Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Gorgeous and refreshing, the Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. This salad is not only great for summer picnics but also makes an elegant addition to any dinner table. With fresh strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy nuts, it’s an ideal dish for a light lunch or as a side at your next gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The balance of sweet strawberries and tangy balsamic vinaigrette creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from spinach and healthy fats from avocado, this salad is good for you!
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 22 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days when you still want to eat well.
• Versatile Presentation: Serve it as a main dish or side; it fits beautifully into various meal occasions.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the ingredients ahead of time and assemble just before serving for easy entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delightful salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar or small bowl
• Large bowl
• Pan for toasting almonds
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar or small bowl: Perfect for mixing your vinaigrette without making a mess.
• Large bowl: Provides ample space to toss all ingredients together without spilling.
• Pan for toasting almonds: Allows even heat distribution for perfectly toasted nuts that enhance the flavor of your salad.

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Ingredients

For this vibrant salad, gather the following fresh ingredients:

For the salad:

• 1 package (5 ounces) organic spinach
• 8 ounces strawberries, halved (about 2 cups halved strawberries)
• 1 large avocado, sliced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup feta cheese
• ⅓ cup raw sliced almonds
• ¼ cup chopped shelled roasted pistachios

For the balsamic strawberry vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, grated or finely minced
• ½ teaspoon dijon mustard
• ½ tablespoon strawberry jam (or jam of choice)
• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a mason jar or small bowl, add all of the dressing ingredients. Shake or mix well to combine. Taste and add additional salt/pepper if necessary.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

Toast the almonds on the stovetop:
* Add the almonds to a pan over medium heat.
* Stir occasionally for 2-5 minutes until almonds are slightly golden brown.
* Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl:
1. Add spinach as your base.
2. Layer on the halved strawberries, sliced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, feta cheese, toasted almonds, and chopped pistachios.
3. You can either dress the salad now or serve the dressing on the side for individual servings.

Top each salad bowl with extra toasted almonds and drizzle with about ¼ of the dressing per serving. Enjoy your Strawberry Spinach Salad!

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Course: Gluten Free, Grain Free, Lunch, Salad, Side Dish, Vegetarian
Cuisine: American

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Serving a Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is a delightful way to enjoy fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. This salad can be presented in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

Individual Bowls

• Serve the salad in individual bowls for a personalized touch, allowing guests to enjoy their own portion of this delicious mix.

Family Style

• Place the salad in a large bowl at the center of the table for family-style dining. Guests can help themselves, encouraging a communal feel.

Picnic Ready

• Pack the salad into portable containers for a picnic. This makes it easy to transport and enjoy outdoors while keeping fresh ingredients intact.

As a Main Dish

• Add grilled chicken or turkey slices on top of the salad for a heartier meal. This turns it into a fulfilling main dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

How to Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Creating the perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic requires some attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your salad:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and ripe strawberries. Fresh produce enhances flavor and nutrition.
• Toast Your Nuts: Toasting almonds adds depth and crunch to your salad. A quick 2-5 minutes on medium heat does wonders.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad components before serving for an extra refreshing experience, especially on warm days.
• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like grilled vegetables or seeds for an added layer of flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Spinach Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent suggestions:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinate chicken in herbs and spices, then grill for juicy skewers that complement the freshness of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs serves as a nutritious side that balances the sweetness of strawberries.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provide a sweet contrast to the tangy vinaigrette.
4. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crisp spring rolls filled with vegetables offer crunch and freshness, pairing nicely with the salad.
5. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make an irresistible side that complements any meal.
6. Caprese Skewers: Combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil on skewers for an easy-to-eat appetizer that adds Italian flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using stale ingredients: Freshness matters! Always select ripe strawberries and crisp spinach for the best flavor.
• Overdressing the salad: Less is more when it comes to dressing. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to avoid sogginess.
• Skipping the toasting step: Toasting almonds enhances their flavor. Don’t skip this step; it adds a delightful crunch to your salad.
• Not balancing flavors: Ensure you have both sweet and savory elements. Adjust the balsamic vinaigrette if it tastes too sweet or sour.
• Cutting ingredients unevenly: Uniform pieces make for a better presentation and consistent flavor in every bite. Take your time while slicing!
• Assembling too early: If you’re preparing ahead, keep components separate until serving. This keeps everything fresh and prevents wilting.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It can be kept for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to eat for optimal freshness.

Freezing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Freezing is not recommended as the texture of spinach and strawberries will change once thawed.

Reheating Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes, just until slightly warmed.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid cooking the spinach.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes! The dressing can be prepared up to one week in advance. Store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use crumbled goat cheese or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version while still enjoying great flavor.

How do I customize my Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic?

Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or other fruits like blueberries or mandarin oranges for variety.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

Can I use different greens besides spinach?

Yes! You can substitute spinach with arugula or mixed greens based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

The Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is not just visually stunning but also packed with flavors that delight your palate. Its versatility allows for various customization options like adding different fruits or nuts, making it perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate—give this delicious salad a try!