The Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is a vibrant and refreshing dish, perfect for any occasion. This salad combines dark leafy greens with juicy strawberries, creamy cheese, and crunchy pecans, all drizzled with a homemade balsamic dressing. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic or looking for a healthy side dish at dinner, this salad’s unique blend of flavors and textures will surely impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Fresh Ingredients: The combination of spinach and strawberries offers a burst of freshness that’s both healthy and delicious.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side or make it the main event by adding grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Customizable Flavors: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences, like using goat cheese instead of feta.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins from spinach and antioxidants from strawberries, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delightful salad, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and ensure everything is mixed perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Salad serving bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth emulsification of the dressing for even flavor distribution.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precision in measuring ingredients for consistent results.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 5 oz spinach (or baby kale, washed about 5 cups)
- 1 lb strawberries (washed, hulled and sliced)
- 1/2 cup feta (crumbled or goat cheese)
- 1/4 cup pecans (candied)
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (raw)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base
Start by combining the spinach or baby kale, sliced strawberries, and crumbled cheese in a large mixing bowl. Toss gently to mix.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In another bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. This will create a deliciously tangy dressing.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Pour the dressing over your salad base. Toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 4: Add Crunchy Pecans
Garnish your salad with candied pecans for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. Serve immediately or chill for later!
Enjoy your delightful Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans as a refreshing addition to any meal!
How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is a versatile dish that’s perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal, here are some serving suggestions.
As a Main Course
- Serve the salad as a light main dish. The combination of spinach, strawberries, and pecans makes it filling yet refreshing.
With Grilled Chicken
- Add grilled chicken strips on top for extra protein. This enhances the flavor and turns the salad into a hearty meal.
At a Picnic
- Pack the salad in individual containers for an easy picnic option. It’s simple to transport and tastes great cold.
As a Side Dish
- Pair this salad with grilled meats or fish. Its bright flavors complement savory dishes perfectly.
For Meal Prep
- Prepare the salad in advance by storing the dressing separately. Toss everything together right before serving for fresh taste.
How to Perfect Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
Creating the perfect Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your salad game.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh spinach and ripe strawberries make all the difference in flavor.
- Try different cheeses – Substitute feta with goat cheese or blue cheese for varied taste profiles.
- Add color – Incorporate other fruits like blueberries or mandarin oranges for a vibrant look.
- Toast the pecans – Lightly toasting pecans brings out their natural oils and enhances their crunch.
- Vary your greens – Experiment with arugula or mixed greens for additional textures and flavors.
- Make it seasonal – Adjust ingredients based on what’s available seasonally for optimal freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
Complementing your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans with side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Grilled Salmon – A flavorful fish that pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy elements of the salad.
- Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty side that adds texture and additional nutrients to your meal.
- Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch alongside the refreshing salad.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add warmth and depth of flavor, making your meal more comforting.
- Stuffed Avocados – Creamy avocados filled with protein-rich fillings create a delightful contrast to the crunchy salad.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can serve as an appetizer that complements the flavors of both the salad and any mains you serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Using wilted greens: Always use fresh spinach or baby kale. Wilted greens can ruin the salad’s texture and flavor. Check for vibrant color and crisp leaves before using.
- Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more gradually until you reach your desired taste.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your salad can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper after dressing it to enhance all the ingredients’ flavors.
- Forgetting to mix ingredients properly: If you don’t toss the salad well, some bites will be overdressed while others remain dry. Mix everything thoroughly for a consistent taste throughout.
- Using unripe strawberries: Unripe strawberries can taste sour and affect the overall sweetness of your salad. Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Containers: Use an airtight container to keep ingredients fresh.
- Separation: Keep dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.
Freezing Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
- Not recommended: This salad does not freeze well due to its ingredients. Freshness is key for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
- Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and warm for 5-10 minutes. Avoid heating too long or it may wilt.
- Microwave: Heat on low power for 30 seconds at a time, checking often to prevent overcooking.
- Stovetop: Lightly sauté on low heat for a few minutes, stirring gently until warmed through without wilting the greens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What goes well with Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, making it a perfect side dish or light main course.
How do I customize my Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?
You can add other fruits like blueberries or apples, swap feta for goat cheese, or include additional nuts like walnuts for variety.
Can I make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare all ingredients ahead but keep the dressing separate until just before serving for freshness.
What type of vinegar works best in this salad?
Balsamic vinegar is ideal due to its sweet and tangy flavor that complements both spinach and strawberries well.
Final Thoughts
The Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. It’s perfect as a light lunch or as a refreshing side dish at gatherings. Give it a try, and enjoy creating your unique spin!
Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is a delightful, vibrant dish that perfectly balances the sweetness of strawberries with the earthiness of spinach and the crunch of pecans. This fresh and healthy salad is ideal for summer picnics, family dinners, or as a light lunch. Tossed in a homemade balsamic dressing, this salad not only elevates your meal but also impresses your guests with its burst of flavors and textures. Quick to prepare and highly customizable, it’s a versatile option for any occasion.
- Total Time: 34 minute
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Ingredients
- 5 oz fresh spinach (or baby kale)
- 1 lb ripe strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese)
- 1/4 cup candied pecans
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon raw honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, and crumbled cheese. Toss gently to mix.
- In another bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad base and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Top with candied pecans for added crunch. Serve immediately or chill for later enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: For added protein, consider topping the salad with grilled chicken or shrimp. Customize by adding other fruits like blueberries or mandarin oranges. Use freshly toasted pecans for enhanced flavor.
