Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Gorgeous summer strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. This salad combines the sweetness of strawberries with the freshness of spinach, making it an ideal choice for lunch or as a side dish. Topped with creamy avocado, tangy feta, and crunchy nuts, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and elevate your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet strawberries and creamy feta creates a refreshing taste that excites the palate.
• Versatile Dish: This salad can serve as a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or even a main course when paired with grilled chicken.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from spinach, strawberries, and nuts, this salad supports a balanced diet while being delicious.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this stunning dish in no time.
• Make-Ahead Option: The components can be prepared in advance, making it easy to assemble when you’re ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic successfully, having the right tools is essential for efficiency and ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar or small bowl
• Large mixing bowl
• Stove or stovetop pan
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar or small bowl: Perfect for mixing the vinaigrette; it’s easy to shake and combine ingredients.
• Large mixing bowl: Allows you to layer all salad ingredients without spilling.
• Stove or stovetop pan: Essential for toasting almonds to bring out their flavor and crunch.

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

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How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette

1. In a mason jar or small bowl, add all of the dressing ingredients.
2. Shake or mix well to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

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

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, add the organic spinach as your base.
2. Layer on the halved strawberries, sliced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, toasted almonds, and chopped pistachios.
3. You can either drizzle some dressing over the top now or serve it on the side for individual servings.

Step 4: Serve

1. Top each serving with extra toasted almonds if desired.
2. Drizzle each bowl with a quarter of the prepared dressing just before serving.

Enjoy your delicious strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic!

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Serving your strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic can elevate any meal. This fresh, vibrant dish is perfect for gatherings or a light lunch. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Individual Bowls

• Serve the salad in individual bowls for a personalized touch. Drizzle each bowl with the strawberry balsamic dressing just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Adding sliced grilled chicken can turn this salad into a complete meal. The savory flavor complements the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.

Serve as a Side Dish

• This salad works wonderfully as a side dish for barbecues or picnics. Its bright colors and flavors will impress your guests.

Add Extra Toppings

• Consider adding extra toppings like seeds or nuts for added crunch. Sunflower seeds or walnuts can also provide a different texture and flavor profile.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh mint or basil can enhance the flavors even more. Sprinkle some chopped herbs over the top for a refreshing finish.

How to Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

To make your strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic truly stand out, here are some tips to follow:

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and ripe strawberries. This ensures maximum flavor and nutrition in your salad.
• Toast the nuts: Toasting almonds and pistachios enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the salad.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill for about 10 minutes lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with dressings: Feel free to customize your vinaigrette by adding herbs like thyme or tarragon for an extra layer of flavor.
• Balance textures: Incorporate creamy avocado and crunchy nuts to create a harmonious texture that makes each bite exciting.
• Serve immediately: For optimal freshness, serve your salad right after dressing it, preventing sogginess from the vinaigrette.

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Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Pairing side dishes with your strawberry spinach salad can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn complements the fruity notes of the salad perfectly.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf adds protein and fiber while keeping the meal gluten-free.
3. Garlic Breadsticks: Crispy breadsticks provide a hearty contrast to the lightness of the salad.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring warmth and depth to your dining experience.
5. Caprese Skewers: These skewers combine tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, echoing similar flavors found in the salad.
6. Fruit Platter: A colorful fruit platter offers a refreshing addition that pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes.
7. Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes add comfort while balancing out the freshness of your main dish.
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and herbs can serve as an enticing complement to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your spinach and strawberries. Fresh ingredients ensure a vibrant flavor and texture.
• Skipping the toasting step: Toasting your almonds enhances their flavor. Don’t skip this step; it only takes a few minutes but makes a big difference.
• Overdressing the salad: It’s easy to go overboard with dressing. Start with less, and add more as needed to avoid soggy greens.
• Ignoring balancing flavors: Ensure you have a good balance of sweet and savory elements in your salad. Adjust the vinaigrette if necessary.
• Not letting the dressing sit: Allowing the dressing to rest for a few minutes helps meld the flavors together. Don’t rush this step for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 2 days in the fridge.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Freezing is not recommended: The texture of spinach and strawberries changes when frozen, leading to mushiness upon thawing.
• Instead, prepare fresh salads as needed.

Reheating Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet and warm for about 5 minutes, keeping an eye on it.
• Microwave: Place salad in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through but be cautious not to overcook.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, warm gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make strawberry spinach salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time but keep them separate until serving for optimal freshness.

How do I customize my strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic?

You can add nuts, seeds, or different cheeses like goat cheese or blue cheese for added flavor.

What is the best way to serve strawberry balsamic dressing?

Serve it on the side so that everyone can dress their salad according to their preference.

Can I use other fruits in this salad?

Absolutely! Other berries or fruits like peaches or apples would complement this salad nicely.

Final Thoughts

This strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is not only visually appealing but also offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s versatile enough for lunch or as a side dish at dinner. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the dressing according to your taste preferences. Enjoy making this refreshing dish!

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Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

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Gorgeous and vibrant, this summer strawberry spinach salad with homemade strawberry balsamic vinaigrette is a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. Combining the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the crispness of organic spinach, this salad is not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients. Topped with creamy avocado, tangy feta cheese, and crunchy nuts, it’s an ideal choice for a light lunch or as a delightful side dish at your next gathering. The quick preparation time makes it easy to whip up, and its versatility allows you to customize it according to your tastes—whether you serve it as a main course with grilled chicken or enjoy it as-is.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

• Organic spinach
• Ripe strawberries
• Avocado
• Red onion
• Feta cheese
• Sliced almonds
• Pistachios

Instructions

1. In a mason jar, mix balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and strawberry jam. Shake well to combine.
2. Toast sliced almonds in a pan over medium heat until golden brown (about 2–5 minutes).
3. In a large bowl, layer spinach, halved strawberries, sliced avocado, red onion, crumbled feta cheese, toasted almonds, and pistachios.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving for freshness.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 305
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: For added texture, consider incorporating sunflower seeds or walnuts. Fresh herbs like mint or basil can enhance flavors; sprinkle them on top before serving. Chilling the salad for about 10 minutes allows flavors to meld together beautifully.