Introduction
Transform everyday ingredients into a vibrant and refreshing summer salad that’s as easy as it is delicious! This recipe takes just minutes to prepare, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful contribution to your next summer gathering. A touch of creativity elevates simple spinach and strawberries into a flavor explosion.
Why This Works
This recipe shines because of its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The sweetness of the strawberries beautifully complements the earthiness of the spinach, while the tangy vinaigrette adds a delightful zing. The ingredients are readily available, making it incredibly accessible. And best of all, it impresses with minimal effort β a true win-win!
Key Ingredients
π 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
π₯¬ 10 ounces fresh spinach, washed and dried
π° 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
π§ 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
π― 2 tablespoons honey
π 2 tablespoons lemon juice
π« 1/4 cup olive oil
π§ 1/4 teaspoon salt
θ‘ζ€ 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
1οΈβ£ Prepare the ingredients: Wash and dry the spinach thoroughly. Hull and slice the strawberries. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned (about 3-5 minutes), then chop. Crumble the feta cheese.
2οΈβ£ Make the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3οΈβ£ Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, gently toss the spinach, strawberries, and pecans.
4οΈβ£ Dress and serve: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat. Top with crumbled feta cheese and serve immediately.
Handy Tips
- Substitutions: Feel free to substitute other berries like blueberries or raspberries for the strawberries. For a nut-free option, omit the pecans or use sunflower seeds instead. Goat cheese can be used in place of feta.
- Spinach Prep: Ensure your spinach is completely dry before adding it to the salad to prevent a watery salad. Use a salad spinner for best results.
- Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds a lovely crunch. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.
Heat Control
The only heat involved is the gentle toasting of the pecans. Over-toasting will result in burnt pecans with a bitter taste. Keep a close eye on them and remove from heat as soon as they are fragrant and lightly browned.
Crunch Factor
The crunch in this salad comes from the toasted pecans and the slightly firm texture of the strawberries. To maximize the crunch, use fresh, ripe strawberries and don’t over-toast the pecans.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Prep Ahead: Wash and dry the spinach and slice the strawberries ahead of time to save time when you’re ready to assemble the salad. Store separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette for a subtle kick.
- Easy Cleanup: Line your salad bowl with a large piece of plastic wrap before adding the ingredients. To clean, simply lift out the plastic wrap with the salad remnants.
Storage Tips
Store leftover salad (without the dressing) separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the dressing just before serving.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This salad makes a lovely gift for a summer gathering. Pack it in a pretty container or a reusable salad bowl with a ribbon tied around it. Include a small card with the recipe.
Flavor Variations
π Spicy Strawberry Spinach Salad: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the vinaigrette.
π Citrus Burst: Add segments of orange or grapefruit to the salad for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
π Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a high-quality balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving for an elegant touch.
π Candied Pecans: For an extra sweet and crunchy element, make candied pecans by tossing them in melted butter and brown sugar before toasting.
Troubleshooting
- Watery Salad: Ensure your spinach is completely dry before adding it to the salad.
- Over-toasted Pecans: Remove the pecans from the heat immediately when they are fragrant and lightly browned to prevent burning.
FAQ
- Can I make this salad ahead of time? It’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting. You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, though.
- What can I substitute for feta cheese? Goat cheese or crumbled blue cheese are great alternatives.
- How can I scale this recipe up or down? Simply adjust the quantities of all ingredients proportionally.
- Is this salad gluten-free and dairy-free? The recipe is naturally gluten-free. To make it dairy-free, omit the feta cheese.
Conclusion
This Easy Strawberry Spinach Salad is a summer staple that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy its vibrant flavors and refreshing simplicity. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavor combinations and share your creations with friends and family!
Summer's Sweetest Spinach Salad
A refreshing and vibrant salad featuring fresh spinach, sweet fruits, and a tangy dressing, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the fresh baby spinach, strawberries, blueberries, feta cheese, walnuts, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Tips
- For added sweetness, you can include sliced peaches or nectarines.
- Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.