Strawberry Spinach Salad
A vibrant and refreshing salad featuring the delightful combination of sweet strawberries, tender baby spinach, tangy feta, and crunchy toasted almonds, all brought together with a homemade balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or a bright side dish.
For 4 servings
**Toast Almonds:** Preheat a small dry skillet over medium-low heat. Add the slivered almonds and toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and set aside to cool completely.
**Prepare Strawberries:** Gently wash the strawberries under cold water. Hull them by removing the green tops, then slice them into bite-sized pieces.
**Make Vinaigrette:** In a small bowl or jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously or shake the jar until the dressing is well emulsified and creamy.
**Assemble Salad Base:** In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese.
**Dress and Toss:** Just before serving, pour about half of the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Add more dressing if desired, but avoid over-dressing.
**Garnish and Serve:** Divide the salad among serving plates. Sprinkle the cooled toasted slivered almonds over each portion. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Dress Just Before Serving:** To prevent the spinach from wilting and becoming soggy, always add the dressing right before you plan to eat the salad. This keeps the greens crisp and fresh.
- 2**Toast Nuts Properly:** Keep a close eye on the almonds while toasting as they can burn quickly. Low to medium heat and frequent stirring are key for an even, golden toast and maximum flavor.
- 3**Customize Your Dressing:** Feel free to adjust the sweetness or tartness of the vinaigrette to your preference. Add more honey for sweetness or a splash more vinegar for tang. A pinch of garlic powder can also be a nice addition.
- 4**Wash Greens Thoroughly:** Ensure your spinach is completely dry after washing (using a salad spinner is ideal) to prevent the dressing from becoming diluted and to help it adhere better to the leaves.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add grilled chicken breast, pan-seared shrimp, or a handful of cooked quinoa for a more substantial meal, transforming it into a complete main course.
Cheese SwapCheese Swap
Substitute feta with creamy goat cheese for a milder tang, or use crumbled blue cheese for a bolder, more pungent flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with strawberries.
Nut & Seed MedleyNut & Seed Medley
Replace almonds with toasted pecans, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds for different textures and nutritional profiles. A sprinkle of chia seeds can also add a healthy crunch.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Strawberries are packed with Vitamin C and other antioxidants, while spinach provides Vitamin A and K, all contributing to cellular health, reducing inflammation, and protecting against disease.
Supports Heart Health
The healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil and almonds, combined with the potassium in spinach and strawberries, help maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, promoting cardiovascular wellness.
Digestive Wellness
High fiber content from spinach and strawberries aids in healthy digestion, promotes regularity, and contributes to a feeling of fullness, which can support weight management.
Frequently asked questions
You can prepare all the components (toast almonds, slice strawberries, make dressing) and store them separately. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving for the best freshness and texture.
