Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Gorgeous summer strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is a delightful dish perfect for warm weather. This salad combines fresh spinach with sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and tangy feta cheese. It’s an excellent choice for lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a potluck. The vibrant flavors and textures make it a standout option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of ripe strawberries and organic spinach creates a refreshing taste that bursts with flavor.
• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 20 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a light lunch, side dish, or even as a delightful appetizer at gatherings.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats from avocado and nuts, this salad is both delicious and nutritious.
• Customizable Dressing: The strawberry balsamic vinaigrette can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences by adding more or less sweetness.

Tools and Preparation

To make the strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar or small bowl
• Pan for toasting almonds
• Large mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar or small bowl: Ideal for mixing the dressing thoroughly without spills.
• Pan for toasting almonds: Ensures even heating, enhancing the flavor of the nuts.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 package (5 ounces) organic spinach
• 8 ounces strawberries, halved (about 2 cups halved strawberries)
• 1 large avocado, sliced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup feta cheese
• ⅓ cup raw sliced almonds
• ¼ cup chopped shelled roasted pistachios

For the Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette

• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, grated or finely minced
• ½ teaspoon dijon mustard
• ½ tablespoon strawberry jam (or jam of choice)
• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a mason jar or small bowl, add all of the dressing ingredients.
1. Shake or mix well until combined.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

Toasting almonds enhances their flavor:
1. Add the almonds to a pan over medium heat.
2. Stir occasionally for 2–5 minutes until they are slightly golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and allow them to cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Now it’s time to put everything together:
1. In a large bowl, add the spinach as the base layer.
2. Layer on the strawberries, avocado slices, red onion, feta cheese, toasted almonds, and pistachios.
3. Choose whether to add dressing now or serve on the side for individual servings.

Step 4: Serve

Divide the salad into bowls:
1. Top each bowl with extra toasted almonds.
2. Drizzle each serving with ¼ of the dressing.
3. Enjoy your delicious strawberry spinach salad!

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is a refreshing dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a colorful side, this salad is versatile and easy to customize.

Individual Bowls

• Serve the salad in individual bowls, allowing each person to drizzle their own strawberry balsamic vinaigrette. This keeps the ingredients fresh and crispy.

Picnic Style

• Pack the salad into mason jars for an easy picnic meal. Layer the ingredients starting with the dressing at the bottom, followed by spinach, strawberries, avocado, and toppings on top to prevent sogginess.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Its vibrant flavors complement savory dishes beautifully.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves as wraps filled with the salad. This adds a fun twist and makes it even more portable!

How to Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

To elevate your strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic, keep these tips in mind for optimal flavor and texture.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh strawberries and organic spinach. The fresher the produce, the better the taste.
• Toast Your Nuts: Toasting almonds enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your salad.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the vinaigrette ahead of time to let flavors meld. This can save time during meal prep.
• Customize Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like walnuts or goat cheese to suit your preferences.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend and makes it extra refreshing.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

This strawberry spinach salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that enhance its fresh flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breast adds protein and complements the salad’s sweetness perfectly.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs provides a nutty contrast that balances well with the salad.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring warmth and depth of flavor alongside the refreshing salad.
4. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft textures of the salad.
5. Fruit Platter: A mixed fruit platter can enhance the fruity notes of your dish while providing additional vitamins.
6. Cheese Board: An assortment of cheeses can provide richness that pairs beautifully with both strawberries and spinach.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your spinach and strawberries. Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and texture.
• Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a little, and add more as needed to keep it light.
• Skipping the toasting step: Toasting almonds adds depth and crunch. Don’t skip this step; it elevates the overall taste of your salad.
• Cutting vegetables too large: Slicing avocado and strawberries too thick can make the salad hard to mix. Aim for uniform sizes for better distribution in each bite.
• Not seasoning properly: Failing to season your vinaigrette can lead to bland flavors. Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper until balanced.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Container: Use an airtight container to keep the ingredients fresh.
• Separation: Keep dressing separate until ready to serve for best texture.

Freezing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Freezing advised?: Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in spinach and strawberries.
• Alternative suggestion: Consider freezing only the vinaigrette for later use.

Reheating Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salad in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion of the salad into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make a Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most components ahead but add dressing just before serving for freshness.

What other toppings can I add to my salad?

Consider adding nuts like walnuts or seeds, cheese such as goat or blue cheese, or even grilled chicken for protein.

How do I store leftover strawberry spinach salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container without dressing; consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?

While fresh strawberries are best, you can use thawed frozen strawberries if necessary; just be aware they may be softer.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Its sweet, tangy profile makes it perfect for lunch or as a side dish at dinner. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite fruits or proteins! Try this delightful recipe today!

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Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in a refreshing Strawberry Spinach Salad that combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the earthy taste of fresh spinach. This vibrant dish, enhanced by creamy avocado and tangy feta cheese, is perfect for warm weather dining. The homemade strawberry balsamic vinaigrette adds a delightful tang that elevates every bite. Quick to prepare in just 20 minutes, this salad serves as an ideal light lunch, a colorful side dish for dinner, or a show-stopping option at potlucks. Bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients, it’s a delicious way to enjoy the best of summer’s bounty.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5 ounces organic spinach
• 8 ounces strawberries (halved)
• 1 large avocado (sliced)
• ½ small red onion (thinly sliced)
• ½ cup feta cheese
• ⅓ cup raw sliced almonds
• ¼ cup chopped shelled roasted pistachios
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 garlic clove (grated or finely minced)
• ½ teaspoon dijon mustard
• ½ tablespoon strawberry jam (or jam of choice)
• Freshly ground salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped)

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Instructions

1. Make the Dressing: In a mason jar or bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, strawberry jam, salt, and pepper. Shake or mix until well combined.
2. Toast Almonds: In a pan over medium heat, toast almonds for 2-5 minutes until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, layer spinach followed by strawberries, avocado slices, red onion, feta cheese, toasted almonds, and pistachios.
4. Serve: Drizzle dressing over the salad or serve on the side for individual servings.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 15mg