Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is a delightful dish that perfectly combines vibrant flavors and textures. This salad is not only visually appealing but also versatile, making it suitable for various occasions—from casual lunches to elegant dinner parties. The balance of fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, creamy cheese, and crunchy pecans topped with a zesty balsamic dressing creates a refreshing experience in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this salad comes together in no time.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet strawberries and tangy cheese elevates your taste buds.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this salad is a great addition to any meal.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or main dish; add grilled chicken or turkey for extra protein.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful ingredients make it an attractive centerpiece on your table.
Tools and Preparation
Creating the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans requires minimal equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients evenly without making a mess.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency when mixing the dressing, ensuring all flavors blend well.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing strawberries quick and easy, preventing bruising of the fruit.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients while keeping your counters clean.
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)
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. Gently toss them together to distribute evenly.
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 dressing adds a rich flavor that complements the salad beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything gently until all ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing.
Step 4: Add Crunchy Pecans
Finally, garnish your salad with candied pecans on top for added flavor and crunch. Your delicious Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is now ready to be served! Enjoy it fresh for the best taste.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
This delightful Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is not only visually appealing but also versatile in terms of serving options. Here are some creative ways to serve it that will elevate your dining experience.
As a Light Lunch
- Pair it with whole grain bread or a wrap for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch.
As a Side Dish
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or turkey to complement the fresh flavors of the salad.
In a Picnic Basket
- Pack it into portable containers for an easy and refreshing picnic option. The vibrant colors make it an inviting addition!
For Special Occasions
- Present it on a large platter during gatherings. Garnish with extra strawberries and pecans for an elegant touch.
How to Perfect Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
To enhance your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans, consider these simple tips. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture in every bite.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and strawberries make all the difference in taste and nutrition.
- Make the dressing ahead: Prepare the balsamic dressing in advance and store it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add protein: Incorporate grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein, making it more filling.
- Experiment with cheese: Try different types of cheese, like goat cheese or blue cheese, to see what you prefer.
- Include seasonal fruits: Mix in seasonal fruits like blueberries or raspberries for added variety and nutrition.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate your salad for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors blend even more!
Best Side Dishes for Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
This salad pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some delicious options that complement its fresh flavors.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken marinated in herbs, grilled until juicy, makes a great protein boost.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish cooked with vegetables adds texture and nuttiness to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and depth, balancing the freshness of the salad.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice and beans provide a hearty side that’s also visually appealing.
- Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread offers a crunchy element that pairs nicely with the soft textures in the salad.
- Fruit Platter: A mix of seasonal fruits can serve as a refreshing contrast to the savory elements of your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Creating the perfect Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans can be a delightful experience, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.
- Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or old spinach and strawberries can ruin the salad’s flavor. Always select fresh, vibrant produce for the best taste.
- Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can make your salad soggy. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you reach your desired flavor.
- Not Balancing Flavors: Failing to incorporate both sweet and savory elements can leave the salad flat. Ensure you have a mix of flavors, like the sweetness of strawberries and the saltiness of feta or goat cheese.
- Ignoring Texture: A good salad has varied textures. Don’t forget to add crunch with pecans or other nuts; they enhance the overall eating experience.
- Using Low-Quality Olive Oil: The quality of olive oil affects your dressing’s taste significantly. Opt for extra virgin olive oil for a rich flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.
Freezing Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
- It is not recommended to freeze this salad as it will compromise texture and flavor.
- Fresh ingredients do not thaw well and may become mushy.
Reheating Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
- Oven: Not recommended as salads are best served fresh.
- Microwave: Avoid microwaving; it will wilt the greens.
- Stovetop: This dish does not require reheating; enjoy it cold or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans vegan?
You can substitute feta cheese with a plant-based alternative or simply omit it for a delicious vegan version.
Can I use frozen strawberries in my Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?
Fresh strawberries provide better texture and flavor, but if using frozen, ensure they are thawed and drained well before adding them to your salad.
What can I substitute for pecans in this salad?
You can use walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds as alternatives to pecans, depending on your preference.
How long does Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans last in the fridge?
This salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if stored properly in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
The Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavors that complement each other beautifully. It’s versatile enough for any occasion—be it a light lunch or a side dish at dinner. Feel free to customize it by adding different nuts, fruits, or even proteins like grilled chicken for a heartier meal. Give this refreshing recipe a try!
Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the delightful Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans—a vibrant dish that harmonizes fresh flavors and textures. This salad is not only visually stunning but also versatile enough for any occasion, from casual lunches to elegant dinner gatherings. The combination of tender spinach, sweet strawberries, creamy cheese, and crunchy pecans, all drizzled with a zesty balsamic dressing, creates a refreshing experience with every bite. It’s a quick and nutritious option that can be served as a light meal or paired as a side dish to grilled meats.
Ingredients
- 5 oz spinach (or baby kale)
- 1 lb strawberries (sliced)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup candied pecans
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the spinach or baby kale, sliced strawberries, and crumbled cheese. Toss gently to mix.
- In another bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until everything is coated.
- Top with candied pecans before serving for an added crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad (about 200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor. Make the dressing ahead of time to allow flavors to meld. Feel free to add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
