15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Strawberry Spinach Salad is a refreshing and delightful dish that you can whip up in just 15 minutes! This vibrant salad features juicy strawberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta cheese, all drizzled with a sweet balsamic dressing. Perfect as a side for weeknight dinners or as a showstopper at holiday gatherings, this salad will surely impress your guests with its colorful presentation and delicious flavor.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Dressing
• For the Salad
• How to Make 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
• Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
• Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
• Step 3: Add Cheese and Nuts
• Step 4: Dress the Salad
• Step 5: Serve Immediately
• How to Serve 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
• As a Standalone Meal
• Pairing with Grilled Chicken
• With Salmon Fillets
• As a Side for Barbecues
• At Potlucks or Gatherings
• How to Perfect 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
• Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
• Reheating 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other fruits in this salad?
• How do I make this salad vegan?
• What dressing pairs well with Strawberry Spinach Salad?
• Can I prepare this 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad requires only 15 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh fruits and greens, this salad is both healthy and satisfying.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or add protein to make it a main course. It’s perfect for any occasion!
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweetness of the strawberries complements the tangy feta and crunchy pecans beautifully.
• Stunning Presentation: The colorful mix of ingredients makes this salad visually appealing on any table.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this quick and tasty 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Salad serving bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the salad ingredients and dressing thoroughly.
• Whisk: Helps blend the balsamic vinegar and honey into a smooth dressing.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient amounts for perfect flavor balance.

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, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey until well combined.
2. Set aside to allow flavors to meld while you prepare the salad.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

1. In a large salad serving bowl, add the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and blueberries.
2. Toss gently to mix the fruits with the spinach.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Nuts

1. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad.
2. Add toasted pecans, ensuring an even distribution throughout.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

1. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad just before serving.
2. Toss lightly to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Serve your delicious 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad fresh for optimal taste! Enjoy it as a delightful side dish or a light main course perfect for any gathering.

How to Serve 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

This vibrant 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only a quick and healthy dish but also incredibly versatile. Here are some delightful ways to serve it.

As a Standalone Meal

• Enjoy the salad on its own for a light lunch or dinner. It’s filling yet refreshing, perfect for warm days.

Pairing with Grilled Chicken

• Serve the salad alongside grilled chicken breast. The flavors complement each other and create a balanced meal rich in protein.

With Salmon Fillets

• Top your salad with seared salmon fillets. The richness of the salmon pairs beautifully with the sweet strawberries and tangy feta.

As a Side for Barbecues

• This salad makes an excellent side dish at barbecues. Its colors and flavors will impress your guests while providing a refreshing contrast to grilled meats.

At Potlucks or Gatherings

• Bring this salad to potlucks or family gatherings. Its crowd-pleasing ingredients make it a hit among various palates.

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How to Perfect 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

To elevate your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and presentation.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and ripe strawberries for the best taste and texture.
• Toast pecans: Lightly toasting the pecans adds a delicious crunch and depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• Make dressing ahead: Prepare the balsamic dressing in advance to save time. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Add herbs: Fresh mint or basil leaves can brighten up the salad, adding an aromatic twist that complements the fruit.
• Adjust sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can alter the amount of honey or sugar in the dressing for just the right balance.
• Experiment with cheese: Try substituting feta with goat cheese or blue cheese for different flavor profiles that keep things interesting.

Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

This salad pairs well with many dishes, making it an ideal choice for various occasions. Here are some fantastic side dishes to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add color and nutrients.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with herbs is nutritious and complements the freshness of the salad.
3. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread brings a delightful texture contrast while being easy to prepare.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice, beans, or meat make an excellent hearty side.
5. Cold Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with olives and cherry tomatoes offers a Mediterranean flair alongside your main dish.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the tangy elements of your strawberry spinach salad.
7. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can enhance your meal by providing additional flavors and textures.
8. Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers are fun, colorful accompaniments that echo the fruity notes in your salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will elevate your dish.

• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted spinach or overripe strawberries will affect the salad’s flavor and texture. Always choose fresh produce for the best results.
• Neglecting Toasting Nuts: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor. Don’t skip this step; it adds a delightful crunch and richness to the salad.
• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can overwhelm the ingredients. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste for a balanced salad.
• Forgetting to Chill Ingredients: If your spinach or strawberries are warm, they can wilt quicker. Chill them beforehand for a refreshing experience.
• Not Mixing Properly: Tossing the salad gently ensures even distribution of flavors without bruising delicate greens. Use care when combining ingredients.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep dressing separate to preserve freshness.

Freezing 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in spinach and strawberries.
• If necessary, you can freeze the dressing separately for up to 3 months.

Reheating 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm briefly, but avoid wilting greens.
• Microwave: Heat on low for a few seconds; do not overheat as it will make the salad soggy.
• Stovetop: Quickly toss in a pan on low heat if needed; add a splash of water if too dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other fruits in this salad?

Yes! Fruits like raspberries, peaches, or apples work well in place of strawberries.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

What dressing pairs well with Strawberry Spinach Salad?

A balsamic vinaigrette is perfect, but you can also try poppy seed or lemon vinaigrette for variety.

Can I prepare this 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prep ingredients ahead of time. Just dress before serving!

Final Thoughts

The 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is not just quick and easy; it’s also versatile and packed with flavor. Feel free to customize it by adding proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a main dish. Enjoy this delightful recipe at any gathering or weeknight dinner!