Description
This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Dressing is a fresh and vibrant dish featuring sweet strawberries, tender spinach, crunchy nuts, and a tangy homemade balsamic dressing. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or summer salad, it combines nutritious ingredients with a deliciously balanced flavor profile.
Ingredients
Salad
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ⅓ cup toasted pecans or walnuts
- ¼ cup dried cranberries (optional)
Balsamic Dressing
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified to create a tangy, slightly sweet dressing.
- Prepare the salad base: Place the fresh baby spinach in a large serving bowl, ensuring the leaves are clean and dry for the best texture and flavor.
- Add the toppings: Add the sliced fresh strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, toasted pecans or walnuts, and dried cranberries (if using) to the spinach, distributing them evenly.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the prepared balsamic dressing evenly over the salad ingredients to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Toss gently: Use salad tongs or two large spoons to gently toss the salad, coating all ingredients with the dressing without bruising the delicate spinach leaves.
- Serve immediately: To maintain freshness and crispness, serve the salad right away and enjoy the vibrant combination of flavors and textures.
Notes
- Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the salad.
- Add grilled chicken to the salad for a heartier, protein-packed meal.
- Dress the salad just before serving to keep the spinach fresh and crisp without wilting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American