The Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Dressing is the perfect combination of fresh, vibrant, and nutritious ingredients that come together to create a salad that’s both beautiful and delicious. It’s a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors — tender baby spinach leaves, juicy ripe strawberries, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese, all tossed in a rich balsamic vinaigrette that ties everything together perfectly.
This salad is the essence of summer on a plate, though it’s refreshing any time of year. It’s light yet satisfying, making it a great choice for lunch, brunch, or as a side dish with grilled meats or pasta. The natural sweetness of the strawberries pairs wonderfully with the earthy spinach and the tangy balsamic dressing — a match made in culinary heaven!
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this salad because it’s simple yet elegant, bursting with color, texture, and flavor. It’s the kind of dish that looks like it took a lot of effort but actually comes together in just minutes.
Plus, it’s nutrient-rich — packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats — making it a guilt-free pleasure. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, looking for a light lunch, or adding a touch of freshness to a rich meal, this salad fits every occasion.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
This recipe is a must-try because:
- It’s quick and easy — ready in under 15 minutes.
- The flavor combination is extraordinary: sweet, savory, and tangy all in one.
- It’s beautiful to serve, with vibrant red strawberries and lush green spinach.
- It’s customizable — you can add proteins, switch up the nuts, or play with cheeses.
- It’s nutritionally balanced and great for both everyday meals and special occasions.
In short, it’s one of those recipes that make you fall in love with eating fresh and healthy.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings and Nutrition
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 210 kcal per serving
Course and Cuisine
- Course: Salad / Side Dish
- Cuisine: American / Fusion
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach leaves (washed and dried)
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional: blue cheese for stronger flavor)
- ½ cup toasted pecans, almonds, or walnuts
- Optional toppings: sliced avocado, grilled chicken, or sunflower seeds
For the Balsamic Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, combine the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the dressing emulsifies and becomes smooth.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as preferred.
(You can also shake all ingredients in a mason jar for quick mixing.)
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, add baby spinach leaves as the base.
- Top with sliced strawberries, red onion, crumbled cheese, and toasted nuts.
- Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the salad just before serving.
- Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the salad immediately after tossing, while the spinach is fresh and crisp. The balance of flavors and textures makes every bite refreshing and satisfying.
How to Serve
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Perfect as a light lunch, a starter, or a side dish to grilled meats, chicken, or fish.
- For a more filling meal, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Serve it in a large glass bowl for presentation, showing off its beautiful layers of colors.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh strawberries: The fresher and sweeter they are, the better your salad tastes.
- Toast your nuts: Toasting enhances their flavor and crunch.
- Dress lightly: Add the dressing just before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the components ahead of time, but keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
- Adjust sweetness: Depending on your balsamic vinegar, you may need a little extra honey for balance.
Variations
- Protein Boost Salad: Add grilled chicken, turkey, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
- Berry Mix Salad: Add blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for more fruity flavor.
- Nut Swap: Use candied pecans for sweetness or roasted almonds for extra crunch.
- Cheese Choices: Try goat cheese for tang, blue cheese for boldness, or mozzarella pearls for a milder touch.
- Vegan Option: Skip the cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
- Citrus Twist: Add orange slices or a splash of orange juice to the dressing for a bright flavor.
- Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the top for a richer, more gourmet presentation.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Store any leftover salad (without dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Dressing: Can be refrigerated separately for up to 1 week; shake well before reuse.
- Do not freeze — fresh spinach and strawberries lose texture when thawed.
- Meal prep tip: Store the ingredients separately and combine them just before serving.
Special Equipment Needed
- Large salad bowl
- Small mixing bowl or mason jar (for dressing)
- Whisk or fork
- Salad tongs
Conclusion
The Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Dressing is a celebration of freshness and flavor — a simple dish that delights the senses. With its sweet strawberries, crisp spinach, crunchy nuts, and tangy dressing, it’s proof that healthy food can be utterly delicious.
This salad makes an excellent choice for picnics, potlucks, or everyday meals when you crave something light yet satisfying. It’s colorful, wholesome, and easy to make, showing that great flavor doesn’t have to be complicated.
So next time you’re looking for something refreshing and nutritious, whip up this stunning salad — it’s guaranteed to become one of your favorites.
Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Dressing
Description
The Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Dressing is the perfect combination of fresh, vibrant, and nutritious ingredients that come together to create a salad that’s both beautiful and delicious.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
For the Balsamic Dressing:
Instructions
-
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing :In a small bowl or jar, combine the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the dressing emulsifies and becomes smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as preferred. (You can also shake all ingredients in a mason jar for quick mixing.)
-
Step 2: Assemble the Salad :In a large salad bowl, add baby spinach leaves as the base. Top with sliced strawberries, red onion, crumbled cheese, and toasted nuts. Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the salad just before serving. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
-
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy :Serve the salad immediately after tossing, while the spinach is fresh and crisp. The balance of flavors and textures makes every bite refreshing and satisfying.
