Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Gorgeous summer strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is a delightful dish that brightens any meal. This salad combines fresh strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy nuts, drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a simple lunch, this recipe stands out with its sweet and savory notes. It’s easy to prepare and offers a refreshing burst of flavor, making it a go-to choice for warm weather meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of sweet strawberries and tangy balsamic creates a unique dressing that elevates the salad.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with vitamins from spinach, healthy fats from avocado, and protein from feta.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 22 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days when you want something healthy without the fuss.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite proteins or swap out nuts based on what you have at home.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors make it an eye-catching addition to any table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar
• Mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar: Great for mixing and storing your dressing; it allows for easy shaking and minimal cleanup.
• Frying pan: Ideal for toasting almonds, ensuring they become crispy and flavorful without burning.
• Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for slicing fruits and vegetables quickly and safely.

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 crumbles
• ⅓ cup raw sliced almonds
• ¼ cup chopped shelled roasted pistachios

For the Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette

• 3 tablespoon 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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 to 5 minutes until they are slightly golden brown.
* Remove from heat and allow them to cool.

Step 3: Assemble Your Salad

In a large bowl:
* Add the spinach as your base.
* Layer on the strawberries, avocado slices, red onion, feta crumbles, toasted almonds, and chopped pistachios.

You can either add dressing now or serve it on the side for individual servings. Top each salad bowl with extra toasted almonds and drizzle each portion with about one-fourth of the dressing. Enjoy your delicious strawberry spinach salad!

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether it’s a light lunch or a side at dinner, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

For a Light Lunch

• Serve the salad in individual bowls for easy portioning and an elegant presentation.
• Pair with whole grain bread or pita chips for added texture and satisfaction.

As a Side Dish

• Accompany grilled chicken or fish to complement the fresh flavors of the salad.
• Use as a refreshing side at summer barbecues, bringing brightness to heavier dishes.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare the salad in advance, storing the dressing separately to keep ingredients fresh until you’re ready to serve.
• Pack in mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches during the week.

With Additional Toppings

• Add grilled shrimp or chicken on top for a protein boost.
• Sprinkle some crumbled goat cheese for an extra creamy flavor that pairs well with strawberries.

How to Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

To create the perfect strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Opt for organic spinach and ripe strawberries for maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Toast almonds carefully: Keep an eye on the almonds while toasting; they can burn quickly if left unattended.
• Balance flavors: Adjust the vinaigrette by adding more mustard or jam based on your taste preference—this enhances sweetness and tanginess.
• Layer thoughtfully: When assembling, layer ingredients starting with spinach to help prevent sogginess from the dressing.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic pairs beautifully with many side dishes. Here are some excellent options to complement your meal.

1. Grilled Chicken: A simple, seasoned grilled chicken breast adds protein and richness that balances the salad’s freshness.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty grain dish offers additional fiber and nutrients, making it a hearty companion.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add warmth and depth, enhancing the overall dining experience.
4. Cheesy Garlic Bread: A crispy, cheesy loaf pairs perfectly while providing a contrasting texture.
5. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad creates a refreshing contrast that complements the sweet strawberries.
6. Caprese Skewers: These skewers are easy to prepare and bring a burst of flavor that works well alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can overwhelm the flavors. Start with a little and add more to taste.
• Using unripe strawberries: Unripe strawberries can taste sour and affect the overall flavor. Choose ripe, sweet strawberries for the best results.
• Skipping the toasting step: Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and crunch. Don’t skip this step for a more delicious salad.
• Not balancing flavors: Ensure there’s a good balance between sweet, salty, and tangy elements. Adjust your vinaigrette or toppings as needed.
• Neglecting ingredient freshness: Using wilted spinach or old ingredients can ruin your dish. Always use fresh produce for the best taste and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover strawberry spinach salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for 1-2 days, but it’s best eaten fresh.

Freezing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture change of spinach and strawberries when thawed.
• If you must freeze, consider storing only the dressing separately.

Reheating Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the salad on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for short intervals, stirring in between to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat until warmed through, stirring gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most ingredients ahead but it’s best to dress the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.

How do I customize my Strawberry Spinach Salad?

Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or even grilled chicken for extra protein. You can also swap feta for goat cheese.

What can I use instead of balsamic vinegar?

If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar are good alternatives that will still provide that tangy flavor.

Is this Strawberry Spinach Salad gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no grains or gluten-containing ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. It’s perfect as a light lunch or as a delightful side dish at dinner gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite nuts or proteins, making it a versatile option for any meal! Enjoy experimenting with this fresh summer salad!