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Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans Recipe

Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans Recipe

4.8 from 29 reviews

A fresh and vibrant Spinach Strawberry Salad with toasted pecans, creamy feta, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. This quick and easy salad combines sweet strawberries with nutty pecans and crisp baby spinach, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 6 cups baby spinach
  • 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the greens and fruit: Wash and dry the baby spinach and strawberries thoroughly to remove any dirt or moisture, which helps the salad stay crisp.
  2. Slice strawberries: Slice the strawberries just before assembling the salad to maintain their freshness and prevent them from becoming mushy.
  3. Toast pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for 2–3 minutes, stirring often until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
  4. Assemble salad: In a large bowl, layer the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and toasted pecans evenly.
  5. Add feta cheese: Sprinkle the optional feta cheese over the salad for a creamy and tangy flavor contrast.
  6. Toss with dressing: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine all ingredients without crushing the berries or wilt the spinach too much.
  7. Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
  • Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best sweetness and juiciness.
  • To make your own vinaigrette, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, a touch of honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  • This salad is best served immediately after dressing to prevent sogginess.
  • Feta cheese is optional and can be omitted to keep the salad vegan.

Nutrition

Keywords: Spinach strawberry salad, pecan salad, fresh berry salad, balsamic vinaigrette salad, healthy salad recipe