Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish that celebrates the best of fresh ingredients, then you’re in the right place with this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans! This salad is a delightful blend of dark leafy greens, juicy strawberries, and crunchy pecans, all tossed together with a homemade balsamic dressing. It’s one of those recipes that I keep coming back to because it’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, it always brings smiles to the table.

What makes this salad truly special is how easy it is to prepare while still feeling fancy. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, making it a favorite among friends and family alike. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens while enjoying the sweetness of strawberries!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: You can whip this up in just 15 minutes! Perfect for those hectic days.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the sweet-tart combination of strawberries and pecans, making mealtime enjoyable for all ages.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients ahead of time and toss everything together when you’re ready to eat.
• Fresh and Flavorful: Each bite bursts with freshness from the spinach and strawberries, complemented by the creamy cheese and crunchy nuts.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have at home or your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this salad. You likely have many of these in your kitchen already!

For the Salad

• 5 oz spinach (or baby kale, washed about 5 cups)
• 1 lb strawberries (washed, hulled and sliced)
• 1/2 cup feta (crumbled or goat cheese)
• 1/4 cup pecans (candied)

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar)
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey (raw)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Variations

The beauty of this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
• Mix Up the Greens: Try using arugula or mixed baby greens for a different flavor profile.
• Change the Cheese: Swap feta for crumbled blue cheese or leave out the cheese entirely for a vegan option.
• Include Other Fruits: Add slices of kiwi or blueberries for more fruity goodness!

How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Step 1: Combine the Greens and Strawberries

To make this delicious salad, start by combining some yummy mixed salad greens with sliced strawberries and crumbled cheese in a large bowl. This step lays a beautiful foundation for your dish. The mix of textures will keep everyone coming back for more!

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together some balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until they’re well combined. This dressing really brings everything together—it’s tangy yet slightly sweet. Just remember to taste as you go; you want it to suit your palate perfectly!

Step 3: Toss It All Together

Next, pour the dressing over your salad mix and give everything a good toss until it’s evenly coated. This is where all those vibrant colors really shine! Don’t be shy—get in there with your hands if you need to; it’s part of the fun!

Step 4: Garnish with Pecans

For some added flavor and crunch, garnish your beautiful salad with candied pecans. And voila! Your tasty and healthy Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is ready to be served and enjoyed! It’s sure to be a hit at any meal.

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Creating a delicious Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is easier than you might think! Here are some pro tips to elevate your salad game:

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh spinach and ripe strawberries not only enhances the flavor but also adds vibrant color to your dish, making it more visually appealing and nutritious.

• Make Your Dressing Ahead: Preparing the balsamic dressing in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. A little time can make a big difference in taste!

• Add Texture: For extra crunch, consider adding other nuts like walnuts or sunflower seeds. This variation will give your salad an interesting texture and additional nutrients.

• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! These basic seasonings can transform the flavors of your salad, making everything pop and come together harmoniously.

• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your salad right after tossing it with the dressing. This ensures that the greens remain crisp and fresh, preventing any sogginess.

How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Presenting your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans beautifully can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh Mint Leaves: Adding a few sprigs of fresh mint not only looks lovely but also introduces a refreshing aroma that complements the strawberries.
• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkling some chopped green onions on top adds a delightful crunch and a slight oniony flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the strawberries.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Breast: Lightly seasoned and grilled chicken adds protein without overpowering the salad’s flavors, making it a perfect main dish pairing.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf cooked with vegetable broth adds heartiness and additional nutrients while remaining light and healthy.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes creates a lovely balance when served alongside this salad, providing warmth and satisfaction.
• Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup makes for a comforting side that complements the freshness of your salad beautifully, offering a rounded meal experience.

Enjoy preparing and serving this delightful Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans—it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is perfect for meal prep! It’s fresh, vibrant, and can be easily stored to enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• For best results, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
• Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Unfortunately, this salad is not suitable for freezing due to the delicate nature of spinach and strawberries.
• It’s best enjoyed fresh!

Reheating

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

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delightful salad.

Can I use other greens instead of spinach in the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?

Absolutely! You can substitute baby kale or arugula for a different flavor profile. Both options pair beautifully with strawberries and pecans.

How can I make the dressing for my Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans healthier?

To make it lighter, reduce the amount of olive oil and honey. You could also try using a yogurt-based dressing as an alternative for creaminess without added fat.

What can I substitute for feta cheese in this salad?

If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try using crumbled tofu or leave out the cheese altogether. The salad will still be delicious!

Can I add other fruits to my Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries, mandarin oranges, or sliced apples for extra sweetness and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this refreshing Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans as much as I do! It’s a wonderful combination of flavors that’s not only healthy but also visually stunning. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a meal prep staple, it’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!