15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Strawberry Spinach Salad is a healthy, vibrant, and easy-to-make recipe that comes together in 15 minutes! Featuring Feta cheese, pecans, and a simple Balsamic dressing, this salad will make a perfect side dish for any weeknight dinner. It is also a crowd-pleaser for many holiday occasions, picnics, potlucks, and other friends and family gatherings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad can be ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing fresh fruits and greens ensures a burst of flavor and nutrition in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side for meals or as a light lunch on its own. You can even customize it with your favorite toppings.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy feta, and crunchy pecans is irresistible!
• Healthy Choice: Packed with vitamins and nutrients, this salad fits well into any healthy eating plan.

Tools and Preparation

To make the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad effortlessly, having the right tools handy can save you time and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Salad serving bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing the Balsamic dressing smoothly, ensuring every ingredient blends well.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes slicing strawberries quick and easy.

Ingredients

For the Dressing

• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)

For the Salad

• 10 oz baby spinach (fresh)
• 3 cups strawberries (cleaned and hulled, sliced)
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1/3 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1 cup pecans (toasted, some of them chopped)

How to Make 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar).
2. Whisk until well blended. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Rinse the baby spinach under cold water and dry it thoroughly.
2. Slice the strawberries after hulling them.
3. If using whole pecans, toast them in a skillet over medium heat until fragrant.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large salad serving bowl, add the prepared spinach.
2. Top with sliced strawberries, blueberries, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted pecans.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

1. Gently toss all ingredients to combine them evenly.
2. Serve immediately to enjoy at its freshest!

How to Serve 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Serving your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad can enhance the dining experience. This fresh and vibrant dish pairs well with various meals and occasions, making it a versatile choice.

As a Light Lunch

• Serve it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
• Pair with a slice of whole grain bread to create a satisfying meal.

At a Summer Picnic

• Use mason jars for easy transport; layer the salad ingredients to keep them fresh.
• Add some crunchy tortilla chips on the side for extra texture.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Present on a large platter for a beautiful centerpiece.
• Garnish with additional strawberries and pecans to elevate its look.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled steak or fish for a balanced meal.
• It complements hearty dishes like lasagna or roasted vegetables perfectly.

With a Cheese Board

• Include this salad as part of a larger cheese and charcuterie spread.
• It adds freshness that balances out rich cheeses and cured meats.

How to Perfect 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

To make your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad even more delightful, consider these tips:

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh strawberries and baby spinach make all the difference in flavor.
• Toast Pecans: Toasting brings out the nutty flavor in pecans, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.
• Make Dressing Ahead: Prepare the balsamic dressing in advance; it saves time and allows flavors to meld.
• Experiment with Fruits: Try adding other fruits like mandarin oranges or apples for variety.
• Use Different Cheeses: Feta is great, but goat cheese or blue cheese can offer unique flavors too.

Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Pairing your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad with complementary side dishes creates a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken: Marinated chicken breast cooked to perfection makes for a protein-rich addition.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish mixed with herbs adds fiber and complements the salad’s freshness.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender provide hearty contrast to the salad’s textures.
4. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread offers a comforting carb option alongside the crisp salad.
5. Pasta Primavera: A light vegetable pasta dish brightens up any table while keeping it healthy.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice, beans, or meat create an eye-catching pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your salad turns out perfectly.

• Ingredients Selection: Using non-fresh ingredients can ruin the salad’s taste. Always choose fresh spinach and ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
• Skipping Toasting Nuts: Not toasting the pecans can lead to a bland flavor. Toast them lightly to enhance their nutty crunch and aroma.
• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more gradually until you reach the desired taste.
• Neglecting Preparation Order: Mixing all ingredients at once can cause bruising. Add delicate items like strawberries last for better presentation.
• Ignoring Portion Sizes: Serving too much salad at once can overwhelm guests. Consider serving smaller portions, especially for gatherings.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture and flavor.
• If you must freeze, consider only freezing individual components (like nuts) separately.

Reheating 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

• Oven: Not applicable for salads; serve cold.
• Microwave: Avoid microwaving; enjoy fresh for best taste.
• Stovetop: This salad is meant to be served cold and fresh; reheating is not advised.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad.

How can I customize my 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad?

You can add grilled chicken or shrimp for protein or swap feta cheese with goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

Can I use frozen strawberries in this salad?

Frozen strawberries may release extra moisture when thawed, which can affect the texture. Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best experience.

What other dressings work well with this salad?

A honey mustard dressing or a simple olive oil vinaigrette also pairs beautifully with strawberry spinach salads.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare components ahead of time, but mix just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

Final Thoughts

The 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is not just quick and easy; it’s versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it with different toppings or dressings based on your preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy its delightful flavors that will please everyone at your table!