Refreshing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette
I am so glad you are here. This fresh spinach salad recipe combines sweet strawberries, salty feta, and crunchy nuts with a simple balsamic vinaigrette. It is an easy spinach salad idea perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at your next gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
- Total Time: 15 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 5 ounces baby spinach
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, sliced
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup candied pecans or toasted walnuts
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
- For the Balsamic Vinaigrette:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking constantly until the dressing emulsifies. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Wash and dry the baby spinach thoroughly. Place the spinach in a large salad bowl.
- Add the sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, candied pecans, and red onion (if using) to the bowl with the spinach.
- Just before serving, drizzle about half of the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Add more dressing as needed, but avoid over-dressing.
- Serve this easy spinach salad immediately for the best texture.
Notes
- To make this a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken or turkey bacon.
- If you do not have candied pecans, use toasted almonds or walnuts for crunch.
- You can prepare the dressing up to three days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before using.
- For a gourmet spinach salad feel, use fresh parmesan shavings instead of feta.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg