Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Gorgeous summer strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is the ultimate dish to enjoy on warm days. This vibrant salad combines fresh strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy nuts, all drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch, it’s not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing & Light: This salad is perfect for hot days when you want something cool and satisfying.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious dish ready in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorite nuts or fruits.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with vitamins from spinach and strawberries, it’s a healthy choice.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a casual lunch, this salad fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing the Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic a breeze. Here are some essentials you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar or small bowl
• Medium skillet
• Large mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar or small bowl: Ideal for mixing the dressing thoroughly without spills.
• Medium skillet: Perfect for toasting almonds to enhance their flavor.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to combine all ingredients easily.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 package (5 ounces) organic spinach
• 8 ounces strawberries, halved (about 2 cups halved strawberries)
• 1 large avocado, sliced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup feta crumbles
• ⅓ cup raw sliced almonds
• ¼ cup chopped shelled roasted pistachios

For the Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette

• 3 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, grated or finely minced
• ½ teaspoon dijon mustard
• ½ tablespoon strawberry jam (or jam of choice)
• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a mason jar or small bowl, add all of the dressing ingredients. Shake or mix well to combine. Taste and adjust with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

Toast the almonds on the stovetop by adding them to a pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally for 2–5 minutes until they are slightly golden brown. Remove from heat and allow them to cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, add spinach as your base layer. Next, layer on the halved strawberries, sliced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, feta crumbles, toasted almonds, and chopped pistachios.

Step 4: Serve

You can add dressing now or serve it separately for individual portions. Top each serving with extra toasted almonds and drizzle each bowl with about ¼ of the dressing. Enjoy this refreshing Strawberry Spinach Salad!

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. This vibrant salad is not only perfect for lunch but also makes an excellent side dish for any gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

Individual Bowls

• Serve in individual bowls for a personalized touch. This allows each guest to enjoy their own portion, making it perfect for gatherings or picnics.

Family Style

• Present the salad in a large bowl at the center of the table. Guests can serve themselves, making it easy to share and enjoy together.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this salad with grilled meats or fish. The sweetness of strawberries complements savory flavors well, enhancing your main course.

With Grilled Chicken

• Add sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad for a heartier meal. This transforms the salad into a complete dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

On Toast

• Serve the salad on toasted whole-grain bread or crostini. This adds a crunchy texture and makes for an excellent appetizer at parties.

How to Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

To ensure your Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe strawberries enhance the flavor and texture of your salad.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add more strawberry jam to your vinaigrette according to taste.
• Toast nuts carefully: Keep an eye on toasted almonds; they can burn quickly. Stir them frequently until golden.
• Chill before serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator before serving. This helps meld all flavors together beautifully.
• Add protein: For extra nutrition, consider adding chickpeas or grilled chicken to make it more filling.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like walnuts or goat cheese for added variety and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

This Strawberry Spinach Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs complement the sweet tanginess of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf adds a nutty flavor that balances well with the freshness of the salad.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn roasted or boiled is a simple yet delicious side that pairs nicely.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a colorful pairing that shares similar fresh elements.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring warmth and depth to your meal alongside this refreshing salad.
6. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread offers a satisfying contrast to the lightness of the spinach and strawberries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Using stale ingredients: Freshness is crucial for this salad. Always choose ripe strawberries and crisp spinach for the best flavor and texture.

• Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can make your salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed, allowing each ingredient’s flavor to shine.

• Neglecting to toast nuts: Toasted almonds add a wonderful crunch and depth of flavor. Skipping this step means missing out on an essential taste element.

• Not balancing flavors: The sweetness of strawberries needs balance with tangy dressing and creamy feta. Be sure to taste as you go, adjusting ingredients for harmony.

• Preparing too far in advance: This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If made too early, the spinach can wilt, and the flavors may blend excessively. Aim to prepare it close to serving time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store leftover salad in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Container: Use an airtight container to keep the ingredients fresh.
• Separation: If possible, keep the dressing separate until ready to eat for optimal freshness.

Freezing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Not recommended: Freezing this salad is not ideal due to the texture changes in spinach and strawberries once thawed.
• Alternative storage: Instead of freezing, consider preparing just what you’ll eat or making the dressing separately for future use.

Reheating Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the salad in a covered dish for about 10 minutes.

• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (15-20 seconds) until just warmed, being cautious not to overheat.

• Stovetop: Sauté gently on low heat until warmed through, stirring frequently for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a strawberry spinach salad?

A strawberry spinach salad features fresh spinach leaves topped with ripe strawberries, nuts, avocado, feta cheese, and often dressed with a vinaigrette that enhances its flavors.

How do I make strawberry balsamic vinaigrette?

To make strawberry balsamic vinaigrette, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, strawberry jam, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk until well mixed.

Can I customize my strawberry spinach salad?

Absolutely! You can add other fruits like blueberries or nuts such as walnuts or pecans. Feel free to adjust ingredients based on your taste preferences.

How long does the strawberry spinach salad last?

The salad lasts about 2 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Final Thoughts

This strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. Its sweet and tangy profile makes it perfect for lunch or as a side dish at dinner. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients! Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and dressings!