Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe

Posted by myfab5 February 2, 2025

Ingredients

Fresh Produce:

The key to crafting a mouthwatering **Strawberry Spinach Salad** lies not only in the creative combination of flavors but also in selecting the freshest and highest quality ingredients. When it comes to this refreshing salad, you’ll want to focus on using the finest fresh produce

The strawberries that serve as the crowning glory of the salad should be plump and sweet, with a deep red color. Fresh strawberries are abundant in **antioxidants** and manganese, making them an excellent addition to any dish.

For the base of your salad, choose a handful of crisp, fresh spinach leaves that have been carefully cleaned and rinsed to remove any dirt or debris. Spinach is rich in iron and packed with nutrients, providing a boost to any meal.

To complement the flavors of the strawberries and spinach, you can add some crunchy elements such as toasted **pecans** or chopped hazelnuts. These nutty additions provide texture and depth to your salad without overpowering the delicate taste of the other ingredients.

Incorporating a tangy dressing is essential in balancing out the flavors in the salad. Consider using a homemade vinaigrette made from **olive oil**, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt to bring all the elements together.

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves

For this delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe, we will be using a variety of fresh ingredients to create a sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

The star of our show is the spinach leaves, which provide a burst of nutrients and flavor to the salad. We’re using baby spinach leaves specifically because of their tender texture and mild flavor, making them an ideal choice for this recipe.

Key Ingredient: Baby Spinach Leaves

  1. Cup Count: We need 4 cups of fresh baby spinach leaves. To ensure you have the right amount, consider packing the leaves loosely in a measuring cup to avoid overcrowding.
  2. Selection: Choose baby spinach leaves with no visible signs of wilting or yellowing. Freshness is essential for maintaining their flavor and texture.
  3. Storage: Baby spinach leaves are best used immediately after purchase. However, if you need to store them for a short period, keep them in a sealed container in the refrigerator and use within a day or two.

When using baby spinach leaves in this recipe, make sure to wash them thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Gently pat them dry with a paper towel before chopping or tearing them for your salad.

• 1 pint sliced strawberries

For this Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe, we will be using a variety of fresh and flavorful ingredients to create a delicious and refreshing dish.

The key ingredient in this recipe is fresh strawberries, which provide natural sweetness and a pop of color to the salad.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pint sliced strawberries
    • This will be the primary fruit component of our salad, providing sweet and juicy flavor with each bite.
  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
    • This will serve as the base for our salad, providing a nutritious and flavorful foundation for our dish.
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
    • This adds a tangy and creamy element to our salad, balancing out the sweetness of the strawberries.
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
    • These will add crunch and texture to our salad, as well as a nutty flavor that complements the fruit and cheese.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • This will be used as the dressing for our salad, providing a light and refreshing coating for each bite.
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
    • This adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to our dressing, balancing out the savory elements of our salad.

Note: Feel free to adjust the amount of each ingredient to suit your personal taste preferences. This recipe is meant to be flexible and adaptable to individual tastes.

Nutritional Boosters:

The strawberry spinach salad recipe is a perfect example of how to combine fresh ingredients with nutritional boosters to create a healthy and delicious dish.

When it comes to the ingredients, the focus is on using seasonal produce that provides a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Fresh strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, while baby spinach leaves offer a boost of iron and calcium.

In addition to these nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables, other ingredients like crumbled feta cheese and toasted almonds add protein and healthy fats to the salad. The tangy flavor of the feta cheese also complements the sweetness of the strawberries, creating a balance of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying.

Nutritional boosters like chia seeds and hemp seeds can be added to the salad for an extra dose of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. These tiny seeds may seem insignificant, but they pack a powerful punch when it comes to providing essential nutrients.

Another key ingredient in this recipe is avocado, which adds healthy fats and creamy texture to the salad. Avocados are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and various phytochemicals that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.

To take this salad to the next level, consider adding some fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cacao nibs for an extra boost of antioxidants and flavonoids. The bright green color of the spinach and the vibrant red of the strawberries make for a visually stunning presentation that is almost too good to eat.

As you enjoy this strawberry spinach salad, remember that the combination of fresh ingredients and nutritional boosters provides a range of benefits that can enhance your overall health and well-being. From boosting your immune system to supporting heart health, every bite of this delicious recipe has the potential to make a positive impact on your life.

With its perfect balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients, the strawberry spinach salad recipe is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a healthy and satisfying meal option that can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

The addition of **_chopped pecans_** to this Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the earthiness of the spinach perfectly. When using chopped pecans, it’s essential to choose high-quality nuts that are fresh and have not been sitting on the shelf for too long.

The pecan is a tree nut native to North America, particularly in the southern United States. It’s known for its rich, buttery flavor and firm texture, which makes it an excellent choice for snacking, baking, and adding a crunchy touch to salads like this one.

To incorporate chopped pecans into your Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe, you’ll need about 1/2 cup of chopped nuts. You can either chop them yourself using a food processor or purchase pre-chopped pecans from the store.

When chopping pecans at home, it’s crucial to be mindful of the texture and avoid over-processing them, which can make them turn into a nut butter consistency. Instead, aim for a coarse grind that still maintains some texture and crunch.

It’s also worth noting that you can toast the chopped pecans in a dry pan or oven before adding them to the salad for an enhanced flavor. Simply heat the nuts over medium heat or at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned.

Incorporating chopped pecans into your Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe adds a delicious textural element that takes this simple salad to the next level. The nutty flavor of the pecans perfectly complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the earthiness of the spinach, creating a harmonious balance of flavors in each bite.

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Feta cheese is a key ingredient in many Greek and Mediterranean dishes, including salads like this strawberry spinach salad recipe.

The type of feta used can vary depending on personal preference and regional traditions, but it’s often made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, or a combination of both.

The high quality crumbled feta cheese has a tangy, salty flavor that complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the earthiness of the spinach in this salad recipe.

Why Feta Cheese is Important in This Recipe

  • Feta adds a rich and creamy texture to the salad
  • The salty flavor helps balance out the sweetness of the strawberries
  • Feta has been used for centuries as a staple ingredient in Greek cuisine, making it a fitting choice for this strawberry spinach salad recipe
  • It’s also a good source of protein and calcium.

How to Choose the Best Feta Cheese

  1. Look for feta that is made from high-quality ingredients, such as sheep’s or goat’s milk
  2. Choose a block of feta cheese rather than crumbled, as it will be easier to store and keep fresh
  3. A good quality feta cheese should have a firm texture and a tangy, salty flavor.

The amount of feta used in this recipe can be adjusted based on personal preference. Feel free to add more or less crumbled feta cheese to suit your taste buds.

Instructions

Prep the Salad:

To prep the salad for the Strawberry Spinach Salad recipe, start by washing the fresh spinach leaves and removing any stems or damaged leaves. Place the spinach in a large bowl or on a clean kitchen counter to dry completely.

Next, chop fresh strawberries into bite-sized pieces and set them aside in a separate container. If using fresh mint leaves, wash and pat them dry with paper towels before chopping them finely and combining them with the chopped strawberries.

Cut red onion to desired thickness, if using, and set it aside along with the other ingredients. Choose crumbled feta cheese or shaved parmesan for added flavor and texture.

Rinse a handful of fresh blueberries or raspberries under cold water and pat them dry before adding them to the salad mix.

Cut sliced almonds or walnuts according to desired size for crunch, then combine the ingredients in a bowl, leaving space between each ingredient for an attractive presentation.

Drizzle your favorite vinaigrette over the prepared salad and gently toss all ingredients together to create a colorful, fresh, and delicious Strawberry Spinach Salad perfect for any occasion!

• Wash and dry baby spinach leaves

To wash and dry baby spinach leaves, follow these steps:

  1. Select Fresh Leaves: Choose a batch of fresh baby spinach leaves that are free from wilted or yellowish patches.
  2. Remove Packaging**: Take the baby spinach leaves out of their packaging, such as plastic bags or containers.

  3. Rinse Under Cold Water**: Hold the baby spinach leaves under cold running water to remove any dirt, debris, or impurities. Gently swish them around to ensure thorough rinsing.

  4. Soak in a Bowl of Cold Water (Optional)**: If you want to be extra cautious about removing dirt and contaminants, you can submerge the baby spinach leaves in a bowl of cold water for about 5-10 minutes. Then, carefully lift them out with your hands or a clean utensil.

  5. Drain Excess Water**: After rinsing or soaking, use your hands or a clean utensil to gently squeeze out as much excess water from the baby spinach leaves. This step is crucial to prevent sogginess and contamination.

  6. Dry with Paper Towels**: Gently pat the baby spinach leaves dry using paper towels. You can also use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture, but be careful not to bruise or damage the delicate leaves.

  7. Allow to Air Dry (Optional)**: If you want to ensure the baby spinach leaves are completely dry before using them in your Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe, you can lay them out on a paper towel-lined plate or tray and allow them to air dry for about 30 minutes to an hour. This step is optional but recommended if you’re concerned about excess moisture affecting the texture of your salad.


• Slice strawberries into thin pieces

To make this delicious strawberry spinach salad, it’s essential to start with a step that requires some finesse – slicing the strawberries into thin pieces.

The first thing you need to do is gently wash the strawberries under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.

Next, carefully pat the strawberries dry with a clean towel or paper towels to prevent any excess moisture from affecting their texture and flavor.

Once they’re dry, lay each strawberry on its side and slice it in half lengthwise using a sharp knife.

You can either slice each half into quarters or use a mandoline or food slicer to get even thinner pieces – the key is to have uniform slices so that everyone gets an equal amount of juicy sweetness.

Remember, you don’t want the slices to be too thick, as this will affect the overall texture and flavor of the salad. A good rule of thumb is to aim for slices around 1/8 inch (3-4 mm) thick.

As you slice the strawberries, place them in a bowl or container to prevent them from getting damaged or bruised – and be sure to add them to your strawberry spinach salad recipe just before serving to maintain their freshness and texture!

• Chop pecans (if using)

To make this delicious Strawberry Spinach Salad, we will break down the instructions into a series of steps to ensure that every component is prepared and assembled correctly.

Here are the ingredients needed for the salad:

  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
  • 1 cup sliced strawberries
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (if using)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step 1: Prepare the Pecans (if using)

  • Chop pecans in a food processor or place them on a cutting board and chop them into small pieces using a sharp knife.

  • Add the chopped pecans to a bowl and set aside for later use.

Step 2: Wash and Dry the Spinach Leaves

  • Gently wash the baby spinach leaves in cold water, removing any dirt or debris from the leaves.

  • Use a salad spinner to dry the leaves thoroughly before using them in the salad.

Step 3: Slice the Strawberries

  • Wash and dry the strawberries, then slice them into thin wedges or half-moons.

  • Add the sliced strawberries to a bowl and set aside for later use.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

  • In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh baby spinach leaves, chopped pecans (if using), crumbled feta cheese (optional), and chopped red onion (optional).

  • Top the greens with the sliced strawberries.

Step 5: Dress the Salad

  • Dress the salad by drizzling the balsamic vinaigrette over the top of the spinach and strawberries.

  • Add salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Balsamic Glaze Tip:

To take your **_Strawberry Spinach Salad_** to the next level, consider adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an instant flavor boost.

But what exactly is balsamic glaze? It’s essentially a thick and syrupy reduction of traditional balsamic vinegar, made by simmering it until most of the liquid has evaporated, leaving a rich and intense flavor behind.

The key to using balsamic glaze effectively in your **Strawberry Spinach Salad** is to apply it just before serving. You see, the longer you let the salad sit with the balsamic glaze, the more it will soak up into the ingredients, losing some of its signature tanginess.

Here’s a pro tip for creating an even better **Strawberry Spinach Salad**: mix the balsamic glaze with a bit of honey or maple syrup to create a perfectly balanced flavor. The sweetness will help counteract the acidity in the balsamic, while also adding depth and complexity to your salad.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) to your **Strawberry Spinach Salad** for added crunch and texture. You can also sprinkle a handful of shredded Parmesan cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor.

Another great variation is to add some fresh mint leaves to your salad, either chopped or torn into smaller pieces. This will give it a refreshing twist and complement the sweetness of the strawberries perfectly.

Last but not least, consider using a combination of **strawberry** varieties in your salad for an explosion of flavors and textures. For example, you could use sweet Albion strawberries along with tart Sweet Ann strawberries for a delightful contrast of flavors.

• Reduce 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar on low heat to create a glaze

To reduce 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar into a glaze, start by placing it in a small saucepan over low heat.

As the vinegar heats up, you’ll begin to notice that it starts to thicken and become more syrupy in consistency.

This process is called reduction, and it’s where the liquid is cooked down until most of the water content has evaporated, leaving behind a thicker, sweeter glaze.

Stir the balsamic vinegar occasionally as it heats up to prevent burning or scorching.

You can also add a small amount of sugar or honey to balance out the acidity and create a smoother flavor profile in the glaze.

The key is to be patient and let the reduction process take its time – this can take anywhere from 10-30 minutes, depending on the heat level and desired consistency.

Once you’ve reached your desired glaze thickness, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool.

This balsamic glaze is a perfect topping for our Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe, adding a sweet and tangy element that complements the fresh flavors of the strawberries and spinach.

Feel free to adjust the amount of reduction time to suit your taste preferences – some people prefer their glazes thicker and more syrupy, while others like them thinner and more saucy.

• Drizzle over salad for added flavor

To elevate the flavors in your Strawberry Spinach Salad, consider these tips and variations:

Tips:

  1. Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as balsamic or apple cider, to add unique flavor profiles.
  2. Add a sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese for a tangy and creamy element.
  3. Use fresh mint leaves instead of basil for a refreshing twist on the classic herb pairing.

Variations:

  • Peach Spinach Salad: Replace strawberries with diced peaches and add a sprinkle of pecans for added crunch.
  • Raspberry Feta Salad: Swap out the goat cheese for crumbled feta and use fresh raspberries instead of strawberries.
  • Tropical Spinach Salad: Add diced pineapple, mango, or papaya to give your salad a tropical twist.

Drizzling Options:

  • Balsamic Glaze: A sweet and thick reduction of balsamic vinegar that adds depth and richness.
  • Olive Oil Vinaigrette: A light and refreshing vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
  • Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette: A sweet and tangy vinaigrette made by blending strawberry puree with balsamic vinegar and olive oil.

Suggestions for Pairing:

  1. Pan-seared chicken or salmon provide a protein-packed option to add on top of the salad.
  2. Grilled shrimp or scallops can be used as an alternative to chicken or salmon, adding a pop of color and flavor.

Other Combinations:

To elevate this _Strawberry Spinach Salad_ recipe to new heights, consider exploring various **Tips & Variations**, and **Other Combinations** that will tantalize your taste buds.

For a twist on the classic, try substituting the red onion with a sweet and crunchy **Caramelized Shallot**. This will add a depth of flavor and texture that pairs perfectly with the fresh spinach and juicy strawberries.

If you’re looking to add some extra crunch to your salad, toss in some toasted **Pecans** or **Walnuts**. The nutty flavor and satisfying crunch of these nuts complement the sweet strawberries and savory spinach beautifully.

Take your strawberry spinach salad to the next level by adding some creamy and tangy elements, such as a _Feta Cheese_ crumble or a drizzle of _Balsamic Glaze_. The salty feta will cut through the sweetness of the strawberries, while the balsamic glaze will add a rich and fruity depth.

For a refreshing summer twist, substitute the traditional red wine vinegar with a _Lemon-Tahini Dressing_ made with lemon juice, tahini paste, garlic powder, and olive oil. This creamy and citrusy dressing pairs perfectly with the fresh spinach, strawberries, and crunchy nuts.

Lastly, consider adding some spicy kick to your salad by sprinkling in some toasted **Ancho Chili Powder** or diced _Jalapeño Peppers_. The heat will balance out the sweetness of the strawberries and add a thrilling dimension to this simple yet elegant salad.

• Add diced avocado or red onion for extra texture

To elevate this delicious **Strawberry Spinach Salad** to the next level, consider adding some extra texture and flavor with the following tips and variations:

One great addition is to incorporate **diced avocado**, which not only provides a creamy contrast to the crunchy spinach but also brings in a burst of fresh, healthy fats. Simply slice an avocado into small cubes and toss it with the other ingredients.

For a sweet and savory combination, try adding some diced red onion. The sweetness of the strawberry pairs surprisingly well with the pungency of the red onion, creating a flavor experience that’s both tangy and refreshing. Simply dice up a small amount of red onion and add it to the mix.

Another variation is to use different types of nuts or seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds. These not only provide texture but also a boost of protein and healthy fats. Simply sprinkle your chosen nuts or seeds over the top of the salad.

If you prefer a creamier dressing, consider using a **homemade vinaigrette** made with fresh herbs like basil, mint, or tarragon. This will add an extra layer of flavor to the salad without overpowering the other ingredients.

Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different combinations of ingredients! Some other options might include adding some diced apples for a sweet and crunchy texture, using **feta cheese** for a tangy burst of flavor, or even adding some balsamic glaze for a drizzle of sweetness.

The key is to have fun and experiment with different flavors and textures until you find the perfect combination that suits your taste. Happy salad-making!

myfab5
Latest posts by myfab5 (see all)