Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. The combination of fresh fruits, leafy greens, and crunchy pecans creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The homemade balsamic glaze adds a rich, tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the ingredients. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a light main course, this strawberry spinach salad is a versatile, refreshing option for any meal!

Ingredients

For the Balsamic Dressing (Glaze):

• 1 cup balsamic vinegar

• ¼ cup honey or brown sugar

For the Salad:

• 10 oz baby spinach (fresh)

• 3 cups strawberries, cleaned, hulled, and sliced

• 1 cup blueberries

• ⅓ cup feta cheese, crumbled

• 1 cup pecans, toasted (some of them chopped)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Make the Balsamic Glaze

1. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar).

2. Heat over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until the mixture thickens and reduces by half.

3. Remove from heat and pour the glaze into a heat-proof bowl to cool. The glaze will thicken further as it cools, and it should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon without being overly thick.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and crumbled feta cheese.

2. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Serve

1. Divide the salad into individual serving bowls.

2. Top each serving with whole and chopped toasted pecans.

3. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top of the salad in each bowl.

Step 4: Enjoy

Serve the salad immediately, and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.

• Use Different Nuts: If you don’t have pecans, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or pistachios.

• Add Avocado: For extra creaminess, add some diced avocado to the salad.

• Vegan Version: Omit the feta and use a dairy-free cheese alternative to make this salad vegan.

• Different Fruits: You can substitute the strawberries and blueberries with raspberries, blackberries, or even diced mango for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but the balsamic glaze can be stored separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you have leftover salad, store the ingredients separately (greens, fruits, nuts, and cheese) and add the dressing just before serving.

• Reheating: This salad is intended to be served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat it.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain the freshness of the greens and fruits.

2. Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?

Yes, you can use store-bought balsamic glaze if you’re short on time, but homemade glaze adds a richer flavor and allows you to control the sweetness.

3. Can I use other greens in place of spinach?

Yes, you can use mixed greens, arugula, or kale if you prefer. Each green will give the salad a slightly different flavor and texture.

4. Can I add other fruits?

Absolutely! You can experiment with fruits like raspberries, peaches, or even grapes for a different twist on this salad.

5. How long does this salad last in the fridge?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if stored properly (without dressing), it can last for 1-2 days in the fridge. The fruits may release moisture over time, so it’s best to consume it soon after preparing.

6. Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative like cashew cheese or nutritional yeast.

7. Can I skip the balsamic glaze?

You can skip the glaze if you prefer a simpler salad, or use a store-bought vinaigrette for convenience.

8. Can I toast the pecans in advance?

Yes, you can toast the pecans ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. This will save you time when preparing the salad.

9. How do I make the balsamic glaze thicker?

If you want a thicker glaze, simply cook it a little longer on low heat until it reduces further.

10. Can I make this salad without the feta cheese?

Yes, you can skip the feta if you prefer a dairy-free version or substitute with a different cheese like goat cheese or mozzarella.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. With the freshness of the fruits and greens, the crunch of pecans, and the richness of feta, it’s the perfect salad for any occasion. The homemade balsamic glaze ties everything together beautifully, making this a dish your family and friends will love. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, picnic, or potluck, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress!

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