Strawberry Spinach Cottage Cheese Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Strawberry Spinach Cottage Cheese Salad is a fresh and protein-packed dish perfect for warm days. The combination of sweet strawberries, tender spinach, and creamy cottage cheese creates a delightful balance of flavors. Adding nuts and a balsamic glaze finish elevates this salad to a satisfying and light meal option.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- ¼ cup pecans or walnuts, toasted and chopped
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for extra tang)
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar + 1 tsp honey)
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Arrange the baby spinach on a serving plate or in a bowl. Spoon the cottage cheese in the center, then scatter the sliced strawberries evenly across the salad.
- Step 2: Sprinkle the toasted pecans or walnuts and crumbled feta cheese (if using) over the salad. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil. Finish with a sprinkle of black pepper and fresh basil.
- Step 3: Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. Enjoy on its own or pair with grilled chicken or salmon for a heartier meal.
Tips & Variations
- For a touch of sweetness, substitute balsamic glaze with a drizzle of honey-balsamic mixture if unable to find glaze.
- Try adding sliced avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
- Use mixed greens in place of baby spinach for a more varied texture.
- To toast nuts evenly, warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Storage
Store leftover salad ingredients separately to maintain freshness—keep the spinach and strawberries refrigerated in airtight containers, and the cottage cheese chilled as well. Assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess. Prepared salad is best enjoyed the same day, but components can be stored up to 2 days. If reheating proteins served alongside, warm gently to preserve texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this salad vegan?
You can substitute cottage cheese and feta with plant-based alternatives like tofu or vegan cheese and use a balsamic glaze without honey for a vegan version.
What can I serve this salad with for a more filling meal?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, salmon, or even quinoa for added protein and heartiness.
PrintStrawberry Spinach Cottage Cheese Salad Recipe
A fresh and protein-packed summer salad featuring sweet strawberries, crisp baby spinach, creamy cottage cheese, and a tangy balsamic glaze, topped with toasted nuts and optional feta for extra flavor. Perfect as a light meal or a side dish, especially when paired with grilled chicken or salmon.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- ¼ cup pecans or walnuts, toasted and chopped
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for extra tang)
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar + 1 tsp honey)
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Assemble the Salad: Arrange the baby spinach on a serving plate or in a bowl. Spoon the cottage cheese in the center. Scatter the sliced strawberries evenly across the salad.
- Add the Crunch & Drizzle: Sprinkle with toasted pecans or walnuts and crumbled feta cheese if using. Drizzle the salad with balsamic glaze and extra virgin olive oil. Finish by sprinkling black pepper and fresh chopped basil on top for added flavor.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve the salad immediately to maintain the best texture and freshness. Enjoy it on its own as a light meal or pair it with grilled chicken or salmon for a more satisfying dish.
Notes
- To toast pecans or walnuts, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently.
- For a homemade balsamic glaze, simmer balsamic vinegar with 1 tsp honey until thickened.
- Feel free to substitute baby spinach with mixed greens or arugula for different flavor profiles.
- Adding grilled chicken or salmon turns this salad into a complete protein-packed meal.
- Optional feta cheese adds a tangy punch but can be omitted to reduce sodium or dairy content.
Keywords: strawberry salad, spinach salad, cottage cheese salad, balsamic salad, healthy salad, summer salad, protein-packed salad
