15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Strawberry Spinach Salad is a healthy, vibrant, and easy-to-make recipe that comes together in 15 minutes! Featuring feta cheese, pecans, and a simple balsamic dressing, this salad makes a perfect side dish for any weeknight dinner. It is also a crowd-pleaser for many holiday occasions, picnics, potlucks, and other gatherings with friends and family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with fresh strawberries and blueberries, it offers a burst of flavors that delight the palate.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or light main course, this salad fits well with various cuisines and occasions.
• Nutritious: With spinach as the base and healthy fats from pecans, this salad is not only delicious but also good for you!
• Crowd-Pleasing: Its colorful presentation and delightful taste make it a favorite among guests at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To create your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad efficiently, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this refreshing dish with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Whisk
• Salad serving bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure that your dressing has the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
• Whisk: A whisk helps blend your dressing smoothly, preventing clumps and ensuring even distribution over the salad.

Ingredients

For the Dressing

• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)

For the Salad

• 10 oz baby spinach (fresh)
• 3 cups strawberries (cleaned and hulled, sliced)
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1/3 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1 cup pecans (toasted, some chopped)

How to Make 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a mixing bowl, combine balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar).
2. Whisk together until well combined and smooth.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large salad serving bowl, add baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and blueberries.
2. Pour the dressing over the top of the salad ingredients.
3. Gently toss everything together until coated evenly.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Nuts

1. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
2. Add toasted pecans, mixing them in gently to avoid breaking them up too much.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

1. Enjoy your fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad immediately for the best flavor and texture!

How to Serve 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Serving the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful experience that can elevate any meal. This salad’s vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it an ideal accompaniment to various dishes, whether casual or festive.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled chicken for a refreshing contrast to savory meats.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables to add freshness and crunch.

On a Buffet Table

• Include in a potluck spread to impress guests with its bright presentation.
• Offer as a part of a Mediterranean-themed dinner for an authentic touch.

For Lunch

• Pack in a lunchbox with whole-grain crackers for a nutritious meal.
• Add quinoa or chickpeas for extra protein and make it a complete dish.

At Picnics

• Present in individual jars for easy transport and serving.
• Use as a light starter before heavier picnic foods like sandwiches or wraps.

How to Perfect 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

To make your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad even better, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and presentation.

• Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest spinach and strawberries available to maximize taste and nutrition.
• Toast Pecans: Lightly toast pecans before adding them for added flavor and crunch.
• Chill Ingredients: Keep your salad ingredients chilled prior to assembly for a refreshing bite.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more honey or sugar based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

The 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options that complement its fresh flavors beautifully.

1. Grilled Chicken Breast – Juicy grilled chicken adds protein and makes for a satisfying meal alongside the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty quinoa dish can bring texture and additional nutrients, enhancing your overall dining experience.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness pairs well with the tart strawberries in the salad while offering hearty satisfaction.
4. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad – This dish brings extra protein and flavors from herbs, making it an excellent match.
5. Couscous Salad – Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and lemon can balance the sweetness of the strawberries nicely.
6. Vegetable Stir-Fry – A colorful mix of stir-fried veggies gives you added crunch and warmth, creating variety on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad, it’s easy to overlook some important details that can affect flavor and presentation.

• Bold Ingredients: Skipping fresh ingredients like spinach or strawberries will lead to a dull salad. Always choose ripe, fresh produce for the best flavor.
• Bold Dressing Mix: Not properly mixing the dressing can leave some parts overly sweet or tangy. Whisk your balsamic vinegar and honey thoroughly for an even taste.
• Bold Feta Choice: Using low-quality feta cheese might compromise the salad’s flavor. Opt for crumbled feta made from good quality ingredients for better taste.
• Bold Overloading: Adding too many toppings can overwhelm the salad. Stick to a few key ingredients like pecans and feta to let the strawberries shine.
• Bold Slicing Technique: Cutting strawberries too thickly can make them hard to eat. Slice them thinly for better texture and to enhance their sweetness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad due to its fresh ingredients which may become soggy upon thawing.

Reheating 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the salad on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes, ensuring not to overheat the greens.
• Microwave: Heat in short increments of 30 seconds until slightly warm; avoid overheating to retain freshness.
• Stovetop: Gently warm in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until just heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing and enjoying a 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad.

Can I add other fruits to my 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad?

Yes! Feel free to add fruits like mandarin oranges or apples for extra flavor and texture.

How do I make my dressing healthier?

Substitute honey with agave syrup or use less honey overall. You can also add mustard for an extra kick without added sugar.

What if I don’t have feta cheese?

You can replace feta with goat cheese or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version of this salad.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

You can prep ingredients in advance but it’s best to dress the salad just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

The 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Its vibrant colors make it suitable for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings. Encourage creativity by adding your favorite nuts or swapping out fruits based on what’s in season!