15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Strawberry Spinach Salad is a healthy, vibrant, and easy-to-make recipe that comes together in just 15 minutes! This delightful dish features fresh strawberries, creamy Feta cheese, crunchy pecans, and a simple Balsamic dressing. Perfect for various occasions such as weeknight dinners, picnics, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this salad brings a burst of flavor and color to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad requires only 15 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute events.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of strawberries and spinach offers a refreshing taste that delights the palate.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or add protein to make it a complete meal; it fits perfectly with many cuisines.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh produce, this salad supports a healthy lifestyle.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its beautiful presentation and delicious flavors make it a favorite among friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to toss all the ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps combine the dressing smoothly for even flavor distribution.
• Knife: Essential for slicing strawberries and other ingredients safely and efficiently.

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)

How to Make 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar) until well combined.
2. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and blueberries.
2. Gently toss to mix the fruits with the spinach.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Nuts

1. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad mixture.
2. Add in the toasted pecans, mixing gently to avoid crushing the ingredients.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

1. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad just before serving.
2. Toss lightly to coat all ingredients with dressing evenly.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

1. Serve your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad immediately for optimal freshness! Enjoy this delightful dish as a side or main course!

How to Serve 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

This vibrant 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only quick to prepare but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy it in various ways, making it a perfect addition to any meal or gathering.

As a Standalone Dish

• This salad can be served on its own as a light lunch or dinner. Its fresh ingredients and colorful presentation make it an appealing dish.

Accompanying Grilled Meats

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp for a balanced meal. The sweet strawberries complement the savory flavors beautifully.

At Potlucks and Gatherings

• This salad is an excellent choice for potlucks or parties. It’s easy to make in large quantities and is sure to impress your guests with its refreshing taste.

With Bread or Rolls

• Serve alongside crusty bread or warm rolls. The combination of textures enhances the dining experience and makes for a satisfying meal.

As Part of a Picnic Spread

• Take this salad on your next picnic! It’s portable and stays fresh, making it a delightful option among various picnic foods.

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How to Perfect 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

To elevate your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and ripe strawberries. Freshness boosts flavor and nutritional value.
• Toast the Nuts: Toasting pecans brings out their natural oils and adds a delightful crunch. Just a few minutes in a dry skillet will do!
• Adjust Dressing to Taste: Feel free to tweak the balsamic dressing by adding more honey if you prefer a sweeter taste, or extra vinegar for tang.
• Add Seasonal Fruits: Mix in other seasonal fruits like peaches or apples for variety. This keeps the salad exciting throughout the year.

Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

This strawberry spinach salad pairs well with multiple side dishes that complement its flavors while providing additional variety.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken marinated in herbs adds protein to your meal, making it more filling.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf provides fiber and complements the salad’s sweetness with its earthy flavors.
3. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is always a crowd favorite. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add warmth and depth of flavor, enhancing your overall dining experience.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs wonderfully with this salad, offering rich flavors that contrast nicely with the freshness.
6. Fruit Platter: Keep the fruit theme going by serving assorted seasonal fruits alongside the salad for a refreshing touch.
7. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad can add heartiness without overshadowing the main salad’s delicate flavors.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans create an eye-catching dish that works well with this fresh salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is simple, but there are a few common mistakes you should avoid to ensure the best results.

• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or old spinach can ruin the flavor and texture of your salad. Always choose fresh, vibrant greens for the best taste.
• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can drown out the salad’s fresh flavors. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to suit your taste.
• Skipping Toasting Nuts: Un-toasted pecans can lack flavor. Toast them lightly before adding to enhance their crunchiness and taste.
• Cutting Strawberries Incorrectly: Slicing strawberries too thick can make them hard to eat. Aim for thin, even slices for better texture and presentation.
• Neglecting Seasoning: A pinch of salt can elevate your salad immensely. Don’t forget to season, but do so sparingly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in spinach and strawberries.
• If necessary, separate ingredients and freeze nuts separately.

Reheating 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes. This works well for toasted nuts but may wilt spinach further.
• Microwave: Heat on low for short bursts of time (10-15 seconds) to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Lightly sauté in a pan over low heat until just warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad.

Can I use other fruits in this salad?

Yes! You can substitute blueberries with other berries or fruits like apples or oranges for variety.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

What dressing goes well with this salad?

While balsamic dressing is perfect, you could also use a poppy seed or citrus vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe serves approximately six people, making it great for gatherings or leftovers.

Final Thoughts

The 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only quick to prepare but also offers a burst of flavor and nutrition. It’s perfect as a side dish or main course. Feel free to customize it by adding grilled chicken or swapping nuts and cheese based on your preferences!