Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

If you’re looking for a delightful salad that brings together the best of both worlds—green goodness and fruity freshness—look no further than this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans. This recipe is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and colors that can brighten even the busiest weeknight dinners or elevate your family gatherings. The combination of tender spinach, juicy strawberries, and crunchy pecans will have everyone asking for seconds!

What makes this salad special is its versatility. You can whip it up in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for those days when you’re short on time but still want something nourishing. Plus, it’s packed with ingredients that not only taste good but are also good for you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the sweetness of strawberries paired with the crunch of pecans—it’s a hit at any meal!
• Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy fresh salads throughout the week without any hassle.
• Versatile ingredients: Use what you have on hand! Swap out cheese or nuts based on your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This salad uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Each item contributes to a delicious blend that will tantalize your taste buds.

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)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
• Change up the greens: Try arugula or mixed salad greens instead of spinach for a different flavor profile.
• Make it sweeter: Add in some diced apples or dried cranberries for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Spice things up: Include some sliced red onion or jalapeños for a hint of spice.

How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Step 1: Prepare the Greens and Fruits

Start by gathering all your fresh ingredients. Combine the lovely spinach (or baby kale), sliced strawberries, and crumbled cheese in a large bowl. This mixture forms the heart of your salad, balancing healthy greens with sweet fruit.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This dressing is where all the magic happens—it adds layers of flavor that tie everything together beautifully.

Step 3: Toss It All Together

Pour the dressing over your salad mix and give everything a good toss until all elements are evenly coated. This step ensures every bite is bursting with flavor!

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

For that delightful crunch and added flavor, garnish your salad with candied pecans. And voila! Your tasty and healthy Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is ready to be served and enjoyed by all!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Creating the perfect Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is easier than you might think! Here are some tips to elevate your salad game:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe strawberries make all the difference in flavor. Look for vibrant greens and juicy, fragrant strawberries to ensure your salad bursts with freshness.

• Toast Your Pecans: Lightly toasting pecans enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch. Just a few minutes in a dry skillet over medium heat will do the trick!

• Make Ahead of Time: If you’re preparing this salad for a gathering, consider making the dressing ahead of time. This allows flavors to meld beautifully, making your salad even more delicious when served.

• Experiment with Cheese: While feta and goat cheese add creaminess, don’t hesitate to try other options like vegan cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer. Choose one that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.

• Adjust Sweetness: The level of sweetness can be customized by adjusting the amount of honey in your dressing. Taste as you go and find that perfect balance that suits your palate!

How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Presenting your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to impress your guests or family.

Garnishes

• Edible Flowers: Adding a few edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies can create a stunning visual appeal while keeping things fresh and tasty.
• Extra Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze on top not only looks beautiful but also enhances the sweet and tangy flavors of the salad.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken: Lightly seasoned grilled chicken breast offers a protein-packed addition that pairs wonderfully with the refreshing salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf with herbs makes for a hearty side dish that complements the flavors without overwhelming them.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables seasoned with olive oil and herbs provide a warm contrast to the cool, crisp salad.
• Whole Wheat Bread: Serve slices of whole wheat bread or rolls on the side for those who want something extra to munch on, making it a complete meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to enjoy your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans in style! Happy eating!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is a fantastic choice for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy fresh flavors throughout the week. You can prepare components of the salad ahead of time, keeping your meals quick and nutritious!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the greens from wilting.
• Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Unfortunately, this salad does not freeze well due to the texture of spinach and strawberries once thawed.
• It’s best enjoyed fresh, so only prepare what you can eat within a few days.

Reheating

• This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary.
• If you prefer a warm salad, lightly sauté the spinach before adding it to your other ingredients.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other types of greens in the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?

Absolutely! While spinach is delicious, you can substitute it with baby kale or mixed salad greens for a different twist. Each will provide its unique flavor and texture.

How can I make my Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans vegan?

To make this dish vegan-friendly, simply omit the cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. Nutritional yeast can also offer a cheesy flavor without dairy.

What dressing works best for Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?

The balsamic vinaigrette provided in this recipe complements the sweetness of strawberries and the nuttiness of pecans perfectly. However, feel free to experiment with other dressings like lemon vinaigrette or a honey mustard dressing if you’d like!

How long does it take to prepare the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?

This refreshing salad comes together quickly; you’ll need just about 15 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for when you’re short on time!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this vibrant Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans! It’s not only beautiful but also packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a side dish or your main event, this salad is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and share it with your loved ones—I can’t wait for you to try it!