Irresistible Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta Delight

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by Vanessa

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When you think of a salad, what comes to mind? A bunch of sad greens staring back at you from a bowl? Well, hold onto your forks because this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta is about to change your salad game forever. Imagine fresh, vibrant spinach leaves dancing with juicy strawberries, all topped with crumbled feta that adds a delightful tang. Balsamic Strawberry Caprese salad The aroma of balsamic dressing wafts through the air, creating an irresistible invitation to dive in. This isn’t just any salad; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen.

Jump to:

Now let me take you down memory lane. There I was at a summer picnic, surrounded by friends and laughter, when someone magically revealed this sensational salad. It was love at first bite! The combination of sweet berries and savory cheese brought the whole gathering together like the best kind of group hug. Ideal for summer barbecues or a light lunch on a sunny afternoon, this dish promises not just nourishment but also an experience that’ll have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta combines refreshing flavors that are perfect for any occasion.
  • It’s quick to whip up, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
  • The vibrant colors make it a showstopper on any table, ideal for impressing guests or simply treating yourself.
  • Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily add nuts or grilled chicken for extra protein!

Ingredients for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Fresh Spinach: Use tender baby spinach for a mild flavor and vibrant color that forms the base of this salad.
  • Strawberries: Opt for ripe strawberries that are bright red; they should smell sweet and feel slightly soft to the touch.
  • Feta Cheese: Crumble fresh feta atop your salad; it adds creaminess and a salty punch that balances sweetness perfectly.
  • Walnuts (optional): These add crunch and depth; toast them lightly for extra flavor if you like.
  • Balsamic Vinegar: A drizzle will enhance the flavors while adding tangy sweetness; look for high-quality varieties if possible.
  • Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and health benefits; it’s perfect for dressing your salad.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly under cold water, then spin them dry in a salad spinner. Slice the strawberries into quarters or halves depending on your preferences.

Step 2: Assemble the Base

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the fresh spinach and sliced strawberries until well combined. Feel free to get in there with your hands—just wash them first!

Step 3: Add Some Crunch

If you’re using walnuts, roughly chop them and sprinkle them over the salad mix. Their nutty flavor enhances both texture and taste.

Step 4: Crumble Feta like a Pro

Sprinkle crumbled feta generously over the top of your colorful creation. Try not to eat too much before serving—it’s hard but worth it!

Step 5: Dress It Up

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar until they’re combined into a luscious vinaigrette. Drizzle it over your salad just before serving.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

Gently toss everything together until coated in dressing—be careful not to bruise those delicate strawberries! Transfer to plates or serve family-style in the mixing bowl.

Transfer to plates and enjoy every bite of this delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta that’s bursting with freshness!

You Must Know

  • This delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also a feast for the eyes.
  • It’s a breeze to whip up and can be tailored to suit your pantry’s whims, making it perfect for any occasion.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by washing the spinach and slicing the strawberries first. Assemble your salad bowl while preparing the dressing by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Add feta just before serving for its creamy goodness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to jazz up your Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta by adding nuts like walnuts or almonds for crunch or swapping out feta for goat cheese if you prefer. Hot Honey Feta Chicken Toss in some sliced avocado or grilled chicken for added protein.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it again to maintain freshness and crispness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For the best flavor, let your salad rest for a few minutes after dressing it; this allows all the ingredients to mingle beautifully.
  • Use fresh, ripe strawberries as they elevate the dish’s sweetness.
  • Lastly, don’t skimp on seasoning; a pinch of salt enhances everything!

Sharing my first attempt at this salad brings back fond memories. A friend raved about how it brightened her lunch and even asked for seconds, which made my heart do a little happy dance!

FAQs :

What are the main ingredients in Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta?

The main ingredients in a Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta include fresh spinach, ripe strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and a dressing made from olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Additional options may include nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. You can also incorporate sliced onions or other seasonal fruits to enhance flavor and texture. This salad is not only vibrant but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal or side dish. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin recipe.

How can I make the dressing for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta?

To prepare the dressing for your Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta, combine three tablespoons of olive oil with one tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. Add a teaspoon of honey for sweetness and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Whisk all the ingredients together until emulsified. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of plain yogurt or a splash of fruit juice. This simple yet flavorful dressing enhances the salad’s overall taste without overpowering its fresh ingredients. For more inspiration, check out this Blood Orange Salad recipe.

Can I make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta ahead of time, but it’s best to keep certain components separate until serving. To maintain freshness, store the spinach, strawberries, and feta cheese in airtight containers in the refrigerator. You can mix the dressing separately and add it just before serving. This method ensures that the salad remains crisp and flavorful. If you plan to serve leftovers, consider adding fresh spinach and strawberries again for optimal taste.

Is Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare individual servings by layering spinach at the bottom of your container followed by strawberries and feta on top. Keep your dressing in a small container to prevent wilting. This salad stays fresh for up to three days when stored properly in the refrigerator. It makes an excellent lunch option that is not only delicious but also nutritious, helping you stay energized throughout your day.

Conclusion for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta :

In summary, the Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients that offers both taste and nutrition. With its vibrant colors and flavors, this salad makes an excellent choice for any occasion. The combination of spinach and strawberries provides essential vitamins while feta adds creaminess to each bite. Seafood Pasta Salad Preparing the salad ahead of time allows for easy meal planning without sacrificing freshness. Enjoy this refreshing dish as a light lunch or a perfect side at dinner gatherings!

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Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta


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  • Author: Vanessa
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta is a vibrant, refreshing dish that transforms any meal into a celebration of flavors. Featuring tender baby spinach, succulent strawberries, and creamy feta cheese, this salad offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory. Drizzled with tangy balsamic vinaigrette, it’s perfect for summer picnics or as a nutritious side. Quick to prepare in under 30 minutes, this colorful salad not only nourishes but also impresses family and guests alike.


Ingredients

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  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 cup ripe strawberries, sliced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup walnuts (optional), toasted
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly and slice the strawberries.
  2. In a large bowl, combine spinach and strawberries.
  3. If using walnuts, chop them and sprinkle on top.
  4. Crumble feta cheese over the salad.
  5. Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl; drizzle over the salad just before serving.
  6. Toss gently to combine without bruising the strawberries.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

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