Nothing brightens a summer table like an explosion of fresh flavors and vibrant colors dancing together in perfect harmony. This Strawberry Spinach Salad is one of those recipes that feels like sunshine on a plate—each bite delivers tender baby spinach leaves that practically melt in your mouth alongside juicy, ruby-red strawberries that burst with sweetness. The crunch of toasted almonds and the creamy tang of feta cheese add contrasting textures that keep your taste buds guessing, while thin slices of red onion offer a gentle zing. Coated in a silky honey-balsamic dressing, this salad becomes a refreshing symphony of tastes—from sweet and tangy to nutty and savory—that you’ll crave all season long. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or craving a light yet satisfying weekend lunch, this dish proves that healthy doesn’t have to mean boring.
Beyond just its pretty appearance, this salad is remarkably easy to pull together—perfect for beginners who want maximum impact with minimal effort. There’s no cooking required, so you can have it on the table in about 15 minutes flat. Plus, at just 250 calories per serving, it’s guilt-free and energizing. As an appetizer or even a standalone lunch, it checks all the boxes: bright, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Feel free to switch up the cheese or add grilled chicken for a heartier option. Once you get the hang of whisking together a quick honey-balsamic vinaigrette, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. It’s one of those dishes that not only satisfies your appetite but also elevates any gathering—easy enough for a weekday pick-me-up, yet elegant enough to impress guests who expect something special.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN STRAWBERRY SPINACH SALAD
Before diving into the step-by-step, let’s get familiar with the star players that make this salad shine. Each ingredient brings its own unique flair, contributing to the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
- Fresh baby spinach
These tender, young leaves serve as the crisp, green foundation of the salad. Their mild flavor allows the sweeter and tangier elements to shine, and they provide a nutrient-packed base rich in iron and vitamins.
- Strawberries
Sliced to reveal their juicy, ruby-red interiors, strawberries add a burst of natural sweetness and vibrant color. They contrast beautifully with the greens and elevate the salad from ordinary to extraordinary.
- Slivered almonds
These thin, crunchy nut slivers introduce a toasty texture and subtle nuttiness. They bring a delightful crispness that complements the softer components.
- Crumbled feta cheese
This crumbly, tangy cheese adds a creamy depth that balances the sweetness of the fruit. Each bite of salty feta accentuates the strawberries’ sweetness and enriches the overall flavor profile.
- Red onion
Thinly sliced, the red onion provides a mild sharpness and fresh bite. Its purple hue lends a pop of color, while its subtle heat ties together the sweet and savory notes.
- Balsamic vinegar
With its characteristic sweet-tart tang, balsamic vinegar forms the acidic backbone of the dressing. It brightens the salad and harmonizes the ingredients.
- Honey
A drizzle of honey adds silky sweetness to the vinaigrette, rounding out the sharpness of the vinegar and mustard for a well-balanced dressing.
- Dijon mustard
This smooth, tangy mustard helps emulsify the dressing and adds depth. It also provides a gentle kick that elevates every component.
- Olive oil
High-quality olive oil lends a fruity, smooth richness to the dressing, ensuring it coats every leaf and slice without weighing the salad down.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Simple seasonings like salt and pepper enhance all the flavors in the salad, bringing harmony and highlighting each ingredient’s true character.
HOW TO MAKE STRAWBERRY SPINACH SALAD
Let’s walk through the process of turning these wonderful ingredients into a stunning salad. Follow each step carefully to ensure the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
1. In a large salad bowl, combine fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, slivered almonds, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion. Gently lift and mix the ingredients so they are evenly distributed, taking care not to bruise the berries or wilt the spinach.
2. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard until well combined. This initial whisk helps dissolve the honey and mustard into the vinegar, creating a smooth base for the dressing.
3. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create an emulsified dressing. This technique binds the oil and vinegar into a silky, cohesive vinaigrette that clings beautifully to each leaf and slice.
4. Season the dressing with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adding seasoning at this stage ensures that every component of the vinaigrette is perfectly seasoned before it meets the salad.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine until the salad ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Use light, sweeping motions to prevent crushing the spinach and strawberries.
6. Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates, ensuring each serving has a harmonious mix of greens, fruit, nuts, and cheese. Arranging the salad neatly highlights its vibrant colors.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh and delicious strawberry spinach salad. The combination of textures and flavors is best savored right away, while the spinach is crisp and the strawberries firm.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR STRAWBERRY SPINACH SALAD
Once your Strawberry Spinach Salad is assembled, the way you present and pair it can take it from delightful to unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a casual brunch or an elegant dinner, consider these tips to showcase the salad at its best.
Serving this salad alongside grilled proteins or hearty sides can elevate it to a full meal, while careful attention to plating and garnishes will keep it looking as stunning as it tastes. Aim to highlight the contrast between the ruby strawberries and deep green spinach, and don’t shy away from adding a finishing touch of fresh herbs or edible flowers. Thoughtful drink pairings—like a crisp white wine or a sparkling lemonade—can further enhance the dining experience. With just a bit of creativity, this salad becomes a versatile star that fits any occasion, from poolside luncheons to festive holiday spreads.
- Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for an easy, protein-packed entrée. Let the smoky, charred flavors of the grilled protein complement the sweet-tangy notes of the salad.
- Serve on a rustic wooden board or a white ceramic platter to make the vibrant colors pop. Arrange in neat piles or artful clusters to create visual appeal.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or basil chiffonade for an herbal lift. The bright green herbs accentuate the strawberries and add a refreshing aroma.
- Accompany with a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a homemade sparkling lemonade. The acidity in the drink echoes the balsamic tang, balancing the richness of the feta and olive oil.
HOW TO STORE STRAWBERRY SPINACH SALAD
To preserve the fresh flavors and crisp textures of your Strawberry Spinach Salad, a little planning goes a long way. Proper storage keeps the spinach from wilting and prevents the strawberries from becoming soggy. Whether you’re prepping ahead of time or refrigerating leftovers, follow these guidelines to maintain peak freshness.
Storing components separately is key when you’re preparing in advance. The dressing can break down the leaves and fruit over time, so keep it in its own container and combine just before serving. If you’ve already tossed the salad, an airtight container and careful layering will extend its life by preserving textures. Always refrigerate promptly, and avoid stacking too many layers in one container to prevent crushing. When you’re ready to serve again, give it a gentle stir and add any fresh garnishes to revive the flavors.
- Store the dressing separately in a sealed jar or container. Shake well before drizzling to re-emulsify the vinaigrette.
- Keep the undressed salad in an airtight container lined with paper towels. The towels wick away excess moisture, keeping the spinach crisp.
- If you’ve already dressed the salad, layer it in a container with heavier ingredients (like almonds and feta) on the bottom and spinach and strawberries on top. This prevents the delicate leaves from wilting.
- Consume within 24 hours for the best texture and flavor. While still safe to eat beyond that, the strawberries may release juices and the spinach can become limp.
CONCLUSION
This Strawberry Spinach Salad has everything you need for a light, refreshing dish that dazzles the senses and celebrates the flavors of the season. From the tender, nutrient-packed baby spinach leaves to the juicy sweetness of fresh strawberries, the creamy tang of feta, and the crunchy bite of almonds, it’s a symphony of tastes and textures in every forkful. The simple honey-balsamic dressing brings it all together—silky, tangy, and just sweet enough. Best of all, this recipe is beginner-friendly and can be on your table in about 15 minutes, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Whether served as a vibrant appetizer at a backyard barbecue or paired with grilled proteins for a satisfying lunch, it never fails to impress.
Feel free to print out this article and save it in your recipe binder so you’ll have it ready whenever those summer cravings strike. You can also refer to the FAQ below for tips on ingredient substitutions, dressing tweaks, or how to adapt the salad to suit dietary needs. I’d love to hear how your Strawberry Spinach Salad turns out—please leave a comment with your questions, feedback, or any creative twists you tried. Your thoughts and experiences help build a supportive community of home cooks, so don’t hesitate to share. Happy cooking, and here’s to many more vibrant, delicious meals ahead!
Strawberry Spinach Salad
Description
This colorful salad combines tender baby spinach, sweet strawberries, crunchy almonds, and tangy feta, all coated in a silky honey-balsamic dressing for a light yet satisfying bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large salad bowl, combine fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, slivered almonds, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion.
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In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
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Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create an emulsified dressing.
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Season the dressing with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
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Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine until the salad ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
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Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates, ensuring each serving has a good mix of ingredients.
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Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh and delicious strawberry spinach salad.
Note
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a hearty meal.
- Substitute goat cheese for feta for a different flavor profile.
- Toast the almonds for extra crunch and a deeper nutty flavor.
- For a sweeter twist, consider adding some dried cranberries or cherries.
- This salad is best served immediately, as the spinach can wilt and the strawberries may release juices.
