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Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe with Easy Tangy Balsamic Dressing

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A fresh and vibrant strawberry spinach salad with a tangy balsamic dressing, perfect for a quick, light meal or side dish. Combines sweet berries, peppery spinach, crunchy nuts, and creamy feta for a delightful flavor harmony.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups fresh baby spinach (about 180 grams), washed and dried
  • 2 cups strawberries (about 300 grams), hulled and sliced
  • ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • ¼ cup slivered almonds or pecans, toasted
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse baby spinach under cold water and dry thoroughly using a salad spinner or paper towels.
  2. Hull and slice the strawberries into thin, even slices.
  3. Toast the slivered almonds or pecans in a small skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
  4. If using, slice the red onion very thinly. To mellow the flavor, soak slices in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain well.
  5. In a small bowl or jar, combine balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously or shake until the dressing is smooth and slightly thickened.
  6. In a large salad bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
  7. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients without bruising.
  8. Sprinkle toasted nuts on top just before serving to maintain crunch.

Notes

Dry spinach thoroughly to avoid sogginess. Slice strawberries thinly to allow dressing absorption. Toast nuts gently on medium-low heat to avoid burning. Make dressing last and toss salad just before serving to keep spinach crisp. For vegan option, omit feta and use maple syrup instead of honey. Store salad and dressing separately if prepping ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry spinach salad, balsamic dressing, fresh salad, easy salad recipe, healthy salad, summer salad, spring salad, vegetarian salad, gluten-free salad

Find it online: https://grubella.com/fresh-strawberry-spinach-salad-recipe-with-easy-tangy-balsamic-dressing/