Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Recipe By:
Juniper
Updated:
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Gorgeous summer strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is a delightful dish that shines at any gathering. This vibrant salad combines fresh strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy nuts for a burst of flavor and texture. Perfect for picnics, brunches, or as a refreshing side dish, it’s not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. You’ll love the sweet and tangy strawberry balsamic vinaigrette that ties everything together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavor Explosion: The combination of strawberries and balsamic creates a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
  • Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins from spinach and strawberries, this salad supports your health.
  • Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this salad in under 30 minutes.
  • Customizable: Feel free to add other toppings like grilled chicken or nuts based on your preferences.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Great as a main dish for lunch or as a side with dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and easy.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Mason jar or small bowl
  • Frying pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

  • Mason jar or small bowl: Perfect for mixing the dressing efficiently without making a mess.
  • Frying pan: Ideal for toasting almonds to enhance their flavor and crunchiness.
  • Large mixing bowl: Ensures you have enough space to toss all ingredients without spilling.

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 1 package (5 ounces) organic spinach
  • 8 ounces strawberries, halved (about 2 cups halved strawberries)
  • 1 large avocado, sliced
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup feta crumbles
  • ⅓ cup raw sliced almonds
  • ¼ cup chopped shelled roasted pistachios

For the Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette

  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, grated or finely minced
  • ½ teaspoon dijon mustard
  • ½ tablespoon strawberry jam (or jam of choice)
  • Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Strawberry

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a mason jar or small bowl, add all of the dressing ingredients. Shake or mix well until combined. Taste the dressing and adjust salt and pepper if necessary.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

Toast the almonds on the stovetop by adding them to a pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally for 2–5 minutes until they are slightly golden brown. Remove from heat and allow them to cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, add the spinach first. Layer on top the strawberries, avocado slices, red onion, feta cheese, toasted almonds, and chopped pistachios. You can either add dressing now or serve it separately for individual servings.

Step 4: Serve

Top each salad bowl with extra toasted almonds. Drizzle each bowl with one-fourth of the dressing before serving. Enjoy your refreshing strawberry spinach salad!

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Serving Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic can elevate any meal. It’s fresh, vibrant, and versatile enough to complement various dishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

As a Standalone Lunch

  • This salad makes for a light and nutritious lunch option. Pair it with a slice of whole-grain bread for added fiber.

With Grilled Chicken

  • Add grilled chicken slices on top for a protein boost. The flavors of the chicken pair beautifully with the sweet and tangy vinaigrette.

Accompanied by Quinoa

  • Serve it alongside a quinoa dish for a hearty meal. The nutty flavor of quinoa complements the salad’s freshness.

On a Buffet Table

  • This salad is perfect for potlucks or gatherings. Its colorful presentation will attract guests, making it an ideal side dish.

How to Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

To make your Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic truly shine, consider these tips.

  • Choose ripe strawberries: Fresh, juicy strawberries enhance the sweetness of the salad and elevate its overall taste.
  • Use fresh spinach: Opt for organic spinach to ensure a crisp texture and vibrant color in your salad.
  • Toast almonds lightly: Toasting almonds adds depth and crunch. Be careful not to overdo it; just until golden brown is perfect.
  • Balance flavors in dressing: Taste as you mix the vinaigrette to achieve that perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
  • Serve chilled: For the best experience, chill your salad before serving. This keeps the ingredients fresh and refreshing.
  • Add variety: Feel free to experiment by adding other fruits like blueberries or nuts like walnuts for different textures and flavors.
Strawberry

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Spinach Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

  1. Grilled Salmon
    A flaky grilled salmon fillet pairs well with the salad’s vibrant flavors while providing healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
  2. Garlic Bread
    Crispy garlic bread offers a savory contrast to the sweetness of the salad, making it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner.
  3. Roasted Vegetables
    Seasonal roasted vegetables add caramelized flavors that complement the freshness of the salad without overpowering it.
  4. Chickpea Hummus
    Creamy hummus served with pita chips provides a protein-rich option that adds texture and flavor contrast.
  5. Caprese Skewers
    Skewers featuring mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil enhance your meal’s freshness while echoing the salad’s ingredients.
  6. Stuffed Bell Peppers
    These colorful peppers filled with rice, beans, or meat offer a hearty option that pairs nicely with the lightness of the strawberry spinach salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

  • Skipping the Dressing Prep: Many people forget to prepare the dressing first. Always mix the vinaigrette before assembling your salad for even flavor distribution.
  • Using Non-Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your strawberries and spinach are fresh. Wilting or spoiled produce will lead to a less appealing salad.
  • Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a little and add more as needed; it’s easier to add than to take away.
  • Neglecting Toasting Nuts: Toasting almonds and pistachios enhances their flavor. Don’t skip this step; just a few minutes in a pan makes a big difference.
  • Ignoring Texture Balance: A good salad includes a mix of textures. Ensure you have crunchy nuts, creamy avocado, and juicy strawberries for an enjoyable bite.
  • Not Tasting Before Serving: Always taste your salad before serving, especially after adding the dressing. Adjust seasoning as necessary to ensure maximum flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store the salad in an airtight container.
  • It can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
  • Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

  • Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in spinach and strawberries.
  • If you must freeze, store only the ingredients that freeze well, like nuts.

Reheating Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

  • Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread components on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until warmed.
  • Microwave: Place salad in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in short bursts (about 20 seconds) and stir between intervals.
  • Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring gently until heated through without wilting the spinach.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic?

Strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is a refreshing dish featuring organic spinach, fresh strawberries, avocado, feta cheese, and toasted nuts drizzled with a tangy strawberry balsamic vinaigrette.

How long does this salad keep?

The strawberry spinach salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days if kept in an airtight container. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Can I customize my strawberry spinach salad?

Absolutely! You can add other ingredients like grilled chicken, walnuts instead of almonds, or different cheeses based on your preferences.

What should I serve with this dish?

This delicious strawberry spinach salad works well as a light lunch or side dish alongside grilled meats or sandwiches, making it versatile for any meal.

Final Thoughts

This strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is not only beautiful but also packed with flavors and textures that delight every palate. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your tastes or dietary needs. Give it a try for your next lunch or gathering—you won’t be disappointed!

Print
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Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of a Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic, a perfect dish for summer gatherings. This refreshing salad features a delightful mix of organic spinach, sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy nuts, all harmonized by a tangy strawberry balsamic vinaigrette. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, brunch, or simply looking for a nutritious side dish, this salad is not only visually stunning but also brimming with essential nutrients. With its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, you’ll find it an irresistible addition to your meal rotation.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 ounces organic spinach
  • 8 ounces strawberries (halved)
  • 1 large avocado (sliced)
  • ½ small red onion (thinly sliced)
  • ½ cup feta cheese (crumbled)
  • ⅓ cup raw sliced almonds
  • ¼ cup chopped roasted pistachios
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove (minced)
  • ½ teaspoon dijon mustard
  • ½ tablespoon strawberry jam (or jam of choice)
  • Freshly ground salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing by combining balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, strawberry jam, salt, and pepper in a mason jar or bowl. Mix well.
  2. Toast the sliced almonds in a frying pan over medium heat until golden brown (about 2-5 minutes).
  3. In a large bowl, layer the spinach first and then add strawberries, avocado, red onion, feta cheese, toasted almonds, and pistachios. Toss gently.
  4. Serve immediately with the dressing drizzled on top or on the side.
  • Author: Juniper
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing/Toasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 150g)
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Use ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness. Experiment with additional toppings like grilled chicken or different nuts. Chill the salad before serving for an extra refreshing taste.

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