Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad

Name: Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh spinach, rinsed and dried; 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Creations Studio

I absolutely love making fresh strawberry spinach salad, especially during the warmer months when strawberries are in season. The combination of sweet strawberries and crisp spinach creates a vibrant dish that not only tastes amazing but also looks beautiful on the plate. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, this salad is perfect for picnics, brunches, or as a refreshing side dish at dinner. It’s a simple yet delightful way to incorporate fresh ingredients into our meals!

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:10:17.419Z

When I first tasted a fresh strawberry spinach salad at a local café, I was surprised at how well the flavors melded together. It was a sunny day, and the combination of fresh ingredients made every bite feel like a celebration of summer. Inspired, I decided to create my own version at home, experimenting with different vinegars and toppings. One of my favorite tips is to toast the nuts before sprinkling them on the salad; it enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.

This vibrant salad has become a staple in my household. I often prepare it as a side for grilled chicken or serve it at gatherings. The sweet strawberries and slightly tangy dressing pair beautifully together, making each bite refreshing. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use fresh seasonal produce and brighten up your plate!

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        The sweetness of ripe strawberries brightens the dish.
Nutty and crunchy toppings add texture and flavor.
Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings.

      

Preparation and Ingredient Tips

Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a significant difference in this salad, particularly with the strawberries. Look for berries that are fully ripe—visually, they should be bright red and fragrant. If you can, choose local strawberries in season, as they will have the best flavor. Wash and dry them gently to maintain their texture, as excess moisture can make your salad soggy.

For the nuts, either walnuts or pecans will lend a delightful crunch and earthy flavor to the salad. Toasting the nuts in a dry pan over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes enhances their flavor. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning; you'll know they’re ready when they are golden and aromatic. If you want to keep this dish nut-free, consider using crispy chickpeas or sunflower seeds for added texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This fresh strawberry spinach salad is versatile. You can serve it as a side dish or as a light main course. If you want to make it more substantial, consider adding grilled chicken or quinoa for extra protein. Another delicious variation includes adding sliced avocado, which adds creaminess and healthy fats, complementing the flavors beautifully.

For a unique twist, try incorporating different seasonal fruits like blueberries or peaches, which pair nicely with spinach and cheese. To enhance the flavors, consider adding a handful of fresh herbs like basil or mint, which provide a refreshing finish. Experimenting with different cheeses, such as goat cheese or blue cheese, can also elevate this salad to suit your tastes.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 cups fresh spinach, rinsed and dried
1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

Vinaigrette Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine everything together for a delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to whip up your salad:

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped nuts.

Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Enjoy your fresh and vibrant salad!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the nuts with your favorite seeds for a nut-free version. Adding grilled chicken can also make it a complete meal.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to make it ahead of time, consider storing the components separately. Store the dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the spinach's crispiness and vibrant color. If you have leftovers, keep them in a sealed container for up to two days, but be aware that the texture will deteriorate as the spinach wilts from the dressing.

If you prefer a make-ahead option, you could prepare the spinach and toppings and store them in the fridge. Slice the strawberries just before serving to keep them fresh and prevent browning. Alternatively, consider using freeze-dried strawberries to maintain a longer shelf life without compromising many flavors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with salads can be excess moisture, which leads to a soggy texture. To avoid this, ensure you thoroughly dry the spinach after rinsing it. A salad spinner works wonders for this task. Additionally, adding the dressing just before serving will also help maintain a fresher texture.

If your salad seems underwhelming in flavor, it's often a sign that the ingredients need a more balanced seasoning. Don't hesitate to adjust the salt and pepper in your vinaigrette or add a splash more balsamic vinegar for acidity. A touch of lemon juice can also brighten up the flavors, enhancing the sweetness of the strawberries.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to prepare the salad just before serving to keep the spinach crisp. You can, however, prepare the dressing and chopped ingredients ahead.

→ What can I add for extra protein?

Adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even tofu can boost the protein content of the salad.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

You can leave out the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese. Ensure the honey in the dressing is replaced with maple syrup for a vegan option.

→ Is this salad good for meal prep?

While the salad is best fresh, you can store the dressing separately and combine the ingredients when you're ready to eat.