Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Gorgeous summer strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic vinaigrette is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. This refreshing salad combines fresh strawberries, creamy avocado, and a nutty crunch, making it an ideal choice for lunches, picnics, or as an easy side dish at gatherings. The vibrant flavors and textures create a sweet, tangy, crunchy experience that your taste buds will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of strawberries and spinach paired with the creamy feta creates a delightful balance of flavors.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, this salad comes together quickly for spontaneous meals.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats from avocados and nuts, this salad is not only tasty but also good for you.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a main dish or a side, it’s suitable for casual lunches or elegant dinners alike.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients to suit your taste; add grilled chicken or other seasonal fruits to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing the strawberry spinach salad requires some simple tools that make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar or small bowl
• Pan for toasting almonds
• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board and knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar or small bowl: Ideal for mixing the dressing evenly without making a mess.
• Pan for toasting almonds: A non-stick pan ensures even toasting without burning the nuts.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Cutting board and knife: Essential for safely slicing fruits and vegetables.

Ingredients

Gorgeous summer strawberry spinach salad topped with avocado, feta, red onion, toasted almonds, pistachios and drizzled with a flavorful strawberry balsamic vinaigrette. The best ever strawberry salad recipe that’s sweet, tangy, crunchy, creamy and the perfect lunch or easy side dish!

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

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

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

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

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

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, add the organic spinach as the base.
2. Layer on the halved strawberries, sliced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, feta cheese, toasted almonds, and chopped pistachios.
3. You can either drizzle the dressing over the entire salad now or serve it on the side for individual servings.
4. Top each serving with extra toasted almonds if desired and drizzle each bowl with about one-quarter of the dressing.

Enjoy this delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic as a refreshing meal that’s both satisfying and healthy!

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Light Lunch

• Pair the salad with a slice of whole-grain bread for a fulfilling meal.
• Add grilled chicken or turkey for extra protein and heartiness.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled meats or seafood to complement their flavors.
• This salad works beautifully next to a hearty grain dish, like quinoa or farro.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately, combining them just before serving.
• Use jars for easy transport and layer the ingredients to prevent sogginess.

At Picnics or Barbecues

• Pack individual servings in mason jars for a fresh and portable option.
• Bring along extra dressing on the side for guests to add as they wish.

How to Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

To make the most out of your strawberry spinach salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh strawberries and spinach for the best flavor and texture.
• Toast Nuts: Toasting almonds enhances their flavor, giving your salad an additional crunch.
• Make Ahead Dressing: Prepare the strawberry balsamic vinaigrette ahead of time and refrigerate it for convenience.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add more strawberry jam based on your taste preference.
• Season Well: Don’t forget to season your salad generously with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Looking for perfect accompaniments to your strawberry spinach salad? Here are some delightful side dishes that pair well.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Juicy chicken skewers seasoned simply with herbs complement the freshness of the salad.
2. Quinoa Tabbouleh – A refreshing grain dish packed with herbs, tomatoes, and cucumbers that adds an earthy touch.
3. Roasted Vegetable Medley – Colorful roasted veggies provide warmth and depth alongside your chilled salad.
4. Hummus and Veggie Platter – Creamy hummus served with crunchy veggies makes for a healthy and satisfying snack option.
5. Chickpea Salad – A protein-rich chickpea salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette brings zesty flavor to the table.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices can create a hearty yet healthy meal pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind.

• Skipping the Toasting Step: Toasting the almonds adds a wonderful crunch and depth of flavor. Don’t skip it; simply heat them in a pan until golden brown.
• Using Unripe Strawberries: Unripe strawberries can be sour and less flavorful. Always opt for ripe, sweet berries for the best taste.
• Overdressing the Salad: Too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount, add more as needed, and allow guests to dress their own servings.
• Neglecting Ingredient Prep: Properly slice and prepare your ingredients for an attractive presentation. Take time to cut avocados and red onions thinly for better texture.
• Storing Leftovers Improperly: Ensure any leftovers are stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Do not mix dressing with salad until serving to prevent wilting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store unused salad in an airtight container.
• It lasts for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the texture of fresh ingredients.

Reheating Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Oven: Not recommended as it may wilt fresh ingredients.
• Microwave: Use sparingly for any leftovers; heat in short intervals to avoid cooking.
• Stovetop: If necessary, gently warm on low heat without cooking the spinach or strawberries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions about making a delicious Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic.

Can I customize my Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, seeds, or even grilled chicken for protein. Feel free to experiment!

How long will my salad stay fresh?

Your salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 2 days if stored properly.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If you’re looking for alternatives, try using crumbled goat cheese or a plant-based cheese option for a similar texture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

The Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is not just refreshing but also versatile. It’s perfect as a light lunch or side dish at gatherings. Customize it by adding your favorite toppings or proteins. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!