Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad
Highlighted under: Nutritious & Fresh Meals
I love making this Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad because it brings together fresh, vibrant flavors that brighten any meal. The combination of sweet strawberries, earthy spinach, and tangy balsamic vinegar creates a delightful balance that I can't resist. Each bite is a taste of summer, and I enjoy how easy it is to whip up. Whether serving it as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, this salad always garners compliments. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more greens into my diet without compromising on flavor.
When I first created this salad, I wanted something light yet satisfying, perfect for hot days. I experimented with various dressings, but the balsamic vinegar really tied the flavors together. Its sweetness complements the strawberries beautifully, making the salad both refreshing and indulgent. I remember serving it during a summer barbecue, and it was a massive hit!
Another tip I discovered is to use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor. Slicing them just before serving helps maintain their sweetness and ensures they stay vibrant. Plus, adding sliced almonds gives a beautiful crunch that I always enjoy. This salad is a staple in my kitchen!
Why You'll Love This Salad
- Refreshing combination of strawberries and spinach
- Easy to make and perfect for any occasion
- Versatile – great as a main or side dish
- Healthy and full of vitamins!
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced almonds.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Toss and Serve
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize this salad by adding grilled chicken or quinoa for an extra protein boost.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It's best to prepare the salad just before serving to keep the spinach fresh. You can prepare the ingredients ahead and toss them together right before serving.
→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you're not a fan of feta, goat cheese or even mozzarella can work well as a substitute.
→ Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are naturally gluten-free.
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
It's better to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture, but if you only have frozen, make sure to thaw them properly and drain any excess juice.
Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad
I love making this Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad because it brings together fresh, vibrant flavors that brighten any meal. The combination of sweet strawberries, earthy spinach, and tangy balsamic vinegar creates a delightful balance that I can't resist. Each bite is a taste of summer, and I enjoy how easy it is to whip up. Whether serving it as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, this salad always garners compliments. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more greens into my diet without compromising on flavor.
Created by: Olivia
Recipe Type: Nutritious & Fresh Meals
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced almonds.
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize this salad by adding grilled chicken or quinoa for an extra protein boost.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 5g