Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans Recipe

If you love a salad that bursts with freshness, crunch, and a delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavors, you are going to adore this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans. It’s a vibrant combination of tender baby spinach leaves, juicy strawberries, and crunchy toasted pecans that work together to create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a refreshing side, or a stunning dish to share at your next gathering, this salad hits all the right notes with just a handful of simple ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is chosen for its role in delivering the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color. Each component is simple yet essential, and together they create a salad that’s fresh, crunchy, and packed with flavor.

• 6 cups baby spinach: Tender and vibrant, baby spinach provides a fresh, nutrient-rich base with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
• 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: Adds sweetness and juicy bursts that contrast beautifully with the greens.
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans: These provide a satisfying crunch and a rich, nutty depth that elevates the salad.
• 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional): A touch of creamy, salty feta adds complexity and balances the sweetness.
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette: The tangy and slightly sweet dressing ties everything together, enhancing each ingredient.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring out the flavors and add just the right finishing touch.

How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Step 1: Prepare Your Fresh Ingredients

Start by washing and drying the baby spinach and strawberries thoroughly. This step is crucial for ensuring your salad is clean and crisp. Slice the strawberries just before assembling to keep them juicy and fresh.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

Place pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring often for 2 to 3 minutes. Toasting the nuts brings out their natural oils and intensifies their flavor, adding a wonderful crunch to the salad.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad Layers

In a large bowl, layer the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and toasted pecans. If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top for a creamy contrast.

Step 4: Dress and Toss

Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and gently toss everything together to coat the leaves, fruit, and nuts without bruising the spinach or strawberries.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finally, add salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh textures and vibrant flavors at their best.

How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Garnishes

Consider adding fresh herbs like mint or basil for an extra pop of freshness. A few thin slices of red onion or a sprinkle of chia seeds can also elevate the presentation and add unique flavors and textures.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, salmon, or a light pasta dish. It’s a fresh and flavorful complement that can brighten up any meal, especially during the warmer months.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans in clear glass bowls or mason jars to showcase its beautiful colors. For gatherings, consider making individual salad cups, layering the ingredients so everyone can see the tempting mix before tossing it all together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing separate if possible, to prevent the spinach from wilting. The salad should stay fresh for up to 2 days.

Freezing

Because this salad relies on fresh leafy greens and fruit, freezing is not recommended. The texture and flavor of the spinach and strawberries will not hold up well.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and cold. If you’d like, pair the leftover salad with a warm entrée, but avoid reheating the salad itself to maintain its crispness and freshness.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes and provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor that works well with the spinach and strawberries.

Is feta cheese necessary for this salad?

Feta is optional but highly recommended if you enjoy a creamy, salty contrast to the sweet strawberries and tangy vinaigrette. You can leave it out if you prefer a dairy-free version.

How long does this salad keep its freshness?

For the best texture and flavor, enjoy the salad the day it’s made. If refrigerated, it will stay fresh for up to 2 days, especially if you store the dressing separately.

Can I substitute the balsamic vinaigrette?

Yes, a simple lemon vinaigrette or honey mustard dressing can also complement the ingredients nicely, but balsamic vinaigrette offers that perfect balance of sweet and tangy for this recipe.

What’s the best way to toast pecans?

Toasting pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat while stirring frequently prevents burning and helps release their oils, enhancing flavor and crunch in just a few minutes.

Final Thoughts

This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is truly one of those dishes that feels like a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients coming together effortlessly. It’s simple, healthy, and undeniably delicious—perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ve got to give it a try and discover how such a straightforward salad can become an absolute favorite in your recipe collection.

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