Strawberry Spinach Salad

If you’re looking for a fresh and delightful dish that bursts with flavor, you’ve arrived at the right place! This Strawberry Spinach Salad is one of my absolute favorites. It combines the sweetness of strawberries with the crispness of baby spinach, topped off with salty feta and crunchy bacon. Every bite feels like a celebration of summer!

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, planning a brunch, or just need something quick for a busy weeknight, this salad fits the bill perfectly. It’s not only delicious but also super easy to whip up in no time. Let me show you how to make this vibrant dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: This Strawberry Spinach Salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute meals.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of flavors appeals to everyone—kids love the sweet strawberries while adults enjoy the savory feta.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and toss them together right before serving.
• Versatile Dish: Great as an appetizer or as a side for your main course, this salad works well for any occasion!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this salad is not just tasty but also a wholesome choice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are for this Strawberry Spinach Salad. Each element brings something special to the table, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.

For the Salad

• 5 cups baby spinach
• 1 pint strawberries (sliced, about 2 cups)
• 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
• ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon

For the Dressing

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tsp maple syrup (or honey)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ¼ tsp salt
• ⅛ tsp ground black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try adding grilled chicken or chickpeas instead of bacon for a different twist!
• Add nuts: Toss in some walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and healthy fats.
• Mix up the cheese: If feta isn’t your thing, goat cheese works beautifully here too.
• Change up the dressing: You can substitute honey for maple syrup or use lemon juice instead of balsamic vinegar for a zesty kick.

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients: olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup (or honey), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This step is crucial because it creates a rich flavor that ties all your salad components together perfectly.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, feta cheese, and crumbled bacon. Layering these ingredients allows each flavor to shine through while still blending beautifully when tossed together.

Step 3: Toss with Dressing

Drizzle your homemade dressing overtop just before serving. Gently toss everything to coat each ingredient evenly. Serving it immediately ensures that your greens stay crisp and fresh!

And there you have it—a delicious Strawberry Spinach Salad that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every colorful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Spinach Salad

Creating the perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures, and I’m here to help you nail it!

• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always choose fresh strawberries and baby spinach for the best taste. Fresh produce enhances the overall flavor of your salad, making it vibrant and delicious.
• Customize Your Cheese: If feta isn’t your favorite, try goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative. This flexibility allows you to cater to different palates while still achieving that creamy texture.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance for a quick assembly later. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors in the dressing to meld beautifully.
• Add Crunch: Consider adding nuts like sliced almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch. This adds a delightful texture contrast that makes each bite more interesting.
• Seasonal Variations: Experiment with seasonal fruits! Peaches or blueberries can be fantastic substitutes in this salad, keeping it fresh and exciting all year round.

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad

Presenting your Strawberry Spinach Salad beautifully can transform a simple dish into a stunning centerpiece for your meal. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped mint or basil on top for an aromatic touch that brightens up the salad.
• Toasted Seeds: A handful of toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds adds texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of strawberries.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken: Tender, grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs pairs perfectly with this salad, adding protein while keeping it light.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A warm quinoa pilaf with herbs can add a hearty element alongside your salad, making it a filling meal option.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers bring out earthy flavors that balance the sweetness of the strawberries.
• Whole Grain Bread: Serve with slices of crusty whole grain bread for a satisfying crunch and a great way to scoop up any leftover dressing.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Strawberry Spinach Salad will not only be a feast for the eyes but also a delightful experience for everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only a delightful dish for any occasion, but it also makes for a fantastic meal prep option! You can easily prepare components ahead of time and assemble them when you’re ready to enjoy.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat; this helps prevent the spinach from wilting.
• Enjoy leftovers within 2 days for the best taste and freshness.

Freezing

• This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the nature of its ingredients, especially the spinach and strawberries.
• If you find yourself with extra ingredients, consider freezing individual components like sliced strawberries or crumbled feta separately.

Reheating

• This salad is best served cold or at room temperature; therefore, no reheating is necessary.
• If you prefer your salad slightly warmer, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this Strawberry Spinach Salad, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I make Strawberry Spinach Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all the ingredients in advance and just mix them together right before serving. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy to maintain freshness.

What can I substitute for feta cheese in my Strawberry Spinach Salad?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu or nut-based cheese. Both options will lend a creamy texture without compromising the flavor profile!

How do I store leftover Strawberry Spinach Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, keeping dressing separate until serving. This will help keep your salad fresh!

Can I add other fruits to my Strawberry Spinach Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even diced apples. They all pair beautifully with the spinach and dressing.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this vibrant Strawberry Spinach Salad! Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish that’s perfect for any gathering or just a simple lunch at home. Enjoy experimenting with your own variations and share this delightful recipe with friends and family. Happy cooking!