If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant dish that brings together the best of sweet and savory, then this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is just what you need! It’s not only simple to make but also bursting with flavor, making it a favorite in my kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, prepping for a busy weeknight dinner, or simply want something light yet satisfying, this salad fits the bill perfectly. The combination of dark leafy greens and juicy strawberries creates a beautiful contrast, and the candied pecans add that delightful crunch. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll be coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: In just 15 minutes, you can have a delicious salad ready to serve!
Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the mix of flavors and textures.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients ahead of time for easy assembly when you’re ready to eat.
Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from spinach and strawberries, it’s healthy without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Each component plays an important role in creating a balanced dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.

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

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences or what you have at home.

Add protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
Change the cheese: Try goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for something different.
Mix up the nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds depending on what you like.
Use different greens: Arugula or mixed salad greens can add a peppery twist to your salad.

How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Step 1: Prepare the Salad

To start off this colorful dish, grab a large bowl. Combine your washed spinach (or baby kale), sliced strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese. This step is important because layering these fresh ingredients together highlights their natural flavors. Plus, it’s fun to see all those vibrant colors come together!

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

In another bowl, whisk together your balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This homemade dressing brings all the elements of the salad together. It adds an extra layer of flavor that enhances each bite.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Next, pour that delicious dressing over your salad mixture. Give everything a good toss until every leaf is coated evenly. This ensures that each forkful is packed with flavor!

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle those candied pecans on top for added crunch and sweetness. And voila! Your tasty and healthy Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is ready to be served. Enjoy it as a side or make it your main course — either way, it’s sure to impress!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Making the perfect Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is all about the little details, so here are some tips to elevate your salad experience!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and strawberries can make a world of difference in flavor and texture. Look for vibrant greens and plump, juicy strawberries to enhance the overall taste of your salad.
Prepare dressing in advance: Whipping up the balsamic dressing ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. This makes it easy to grab and toss with your salad when you’re ready to serve.
Chill your greens: If you store your spinach or baby kale in the fridge before preparing the salad, it will keep them crisp and refreshing. A chilled salad is always more enjoyable, especially on warm days!
Play with textures: Complement the crunch of pecans by adding other textures. Consider incorporating crispy chickpeas or roasted sunflower seeds for an extra crunch that will keep every bite interesting.
Customize your cheese: While feta adds a delightful tang, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like crumbled goat cheese or even a vegan cheese alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. It can change the flavor profile significantly!

How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is as visually appealing as it is delicious! Here are some ideas on how to present this beautiful dish.

Garnishes

Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped fresh mint or basil over the top for an aromatic touch that enhances flavors.
Edible flowers: Adding a few edible flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies can bring color and elegance to your salad presentation.

Side Dishes

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers marinated in herbs complement the freshness of the salad while adding protein, making for a well-rounded meal.
Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with vegetables like bell peppers and carrots offers a fluffy texture that pairs nicely with the crunchy salad.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with the tartness of strawberries, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.
Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery garlic breadsticks provide a delightful crunch alongside the refreshing salad, perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create not just a meal but an experience that brings joy to everyone at the table. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily store leftovers or make it in advance for a quick, healthy meal option. Here’s how to manage your salad so that it stays fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess.
Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

Unfortunately, this salad is not suitable for freezing due to the fresh ingredients that may lose their texture and flavor.
Instead, consider prepping individual components (like the pecans or dressing) ahead of time and store them in the freezer.

Reheating

Since this salad is served cold, there’s no need to reheat.
If you prefer a warm salad, consider lightly sautéing the spinach before mixing with other ingredients—just be sure to allow it to cool before combining!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans.

Can I use other fruits in my Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?

Absolutely! While strawberries add a delightful sweetness, you can substitute with other fruits like blueberries, apples, or even mandarin oranges for a refreshing twist.

How do I keep my Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans fresh?

To keep your salad fresh longer, store the dressing separately and mix just before serving. This prevents the greens from wilting and maintains crispness.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re looking for alternatives to feta cheese in your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans, try using crumbled goat cheese or a dairy-free cheese option for a similar texture without dairy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans! Its vibrant colors and delightful flavors make it not just a meal but a celebration of freshness. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or enjoying it as a quick lunch, it’s sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations on this recipe—I love hearing from fellow food enthusiasts!