15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful way to brighten up your meal, then this 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is just the ticket! This vibrant salad combines fresh spinach and juicy strawberries, drizzled with a simple balsamic dressing that sings with flavor. It’s a personal favorite of mine because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It’s a fantastic side dish that pairs well with almost anything—from grilled chicken to hearty pasta. Plus, it’s always a hit at potlucks and picnics, where friends and family can’t get enough of its fresh taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 15 minutes, you can have a fresh salad ready to go!
• Family-friendly: The sweet strawberries and creamy feta make this salad appealing to both kids and adults.
• Versatile dish: Perfect as a side for any meal or as a light lunch on its own.
• Nutritious ingredients: Packed with vitamins from spinach and antioxidants from berries, it’s a wholesome choice.
• Make-ahead option: You can prep the ingredients in advance and toss them together when you’re ready to serve!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our salad! Each one brings something special to the mix, creating a wonderful balance of flavors and textures.

For the Salad

• 10 oz baby spinach (fresh)
• 3 cups strawberries (cleaned and hulled, sliced)
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1/3 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1 cup pecans (toasted, some of them chopped)

For the Dressing

• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)

Variations

One of the best things about this 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of energy.
• Change the nuts: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
• Mix up the cheese: If feta isn’t your favorite, goat cheese or even blue cheese can add a lovely tang.
• Try different fruits: Add raspberries or mandarin oranges for an exciting twist in flavor!

How to Make 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by making your dressing. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup balsamic vinegar with 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar). Whisk them together until smooth. This step is crucial because it balances the tartness of the vinegar with sweetness, enhancing all the flavors in your salad.

Step 2: Wash and Slice the Fruits

Next, wash your 3 cups of strawberries, hulled and sliced them into bite-sized pieces. Rinse off 1 cup of blueberries. These bright berries are not only beautiful but they also add natural sweetness that complements the spinach beautifully.

Step 3: Toast the Pecans

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast your 1 cup of pecans, stirring occasionally until they are fragrant (about 5 minutes). Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and adds an irresistible crunch to your salad.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the fresh 10 oz baby spinach, sliced strawberries, blueberries, crumbled feta cheese (1/3 cup), and toasted pecans. Drizzle your homemade dressing over everything. Toss gently to combine without bruising the delicate spinach leaves.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Finally, serve your beautiful salad right away! The colors are vibrant and inviting; it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy this healthy dish alongside your favorite meals or even as a light lunch on its own!

Pro Tips for Making 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Creating a delicious salad in just 15 minutes is totally achievable with a few handy tips! Here are some suggestions to elevate your Strawberry Spinach Salad experience:

• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe strawberries make all the difference in taste and texture. Look for vibrant colors and firm berries to ensure a delightful crunch in every bite.

• Toast your pecans: Toasting enhances the flavor of the pecans, adding a warm, nutty essence. Simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they’re golden and fragrant.

• Make the dressing ahead: If you’re short on time during meal prep, whip up the balsamic dressing ahead of time. Store it in the fridge so it’s ready to go when you’re assembling your salad.

• Customize your toppings: Feel free to mix it up with different toppings like sunflower seeds or avocado slices. This allows you to cater to various tastes and dietary preferences while keeping it exciting.

• Serve immediately: To keep the salad crisp, serve it right after tossing with the dressing. If you need to prepare it ahead, store the dressing separately until you’re ready to dig in!

How to Serve 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Presenting your beautiful Strawberry Spinach Salad can be just as enjoyable as making it! With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, this salad deserves some thoughtful presentation.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: Adding a few mint leaves not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides an aromatic freshness that complements the strawberries beautifully.

• Additional crumbled feta: Sprinkle some extra feta on top just before serving for an added pop of flavor and an attractive finish.

Side Dishes

• Grilled chicken skewers: These lean proteins pair perfectly with the salad’s sweetness and provide a satisfying texture contrast. Plus, they are easy to prepare and serve!

• Quinoa pilaf: A light quinoa dish flavored with herbs or vegetables adds heartiness without overshadowing the freshness of the salad. It’s nutritious and makes for a well-rounded meal.

• Roasted vegetable platter: A colorful array of seasonal roasted vegetables brings warmth and earthiness that balances out the salad’s sweetness beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad will not only taste amazing but look stunning on any table! Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with friends and family at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

This 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and store it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your salad fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to prevent sogginess.
• Consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as fresh ingredients like spinach and strawberries do not thaw well.
• Instead, prepare individual components like the dressing or toasted pecans ahead of time and store them separately.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s best served cold or at room temperature.
• If you prefer a warm dish, consider sautéing the spinach lightly before adding it to your salad.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making a 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad.

Can I use other fruits in my strawberry spinach salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out strawberries for other berries or fruits like raspberries, blackberries, or even sliced apples for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The honey can also be replaced with maple syrup for a fully vegan option.

What can I serve with my strawberry spinach salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a side dish for pasta. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad as much as I do! It’s not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Perfect for any occasion, this salad brings joy to the table whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings! Happy cooking!