15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Strawberry Spinach Salad is a vibrant and healthy dish that comes together in just 15 minutes! This delightful salad features fresh strawberries, creamy Feta cheese, and crunchy pecans, all drizzled with a simple balsamic dressing. Perfect for any weeknight dinner, it shines at holiday gatherings, picnics, and potlucks, making it an ideal choice for various occasions. Its bright colors and fresh flavors will make it a standout side dish on your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with strawberries, spinach, and blueberries for a nutritious boost.
• Versatile Dish: Works as a side or main salad and is great for any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of flavors will impress family and friends alike.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite fruits or nuts for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

To make the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad efficiently, having the right tools at hand is essential. Here are some key items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Salad bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Salad bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining the balsamic dressing smoothly.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for the best flavor.

Ingredients

For the Dressing

• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)

For the Salad

• 10 oz baby spinach (fresh)
• 3 cups strawberries (cleaned and hulled, sliced)
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1/3 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1 cup pecans (toasted, some of them chopped)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by whisking together the balsamic vinegar and honey in a small bowl until well combined. This dressing is sweet yet tangy and perfectly complements the salad.

Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large salad bowl, add the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, blueberries, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted pecans. Toss gently to mix all ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Drizzle the prepared balsamic dressing over the salad. Toss lightly again to ensure every piece is coated with that delicious dressing.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Garnish your salad with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your fresh and colorful dish right away for the best flavor!

How to Serve 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Serving a 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is simple and versatile. This delightful salad can complement various dishes or stand alone as a vibrant meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Perfect Pairing with Grilled Chicken: The fresh flavors of this salad complement the smoky taste of grilled chicken, making it an ideal side.
• Accompaniment to Fish Tacos: Enjoy this salad alongside fish tacos for a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.

At Potlucks or Gatherings

• Shareable Bowl: Serve in a large bowl for guests to help themselves. It’s colorful and inviting, appealing to everyone.
• Individual Cups: For a more formal touch, serve in individual cups. This makes each serving feel special and easy to grab.

For Lunch

• Meal Prep Option: Pack portions in jars for an easy on-the-go lunch. Layer ingredients carefully to maintain freshness throughout the week.
• Add Protein: Toss in grilled shrimp or sliced turkey for a complete meal that adds protein and keeps you full longer.

How to Perfect 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

To ensure your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Ingredients: Use ripe strawberries and fresh baby spinach for the best flavor and texture.
• Chill Your Ingredients: Keep your ingredients cold before assembling the salad. This enhances the freshness and overall enjoyment.
• Toast Pecans Lightly: Toasting pecans brings out their natural oils and intensifies their flavor, adding depth to your salad.
• Make Dressing Ahead: Prepare your balsamic dressing ahead of time. Allowing it to sit enhances its flavor profile.
• Serve Immediately: For optimal crunchiness, serve the salad right after mixing the ingredients together.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Don’t hesitate to add other fruits like apples or nuts such as walnuts for variety.

Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Pairing your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad with complementary side dishes can elevate any meal. Here are some great options that work beautifully together.

1. Grilled Lemon Chicken: Juicy chicken marinated in lemon juice pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of strawberries.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish mixed with herbs can provide a filling yet healthy addition alongside your salad.
3. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks drizzled with garlic butter offer a comforting contrast to the fresh flavors of the salad.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring warmth and earthiness that balance nicely with the refreshing salad.
5. Shrimp Skewers: Grilled shrimp seasoned with spices add a savory element that complements the sweetness of strawberries beautifully.
6. Cheesy Risotto: Creamy risotto serves as a rich side, providing texture and flavor that play off the lightness of the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating a delicious 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or stale spinach and strawberries can ruin the salad’s taste. Always opt for fresh produce for the best flavor and texture.

• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much balsamic dressing can overwhelm the other flavors. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to achieve the right balance.

• Ignoring Texture Variety: A great salad has a mix of textures. Don’t forget to include crunchy elements like toasted pecans, which enhance your salad’s overall appeal.

• Forgetting About Seasoning: Neglecting to season your salad can lead to blandness. A pinch of salt and pepper can elevate the flavors significantly.

• Chilling Ingredients Too Long: While it’s good to keep ingredients cool, letting them sit in the fridge too long before serving can affect freshness. Prepare just before serving for optimal taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your salad in an airtight container.
• Keep it refrigerated for up to 2 days.
• Separate the dressing if you want to maintain freshness.

Freezing 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

• Not Recommended: Freezing this salad may result in soggy spinach and mushy fruit.
• If necessary, freeze components separately for better texture.

Reheating 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes, covered with foil.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (30 seconds) on medium power until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make a quick dressing for my 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad?

A quick dressing can be made by whisking together balsamic vinegar and honey or brown sugar until combined. Adjust sweetness according to your taste preference.

Can I customize my 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other fruits like apples or pears, swap feta cheese for goat cheese, or include grilled chicken for extra protein.

What should I serve with my 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light lunch option on its own. It’s versatile enough for any meal!

Is this 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare each ingredient ahead and assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

Final Thoughts

The 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only quick and easy but also packed with vibrant flavors and nutrients. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light main course, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for endless variations! Enjoy this refreshing salad today!

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15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful and vibrant dish that combines the fresh, sweet flavors of strawberries with the earthy taste of spinach. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this colorful salad featuring creamy feta cheese and crunchy pecans, all drizzled with a homemade balsamic dressing. This versatile salad is perfect for any meal—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering. Its eye-catching colors and refreshing taste make it an instant crowd-pleaser, while its nutritious ingredients ensure you’re getting a healthy boost. Plus, it’s easy to customize by adding your favorite fruits or nuts. Enjoy this quick and wholesome salad as a side or as a light main course that everyone will love!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 10 oz baby spinach (fresh)
• 3 cups strawberries (cleaned and hulled, sliced)
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1/3 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1 cup pecans (toasted, some of them chopped)
• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup balsamic vinegar and 1/4 cup honey until well combined.
2. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix 10 oz baby spinach, 3 cups sliced strawberries, 1 cup blueberries, 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese, and 1 cup toasted pecans.
3. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the salad and toss lightly to coat.
4. Serve Immediately: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Tossing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (200g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 15mg