15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
Strawberry Spinach Salad, a delightful medley of flavors, is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and nutritious dish. This 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only easy to prepare but also makes a stunning presentation for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday gatherings. The combination of fresh ingredients like strawberries and feta cheese brings brightness and taste that will impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad can be made in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The sweet strawberries paired with creamy feta and crunchy pecans create a delicious flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether as a side dish or the main event, this salad fits seamlessly into any meal plan.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with vitamins and nutrients, this salad is a great addition to your Mediterranean diet.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors of the fruits and greens make this dish visually appealing, sure to catch everyone’s eye at the table.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth preparation process. Having the right equipment will help you whip up this 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad effortlessly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Salad serving bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients effortlessly without spilling.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending the dressing ingredients smoothly, ensuring even flavor distribution.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing strawberries and other ingredients quick and easy.
Ingredients
For this delicious 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad, gather the following ingredients:
Fresh Produce
- 10 oz baby spinach (fresh)
- 3 cups strawberries (cleaned and hulled, sliced)
- 1 cup blueberries
Cheese & Nuts
- 1/3 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 1 cup pecans (toasted, some of them chopped)
Dressing Components
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)
How to Make 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup balsamic vinegar and 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar).
- Whisk together until well blended and set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad serving bowl, add 10 oz baby spinach, 3 cups sliced strawberries, and 1 cup blueberries.
- Gently toss the fresh ingredients together to combine.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Nuts
- Sprinkle 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
- Add 1 cup toasted pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture.
- Toss gently to coat all ingredients in dressing without bruising the spinach.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Serve your vibrant 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad immediately for best flavor and freshness! Enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal!
How to Serve 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
This 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Whether as a refreshing starter or a vibrant side dish, it complements various meals beautifully.
As a Starter
- Lightly chilled plates enhance the freshness.
- Pair with crusty bread for a satisfying first course.
With Grilled Chicken
- Top the salad with sliced grilled chicken for added protein.
- This combination makes for a hearty main dish.
For Picnics and Potlucks
- Pack in individual containers for easy serving.
- A crowd-pleaser that pairs well with other picnic foods.
At Holiday Gatherings
- Serve in a large bowl for everyone to share.
- The colorful presentation adds festive flair to any table.
With Quinoa or Farro
- Mix in cooked quinoa or farro for a more filling option.
- This adds texture and additional nutrients to your meal.
How to Perfect 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
To make your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad even better, consider these tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe strawberries will elevate the flavor.
- Toast the pecans: Toasting enhances their nutty flavor and adds crunch.
- Make dressing ahead: Prepare the balsamic dressing in advance for quick assembly.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding grilled shrimp or chickpeas for extra protein options.
Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
The 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some ideas to complement your meal:
-
Garlic Bread
A warm, buttery garlic bread adds richness that balances the salad’s freshness. -
Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal roasted vegetables provide color and earthy flavors that enhance the overall meal. -
Pasta Primavera
This light pasta dish packed with veggies offers a hearty yet healthy addition to your dinner table. -
Grilled Fish
Lightly seasoned grilled fish brings out the fruity notes of the salad while adding lean protein. -
Mediterranean Couscous
Fluffy couscous with herbs and lemon complements the salad’s Mediterranean vibe perfectly. -
Cheese Platter
A selection of cheeses can enhance flavors and create an inviting appetizer spread before the main meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad from good to great. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Overdressing the salad: Using too much dressing can make your salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
- Ignoring freshness: Using wilted spinach or overripe strawberries can ruin your salad. Always choose fresh, vibrant ingredients for the best flavor.
- Not toasting pecans: Untoasted nuts lack flavor and crunch. Toast your pecans for a richer taste and better texture.
- Skipping the cheese: Feta adds creaminess and tang. Omitting it will result in a less flavorful salad; make sure to include it!
- Cutting fruits too early: Sliced fruits can brown and lose their freshness quickly. Slice strawberries right before serving for optimal taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
- It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the spinach and fruits will change upon thawing.
Reheating 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm briefly if necessary; however, salads are best served cold.
- Microwave: Use low power for short intervals if you prefer a warm salad, but avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Gently heat in a pan, but use caution not to wilt the spinach too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a delicious 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad:
Can I add other fruits?
Yes! You can mix in other fruits like apples or oranges for extra flavor.
How do I make it vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
What are some good protein additions?
Grilled chicken or chickpeas make excellent additions for added protein.
How can I customize the dressing?
Feel free to swap balsamic vinegar with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for a different taste!
Final Thoughts
The 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only quick and easy but also brings vibrant flavors together in one bowl. Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite toppings or dressings, and enjoy this delightful dish at picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners!
15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Strawberry Spinach Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines sweet strawberries, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy pecans with nutrient-rich spinach. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering. In just 15 minutes, you can impress your guests with this delightful medley of flavors that not only looks stunning but also offers a healthy option packed with vitamins.
Ingredients
- 10 oz baby spinach (fresh)
- 3 cups strawberries (cleaned, hulled, sliced)
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/3 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 1 cup pecans (toasted)
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing by whisking together balsamic vinegar and honey in a mixing bowl until well blended.
- In a large salad serving bowl, combine baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and blueberries. Toss gently to mix.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and toasted pecans over the salad.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients without bruising the spinach.
- Serve immediately for best flavor and freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 generous salad portion (about 250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
