Spinach Salad with Strawberries & Feta
This vibrant Spinach Salad with Strawberries & Feta is a refreshing and light dish, combining the sweetness of fresh berries with the salty tang of feta cheese and crunchy nuts, all tossed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick lunch or a delightful side.
For 2 servings
Prepare the Greens: Wash and thoroughly dry the baby spinach. Place it in a large salad bowl.
Prepare the Fruit: Rinse the strawberries, hull them, and slice them thinly. Add the sliced strawberries to the bowl with the spinach.
Add Cheese and Nuts: Crumble the feta cheese over the spinach and strawberries. If using untoasted nuts, lightly toast the walnuts or pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then let cool slightly before adding to the salad.
Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
Assemble and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
Enjoy: Serve immediately as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Dry Your Greens: Ensure spinach is completely dry after washing to prevent a watery dressing and ensure it adheres well to the leaves. A salad spinner is ideal.
- 2Toast Nuts for Flavor: Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and crunch significantly. Watch them closely as they can burn quickly.
- 3Dress Just Before Serving: To prevent the spinach from wilting and keep the salad fresh and crisp, always add the dressing right before you plan to eat.
- 4Quality Ingredients: The simplicity of this salad means the quality of each ingredient shines through. Opt for fresh, ripe strawberries and good quality balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or a handful of cooked quinoa for a more substantial meal.
Cheese SwapCheese Swap
Substitute crumbled goat cheese for feta for a creamier, tangier profile, or try a mild blue cheese for a bolder flavor.
Nut & Fruit AlternativesNut & Fruit Alternatives
Experiment with candied pecans, slivered almonds, or add other berries like blueberries or raspberries for varied sweetness and antioxidants.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Strawberries are packed with Vitamin C and other antioxidants, supporting immune health and fighting free radicals.
Bone Health Support
Spinach is an excellent source of Vitamin K, crucial for bone density and blood clotting.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
It's best to assemble and dress this salad just before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting. You can prep ingredients (wash spinach, slice strawberries, make dressing) and store them separately.
