Strawberry Spinach Salad

If you’re looking for a delicious and refreshing dish to brighten up your meals, then you’re in for a treat with this Strawberry Spinach Salad! This salad is like a burst of summer on your plate, combining the sweetness of strawberries with the hearty goodness of baby spinach. It’s not just pretty to look at; it’s packed with flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings—just toss it all together, and you have an impressive dish that everyone will love!

This Strawberry Spinach Salad has become a favorite in my kitchen because it’s so versatile. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, taking it to brunch with friends, or simply enjoying it at home, this salad fits right in. Trust me; once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip this salad up in no time!
• Fresh flavors: The combination of sweet strawberries and salty feta creates a delicious contrast that’s simply irresistible.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the vibrant colors and tasty ingredients.
• Versatile dish: It works well as an appetizer, side dish, or even light lunch.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the dressing ahead of time and assemble everything just before serving for maximum freshness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make our Strawberry Spinach Salad. These items are easy to find and will bring bright flavors to your dish!

For the Salad

• 5 cups baby spinach
• 1 pint strawberries (sliced, about 2 cups)
• 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
• ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon

For the Dressing

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tsp maple syrup (or honey)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ¼ tsp salt
• ⅛ tsp ground black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this Strawberry Spinach Salad is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add nuts: Toss in some toasted pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Change the cheese: Try goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier texture.
• Include other fruits: Mix in blueberries or mandarin oranges for additional fruity goodness.
• Swap the protein: Use grilled chicken or chickpeas instead of bacon for a heartier meal.

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients: olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This step is crucial because blending these ingredients creates a sweet and tangy dressing that perfectly complements our salad.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large salad bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, feta cheese, and crumbled bacon. Take your time mixing these ingredients together; each component adds unique flavors that work beautifully when combined.

Step 3: Dress It Up!

Drizzle the dressing overtop just before serving. Gently toss everything together to coat all those lovely ingredients with the dressing. Serving immediately ensures everything stays fresh and vibrant!

And there you have it—a delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Spinach Salad

Creating the perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad is easier than you might think! Here are some tips to elevate your salad-making game.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe strawberries make all the difference in flavor and texture. Look for vibrant, unblemished produce for the best results.

• Chill your salad bowl: A chilled bowl keeps your salad crisp and refreshing, especially on hot summer days. Just pop it in the fridge for 15 minutes before mixing your salad!

• Customize the dressing: Feel free to experiment with the dressing by adding a pinch of garlic powder or swapping out maple syrup for agave nectar. This way, you can make it uniquely yours!

• Layer wisely: To keep your salad fresh longer, add the dressing just before serving. This prevents soggy greens and ensures every bite is perfectly crunchy.

• Add nuts or seeds for crunch: Tossing in some toasted almonds or sunflower seeds adds a delightful crunch and extra nutrition to your salad.

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad

Serving this vibrant Strawberry Spinach Salad can really showcase its beautiful colors and flavors. Here are some fun ideas to present this dish at your next gathering!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of finely chopped mint or basil adds an aromatic touch that complements the strawberries beautifully.
• Edible flowers: Adding a few edible flowers not only looks stunning but also brings a subtle hint of sweetness that pairs nicely with the other flavors.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy grilled chicken skewers seasoned with lemon and herbs are a protein-packed addition that pairs perfectly with the freshness of the salad.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, parsley, and lemon juice offers a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy on the outside add a hearty element that balances well with the lightness of the spinach salad.
• Vegetable Spring Rolls: Fresh vegetable spring rolls filled with crunchy veggies offer a refreshing bite that pairs wonderfully alongside this flavorful salad.

Enjoy crafting your Strawberry Spinach Salad! Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment, making it perfect for busy weekdays or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best to store the dressing separately to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
• Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the fresh ingredients, especially the spinach and strawberries. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

Reheating

• Since this salad is served cold, there’s no need to reheat it. Simply toss again with the dressing before serving if needed.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making a delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad.

Can I make Strawberry Spinach Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all the components of the salad and store them separately until you’re ready to serve. This way, everything stays fresh and crisp!

What can I substitute for bacon in the Strawberry Spinach Salad?

For a vegetarian alternative, consider using crispy chickpeas or sunflower seeds for that satisfying crunch without pork. They add a delightful texture without compromising flavor.

How do I keep my Strawberry Spinach Salad fresh?

To keep your salad fresh, store the dressing separately and combine just before serving. Also, avoid mixing in ingredients that may wilt quickly.

Is there a way to make this Strawberry Spinach Salad vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative and leave out any bacon substitutes.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant Strawberry Spinach Salad as much as I do! It’s such a versatile dish—perfect for summer BBQs, brunches, or even just a refreshing lunch. Each bite is like a taste of sunshine, bursting with flavors that harmonize beautifully. Don’t hesitate to try different toppings or dressings to make it your own! Happy cooking, and may your meals always be filled with joy!