When it comes to easy, healthy, and flavor-packed salads, nothing beats the timeless beauty of a Strawberry Spinach Salad. This recipe is bright, colorful, and takes only 15 minutes to make — no cooking required! It’s the perfect go-to side dish or light meal that brings together sweet strawberries, baby spinach, creamy feta, crunchy pecans, and a tangy homemade balsamic vinaigrette.
This salad is a summer classic but truly delicious all year round. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a fresh side for grilled meats, or a beautiful addition to your brunch table, this salad delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
🍓 Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish.
- No Cooking Required: Just slice, whisk, and toss!
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: Sweet, salty, tangy, and crunchy.
- Packed with Nutrition: Loaded with vitamins, fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats.
- Versatile: Great on its own or topped with grilled chicken or salmon.
🥗 Ingredients (U.S. Standard Measurements – Serves 4)
For the Salad:
- 6 cups baby spinach
- 1½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese)
- ⅓ cup toasted pecans or walnuts (or use candied pecans for extra sweetness)
- Optional: 1 avocado, sliced
For the Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and black pepper to taste
⏱️ Instructions
1. Toast the nuts (optional but recommended):
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans or walnuts for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden. Let cool.
2. Make the vinaigrette:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
3. Assemble the salad:
In a large salad bowl, add the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, feta, and toasted nuts. Gently toss to combine.
4. Dress and serve:
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss lightly and garnish with sliced avocado if using. Serve immediately.
🔍 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 8g
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Sodium: 260mg
A nutrient-dense, heart-healthy salad with antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats.
💡 Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the sweetest flavor.
- Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, salmon, tofu, or chickpeas for a full meal.
- Make ahead: Mix the salad ingredients and keep the vinaigrette separate until ready to serve.
- Dairy-free version: Skip the feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Swap it up: Use arugula, kale, or mixed greens instead of spinach.
🌟 Something Extra From Me to You
This salad is incredibly flexible — don’t be afraid to get creative! Add blueberries for extra berry brightness, quinoa for extra texture and protein, or a sprinkle of chia seeds for a superfood twist.
Hosting a brunch or dinner party? Serve it in a large wooden bowl for a rustic, elegant presentation. Want to make it even more luxurious? Add candied pecans and a drizzle of aged balsamic reduction for next-level flavor.
And here’s a secret touch: toss in a few fresh basil or mint leaves to add a surprising pop of freshness that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
