Spinach and Strawberry Salad

Spinach and strawberry salad is a light, vibrant, and refreshing dish that brings together sweet strawberries, tender baby spinach, and a tangy homemade dressing. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, an elegant side for dinner, or something fresh for a potluck, this salad is always a crowd pleaser.

Why You’ll Love this Spinach and Strawberry Salad Recipe

Quick and Easy : Takes just 10 minutes to make.
Healthy and Nutritious : Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins.
Perfect for Any Season : Especially delicious in spring and summer.
Easily Adjustable : Add cheese, nuts, protein, or grains.
Great as a Side or Main Dish : Pair it with grilled meats or enjoy it on its own.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

Baby Spinach : Fresh baby spinach is tender and mildly sweet. It’s the perfect base for this salad. If you prefer a mix, you can substitute with arugula, spring greens, or even kale (massaged with a little olive oil).
Strawberries : Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. You can slice them thin or halve them. In the off-season, try raspberries, blueberries, or mandarin oranges.
Red Onion : Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp, savory contrast. You can use shallots for a milder flavor or soak the onions in cold water for a few minutes to tone down the bite.
Nuts or Seeds : Sliced almonds, candied pecans, or walnuts give the salad crunch. For nut-free options, pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds work well.
Cheese : Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds creamy richness. Blue cheese is also a bold and tangy option. If you’re dairy free, skip the cheese or use a plant based alternative.
Dressing : A balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together with a tangy sweet balance. You can make it from scratch (recommended) or use a store-bought version. Other good options: poppy seed dressing or honey Dijon vinaigrette.

How to Make Spinach and Strawberry Salad

A spoonful of fresh spinach and strawberry salad with nuts and feta

Step by Step Instructions for making Spinach and Strawberry Salad

1. Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together ; balsamic vinegar, Olive oil, Honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, Salt and black pepper. Shake or whisk until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

2. Wash and Dry the Produce

Rinse the spinach and strawberries under cold water. Pat dry thoroughly. Slice the strawberries and onions thinly.

3. Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl or on a serving platter ; add the baby spinach, top with sliced strawberries, sprinkle on red onions, crumbled cheese, and nuts.

4.Dress and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss lightly to combine or serve the dressing on the side.

Fresh spinach and strawberry salad with feta and nuts served in a bowl

Additions and Variations

Add Protein : Grilled chicken, Seared salmon, Quinoa or lentils, or Boiled eggs
Add More Fruit : Blueberries, Sliced apples, Pears, or Pomegranate seeds.
Make it a Meal : Add grains like farro or couscous to bulk it up into a satisfying lunch or light dinner.
Try a New Dressing : Swap balsamic vinaigrette for poppy seed dressing, Lemon vinaigrette, Strawberry vinaigrette, Honey mustard dressing

Tips for Best Spinach and Strawberry Salad

Use Fresh Ingredients : Especially when it comes to the spinach and strawberries.
Dry Greens Well : Wet spinach can water down your dressing and make the salad soggy.
Balance Flavors : Make sure you have sweet (strawberries), tangy (dressing), salty (cheese), and crunchy (nuts) components.
Dress Right Before Serving : This keeps the spinach crisp.
Toast the Nuts : Lightly toasting nuts enhances their flavor and makes them crunchier.

How to Store Leftovers

If the salad is already dressed, it’s best eaten the same day. If you plan to store leftovers, keep the salad and dressing separate.

Undressed Salad: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Dressing: Keep in a sealed jar or bottle in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

How to Reheat

This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. It’s not suitable for reheating.

If you’ve added grilled chicken or another protein, you can warm that separately and add it to the salad just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Spinach and strawberry salad works well with:

Grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork
Summer BBQ dishes
Light soups like tomato basil or chicken vegetable
Sandwiches or wraps
A crusty baguette or focaccia on the side

Nutritional Value

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and will vary depending on the exact ingredients and amounts used (e.g., type of cheese, nuts, and dressing).

Recipe FAQs

Can I make spinach and strawberry salad ahead of time?
Yes. Prep all the ingredients separately and store them in the fridge. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving.

What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
You can use apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar. Add a touch more honey to balance the acidity.

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh is best. Frozen strawberries tend to be too soft and watery for this salad.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the salad and dressing are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure any add-ins (like store-bought dressings or croutons) are labeled gluten free.

Can I use a different green instead of spinach?
Absolutely. Try arugula, kale (massaged), or mixed baby green