Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Gorgeous summer strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic dressing is the ultimate dish for any occasion. This delightful salad combines vibrant strawberries, creamy avocado, and a tangy vinaigrette, making it perfect for lunch, picnics, or as a side dish. The balance of flavors and textures—sweet, tangy, crunchy, and creamy—makes this strawberry spinach salad truly stand out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy the burst of flavor from ripe strawberries and fresh spinach.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 22 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy days.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a light lunch or an elegant side at dinner parties.
• Nutritious: Packed with vitamins from greens and healthy fats from avocado and nuts.
• Flavorful Vinaigrette: The strawberry balsamic dressing elevates the salad to another level.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic dressing, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar or small bowl
• Pan for toasting almonds
• Large mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar or small bowl: Essential for mixing the dressing thoroughly.
• Pan for toasting almonds: Toasting brings out the nutty flavor and enhances texture in the salad.
• Large mixing bowl: Allows ample space to combine all ingredients without mess.

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 cheese
• 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

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

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

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

1. Place raw sliced almonds in a pan over medium heat.
2. Stir occasionally for about 2–5 minutes until they turn slightly golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and let them cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, add organic spinach.
2. Layer on halved strawberries, sliced avocado, red onion, feta cheese, toasted almonds, and chopped pistachios.
3. You can either add some dressing now or serve it separately for individual servings.
4. Top each bowl with extra toasted almonds and drizzle with ¼ of the dressing.

Enjoy your delicious strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic! Serves 4.

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want a light lunch or a refreshing side dish for dinner, this salad is versatile and easy to enjoy.

As a Light Lunch

• A single serving of this salad provides a nutritious and filling option for lunch. Pair it with whole-grain bread or a light soup for a complete meal.

For Dinner Gatherings

• Serve the salad family-style in a large bowl at your next dinner party. It offers a bright and colorful addition to your table, impressing guests with its vibrant flavors.

With Grilled Proteins

• Enhance your meal by serving this salad alongside grilled chicken, turkey, or lamb. The sweet strawberries will complement the savory flavors of the meat beautifully.

As an Appetizer

• Offer small portions of the salad in individual cups as an appetizer. This presentation makes it easy for guests to enjoy before the main course.

How to Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

To make your strawberry spinach salad truly shine, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh organic spinach and ripe strawberries to enhance flavor and texture.
• Chill Your Ingredients: Keeping your ingredients cold will help maintain their crispness, making every bite refreshing.
• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or other fruits based on your preference for extra crunch and flavor.
• Make Ahead Dressing: Prepare the strawberry balsamic vinaigrette ahead of time. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
• Balance Sweetness: Adjust the amount of strawberry jam in your dressing according to your taste preferences; more jam for sweetness or less for tanginess.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Pairing side dishes with strawberry spinach salad can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this vibrant salad well.

1. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs adds protein and complements the freshness of the salad.
2. Grilled Vegetable Platter: Seasonal grilled vegetables offer a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweet strawberries.
3. Roasted Chickpeas: Crispy roasted chickpeas provide additional protein and crunch, making them a satisfying side.
4. Crispy Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a comforting touch that balances the freshness of the salad.
5. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs makes a great addition alongside the fruit-forward flavors.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or grains add visual appeal and heartiness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a strawberry spinach salad can be simple, but common mistakes can dull its flavors and presentation. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Old Ingredients – Freshness matters! Ensure your spinach and strawberries are fresh for the best taste and texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning – Don’t skip salt and pepper in your dressing. These enhance the flavors significantly when properly seasoned.
• Overdressing the Salad – Too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a little, and add more as needed for your preference.
• Neglecting Texture – Include a variety of textures like crunchy nuts and creamy avocado. This makes each bite more enjoyable.
• Skipping Toasting Nuts – Toasting almonds enhances their flavor. Take a few minutes to toast them for better taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad as it may affect the texture of the ingredients, especially the spinach and fresh fruits.

Reheating Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop – Warm gently in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until just heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common inquiries regarding the strawberry spinach salad recipe.

What is Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic?

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is a delightful mix of fresh spinach, strawberries, avocado, feta, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette.

Can I customize my Strawberry Spinach Salad?

Absolutely! Add your favorite nuts or substitute feta with goat cheese or a vegan alternative based on your preferences.

How can I make this salad vegan?

To create a vegan version of Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic, omit feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

What other dressings work well with this salad?

Feel free to experiment with other dressings like honey mustard or lemon vinaigrette to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is not only vibrant but also versatile. It’s perfect for lunch or as an easy side dish at gatherings. Customize it by adding proteins like grilled chicken or swapping out nuts to make it your own!