15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and vibrant side dish, you’ve landed in the right place! This 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad has become a staple in my home. It’s packed with fresh flavors and textures that make it not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, this salad fits perfectly into any occasion. The combination of sweet strawberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta cheese creates a delightful harmony that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

This recipe is not just about ease; it’s about bringing joy to your table. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a stunning salad ready to serve. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get started on this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes needed, this salad is perfect for those busy evenings when time is short.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the mix of sweet fruits and crunchy nuts, making it an easy way to add some greens to their diet.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side or even as a light meal on its own—this salad can fit into any menu.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dressing in advance and toss everything together just before serving for maximum freshness.
• Bright and Flavorful: The combination of strawberries and balsamic dressing creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Get ready to enjoy the fresh flavors of summer with these goodies:

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)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients depending on what you have on hand or what flavors you love most.

• Add Grains: Toss in some cooked quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrients.
• Mix Up the Greens: If spinach isn’t your favorite, try using kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.
• Change the Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or sunflower seeds if you prefer something different.
• Include Other Fruits: Add slices of kiwi or mandarin oranges for an extra burst of sweetness.

How to Make 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar). This step is essential because it brings all the flavors together and adds that delicious tangy sweetness. Set this aside while you prepare your salad.

Step 2: Wash and Slice Your Fruits

Grab those beautiful strawberries and blueberries! Rinse them well under cold water. For the strawberries, remove the green tops and slice them into thin pieces. This step ensures each bite has bursting fruit flavor!

Step 3: Toast the Pecans

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast your pecans until they are fragrant (about 5 minutes). Stir frequently to prevent burning. Toasting enhances their nuttiness and adds a lovely crunch that elevates your salad.

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, blueberries, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted pecans. Drizzle your homemade dressing over everything. Toss gently to combine but be careful not to crush the fruits—each piece should shine!

Step 5: Serve Immediately

This salad is best enjoyed fresh! Serve it right away so everyone can savor the vibrant colors and flavors. It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

And there you have it—a delightful 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad that’s as easy as it is tasty! Enjoy sharing this recipe with friends and family; I know they’ll love it just as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Making a fresh and delicious salad is easier than you think with just a few helpful tips!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe strawberries will provide the best flavors and textures. The quality of your ingredients can make all the difference in enhancing the overall taste of your salad.
• Toast the Pecans: Lightly toasting pecans brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor. Just a few minutes in a dry pan over medium heat can transform them from ordinary to extraordinary.
• Make Ahead the Dressing: For an even quicker assembly, prepare your balsamic dressing in advance. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making your salad extra tasty when it’s time to serve.
• Customize with Other Fruits: Feel free to swap out or add other fruits like raspberries or mandarin oranges. This not only adds variety but also introduces different flavors that can complement the spinach and feta wonderfully.
• Serve Immediately: To keep the salad crisp and fresh, serve it right after assembling. If you need to make it ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Presenting your Strawberry Spinach Salad beautifully can make mealtime feel even more special. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Mint: A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves adds a refreshing twist that complements the sweetness of strawberries beautifully.
• Additional Feta Crumbles: A few extra crumbles of feta cheese on top not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the creamy texture in each bite.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy grilled chicken breast pairs wonderfully with this salad, adding a protein boost while keeping the meal light and healthy.
• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs makes for a hearty side dish that complements the freshness of your salad without overshadowing it.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables drizzled with olive oil offer warmth and depth, creating a perfect contrast to the coolness of the salad.
• Whole Wheat Breadsticks: Crunchy whole wheat breadsticks provide an excellent crunchy element that can be dipped into any leftover dressing, making for a delightful addition to your meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll create not just a meal but a memorable dining experience that everyone will love! Enjoy your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad!

Make Ahead and Storage

This 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep the salad and dressing separate to maintain freshness.
• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If possible, avoid adding nuts until you’re ready to serve to keep them crunchy.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the fresh ingredients, particularly spinach and strawberries, which do not maintain their texture when thawed.

Reheating

• Since this salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, simply take it out of the fridge when you’re ready to eat.
• If necessary, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad that might help you out!

Can I make this 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving for optimal freshness.

What can I substitute for feta cheese in the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu or a plant-based feta alternative. Both options will add creaminess without compromising flavor.

How long does the dressing last if I make extra?

Homemade balsamic dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, making it great for future salads!

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad a try! It’s not only quick and easy but also packed with vibrant flavors that will brighten up any meal. Enjoy making this delightful dish, and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!