If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion, you’ve come to the right place! This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is one of my absolute favorites. It’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes with its beautiful colors. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want a quick lunch during a busy week, this salad delivers on flavor and nutrition without any fuss.

What makes this salad truly special is its delightful balance of sweet strawberries, creamy cheese, and crunchy candied pecans all tossed together in a homemade balsamic dressing. It’s the kind of dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this salad is ready in no time!
Family-friendly appeal: Even picky eaters will love the sweet and savory combination of flavors.
Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare all the components in advance and toss them together when you’re ready to serve.
Versatile options: Easily adapt this recipe with your favorite nuts or fruits for a personal touch.
Wholesome ingredients: Packed with vitamins from spinach and strawberries, it’s a guilt-free delight!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is easy since it calls for simple, wholesome ingredients. You might already have many of these in your kitchen!

For the Salad

5 oz spinach (or baby kale, washed; about 5 cups)
1 lb strawberries (washed, hulled, and sliced)
1/2 cup feta (crumbled or goat cheese)
1/4 cup pecans (candied)

For the Dressing

1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar)
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon honey (raw)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Variations

One of the best things about this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Swap the cheese: Use crumbled blue cheese, or leave it out entirely for a vegan option.
Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it more filling.
Change up the nuts: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
Incorporate seasonal fruits: Try adding blueberries or raspberries when they’re in season for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base

To make this mixed salad greens and strawberry salad with balsamic vinaigrette dressing, start by combining some yummy mixed salad greens with sliced strawberries and crumbled cheese in a large bowl. This step creates a beautiful base full of color and texture.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together some balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until they’re well combined. This homemade dressing adds incredible flavor and ties all the components together beautifully.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

Next, pour the dressing over the salad and give everything a good toss until the salad is evenly coated. This ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor!

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

For some added flavor and crunch, garnish the salad with some pecans. And voila! Your tasty and healthy salad is ready to be served and enjoyed!

This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is sure to be a hit at your table. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Creating a delightful Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is a breeze, especially with these handy tips!

Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and ripe strawberries to enhance the flavors of your salad. Fresh ingredients not only taste better but also boost the nutritional value.
Make Your Dressing Ahead: Prepare the balsamic dressing in advance and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving your salad an extra layer of deliciousness.
Add Texture: Experiment with different textures by including crispy toppings like toasted sunflower seeds or crunchy chickpeas. This variety makes each bite exciting and satisfying.
Serve Chilled: For a refreshing experience, chill your salad in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving. The coolness enhances the flavors and makes it even more enjoyable on a warm day.
Customize Your Cheese: While feta and goat cheese are fantastic options, feel free to try other cheeses like ricotta or a dairy-free alternative to suit your taste preferences.

How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

This salad is as beautiful as it is delicious! Here are some ideas on how to present this colorful dish that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped fresh mint or basil on top for an aromatic touch that complements the strawberries.
Edible Flowers: Add a few edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies for a stunning visual appeal that makes your salad pop.

Side Dishes

Quinoa Pilaf: This fluffy, nutritious side dish made with quinoa, vegetables, and herbs provides a lovely contrast in texture while adding protein to your meal.
Grilled Chicken Breast: A simple grilled chicken breast seasoned lightly with salt and pepper offers a hearty addition that pairs beautifully with the fresh flavors of the salad.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini add warmth and depth to your table, making for a well-rounded meal.
Whole Wheat Bread: Serve slices of whole wheat bread or rolls on the side; they’re perfect for soaking up any extra dressing from your plate!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a vibrant Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans that’s sure to impress everyone at your table! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance to enjoy throughout the week. Just follow these simple storage tips to keep your salad fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container.
Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent sogginess.
Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

Unfortunately, this salad does not freeze well due to its fresh ingredients.
It’s best enjoyed fresh, so consider preparing smaller portions if you anticipate leftovers.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary.
If you prefer a warm salad, lightly sauté the spinach separately before mixing it with the other ingredients.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying this delightful salad.

Can I use other greens instead of spinach in the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute spinach with arugula, mixed greens, or baby kale for a different flavor profile and texture.

What can I use instead of feta cheese in the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?

If you don’t have feta on hand, goat cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative works wonderfully. You can also skip the cheese altogether if preferred!

How do I make this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans vegan?

To make this salad vegan, simply replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar and use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans. It’s not only visually appealing but incredibly nutritious and bursting with flavor. Perfect for any occasion or just a quick lunch at home! Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations—I’d love to hear from you!