Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is a delightful dish that combines vibrant flavors and textures. This refreshing salad is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer picnic or looking for a healthy lunch option. With its dark leafy greens, juicy strawberries, and crunchy pecans, every bite offers a burst of deliciousness. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, making it a standout choice for your meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of spinach and strawberries brings freshness to your plate, while the balsamic dressing adds a tangy kick.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side dish or as a light main course; it fits seamlessly into any meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals from spinach and strawberries, this salad is as healthy as it is tasty.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its beautiful presentation and delicious taste make it an instant favorite at gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining your salad ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps in blending the dressing smoothly for an even coating on the salad.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient portions for the best flavor balance.

Ingredients

Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans – Dark leafy greens, juicy red strawberries, briny cheese, and candied nuts are tossed in a homemade balsamic dressing.

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)

How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Step 1: Combine Salad Ingredients

Start by placing the spinach in a large mixing bowl. Add the sliced strawberries and crumbled cheese to the bowl.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the balsamic glaze (or vinegar), olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Toss the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss everything well to ensure that all components are evenly coated with the delicious dressing.

Step 4: Add Crunchy Pecans

Garnish your salad with candy-coated pecans for added flavor and crunch. Serve immediately for the best taste!

How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

This delightful Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is versatile and can be served in various ways to suit different occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy the salad on its own for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of spinach, strawberries, and pecans makes it satisfying and nutritious.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken breast for a protein boost. The savory flavor of the chicken complements the sweetness of the strawberries perfectly.

On a Buffet Table

• Serve it at gatherings or potlucks as part of a buffet spread. This colorful salad will attract guests and add freshness to the table.

As a Side Dish

• Use it as a side dish alongside main courses like steak or baked fish. Its flavors balance well with hearty meals while adding a refreshing crunch.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Prepare and pack individual servings in meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

How to Perfect Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Perfecting your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your salad game.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh, ripe strawberries and crisp spinach. Freshness enhances flavor and texture.
• Make your dressing in advance: Prepare the balsamic dressing ahead of time to let the flavors meld together, making it even more delicious.
• Add variety: Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch and unique flavor profiles.
• Serve chilled: For an extra refreshing experience, chill your salad before serving, especially on warm days.
• Tweak cheese options: Try using goat cheese or blue cheese instead of feta for different taste experiences that pair beautifully with strawberries.
• Garnish creatively: Add edible flowers or microgreens on top for an elegant presentation that impresses guests.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Complement your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans by pairing it with these delightful side dishes. They will enhance your meal while keeping it balanced and flavorful.

1. Quinoa Pilaf: A light and nutritious grain dish seasoned with herbs, perfect for adding texture.
2. Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks bring a comforting element that pairs well with salads.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection add depth and earthiness to your meal.
4. Cheesy Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cream cheese offer richness that balances the salad’s freshness.
5. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds Mediterranean flair.
6. Fruit Platter: A vibrant assortment of seasonal fruits provides a sweet contrast to the savory salad elements.
7. Creamy Potato Salad: This classic side dish offers comfort while complementing the freshness of the salad beautifully.
8. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Perfumed rice cooked with herbs and spices enhances any meal while being light enough not to overpower the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the washing step – Always wash your spinach and strawberries thoroughly. This removes any dirt or pesticides that could affect the freshness.
• Using stale nuts – Ensure your pecans are fresh and crunchy. Stale nuts can ruin the texture of your salad. Store them properly to maintain their quality.
• Not balancing flavors – A good salad needs a balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors. Adjust the honey and mustard in the dressing to suit your taste.
• Overdressing the salad – Be careful not to drown your greens in dressing. Start with a little and add more if needed to avoid sogginess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store any leftover Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• item Keep the dressing separate if possible, to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

• item It is not recommended to freeze this salad as it can change the texture of the spinach and strawberries when thawed.

Reheating Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes. This is best for salads that contain cooked ingredients.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power in short bursts of 15 seconds until just warm; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop – Place in a pan on low heat, stirring gently until warmed through, if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans.

How can I customize my Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?

You can add other fruits like blueberries or apples for variety. Consider adding protein such as grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.

Can I use other greens instead of spinach?

Absolutely! You can substitute spinach with baby kale or arugula, depending on your preference.

How do I make this salad vegan-friendly?

To make a vegan version of Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative and replace honey with maple syrup.

What type of cheese works best in this salad?

Feta cheese is commonly used but goat cheese also adds a nice touch. Choose based on your flavor preference!

Final Thoughts

The Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is not only tasty but also versatile. You can easily adapt it based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. Whether you serve it at a dinner party or enjoy it for lunch, this salad is sure to impress! Don’t hesitate to try different toppings or dressings for a unique twist every time.

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Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 4 people 1x

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Description

Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is a vibrant and nutritious dish that beautifully balances fresh flavors and textures. This refreshing salad features dark leafy greens, juicy strawberries, and crunchy candied pecans tossed in a homemade balsamic dressing, making it an ideal choice for summer picnics or healthy lunches. With its quick preparation time of just 15 minutes, you can whip up this delightful salad any day of the week. It’s not only visually appealing but also packed with vitamins and minerals, ensuring every bite is both delicious and nourishing.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5 oz spinach (or baby kale)
• 1 lb strawberries (hulled and sliced)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled) or goat cheese
• 1/4 cup candied pecans
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze or vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey (raw)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, and crumbled cheese.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the balsamic glaze (or vinegar), olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
4. Garnish with candied pecans for added crunch and flavor. Serve immediately for the best taste!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups (150g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 230mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 12mg