side with a summer favorite like BBQ Veggie Skewers!
What to Serve with Spinach Strawberry Feta Pecan Salad
Looking to elevate your meal experience? Pair this refreshing salad with delightful options that complement its taste and add variety to your table.
-
Grilled Chicken: Juicy, seasoned chicken adds protein, making the meal heartier while enhancing the salad's freshness with savory notes.
-
Quinoa Pilaf: A warm bowl of quinoa pilaf brings a nutty flavor and fluffy texture, creating a lovely contrast to the crisp spinach and strawberries.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Roasting draws out the natural sweetness of seasonal veggies, adding depth to your plate and balancing the salad's tang.
-
Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread provides a satisfying contrast to the light salad, perfect for scooping up those delicious flavors.
-
Lemonade Spritzers: Refreshing lemonade mixed with sparkling water offers a delightful zing, mirroring the sweetness of strawberries and brightening your dining experience.
For dessert, consider a Berry Sorbet: Its icy freshness cleanses the palate and echoes the fruity notes in your salad, making it a perfect ending to your meal!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Spinach Strawberry Feta Pecan Salad ahead of time is a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can make the salad dressing up to one week in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator—just give it a good shake before using. To keep the salad fresh, you can pre-chop the strawberries, toast and chop the pecans, and slice the onion up to 24 hours ahead. Store these components separately and combine them right before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting. This way, you’ll have a delicious and vibrant salad ready to enjoy with minimal effort, ensuring it remains just as flavorful!
Tips for the Best Spinach Strawberry Salad
-
Quality Ingredients: Choose the freshest spinach and strawberries; the better the ingredients, the tastier your Spinach Strawberry Salad will be.
-
Pecan Perfection: Toast your pecans for a richer flavor. Watch them closely to avoid burning; golden brown is the goal!
-
Dressing Storage: Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to one week—just shake well before using.
-
Assemble Wisely: Toss the spinach and dressing before adding toppings to keep the leaves crisp; serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
-
Customize Combinations: Don't hesitate to experiment with different cheese or nuts to suit your palate—this Spinach Strawberry Salad is all about your preferences!
How to Store and Freeze Spinach Strawberry Salad
Airtight Container: Store leftover salad components separately in an airtight container for up to 1 day to prevent spinach from wilting and keep ingredients fresh.
Refrigeration: If you've dressed only part of your salad, refrigerate the undressed spinach mixture for up to 2 days, adding strawberries and toppings just before serving.
Dressing Storage: Keep any leftover balsamic poppy seed dressing in the fridge for up to 1 week; store it in a sealed container and give it a good shake before using.
Freezing Not Recommended: This Spinach Strawberry Salad isn't suitable for freezing, as the spinach and fresh ingredients will lose their texture and flavor when thawed.
Spinach Strawberry Feta Pecan Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting spinach and strawberries?
Absolutely! For spinach, choose fresh baby spinach with deep green leaves, avoiding any that appear wilted or yellowed. As for strawberries, pick plump, bright red berries with a sweet aroma; make sure they are free of dark spots or mold to ensure they taste their best in your salad.
How should I store any leftovers?
If you have salad components left, store them separately in airtight containers. The spinach can stay fresh for no more than 1 day in the refrigerator to prevent wilting. Any undressed mixture of spinach may last up to 2 days, but add strawberries and toppings just before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
Can I freeze the Spinach Strawberry Salad?
It's best not to freeze this salad. Freezing can cause the spinach to lose its fresh, crisp texture and the strawberries to become mushy upon thawing. Enjoy it fresh!
How can I tell if my nuts are toasted properly?
Great question! Toast your pecans until they’re golden brown and fragrant, usually taking about 8-10 minutes in a 350°F oven. You can check them halfway through; they should look shiny and produce a delightful nutty aroma. For stovetop toasting, heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often to avoid burning.
Any dietary considerations for this salad?
Yes, while this Spinach Strawberry Salad is vegetarian, be mindful of potential allergens. If you're serving it to guests or family members, keep in mind that feta contains dairy. You can easily substitute with vegan cheese or omit it altogether for a dairy-free version. Always double-check your ingredients if anyone has nut allergies, especially with the pecans!
What can I do if my dressing is too tangy or sweet?
No worries at all! If you find your dressing too tangy, simply whisk in a bit more honey or maple syrup to balance the flavors. On the other hand, if it’s too sweet, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of salt to tone it down—taste as you go for the best result!
Delicious Spinach Strawberry Salad for a Fresh Summer Boost
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans evenly on a baking sheet and bake them for 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool before chopping.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of balsamic vinegar, ½ cup of extra-virgin olive oil, and 1 tablespoon of honey until well combined. Add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, along with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and poppy seeds.
- In a large mixing bowl, start with 6 cups of fresh baby spinach. Add 2 cups of quartered fresh strawberries and ½ cup of thinly sliced red onion. Drizzle half of the dressing over the mixture and toss gently.
- Incorporate ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese and the chopped toasted pecans into the salad mix. Drizzle the remaining dressing on top and toss lightly to distribute the toppings evenly. Serve immediately.
Leave a Reply