Strawberry Spinach Salad
User Reviews
5
Strawberry Spinach Salad
Description
This salad pairs tender, fresh spinach with ripe, sweet strawberries, thinly sliced red onion for a mild sharpness, and halved pecans adding a crunchy element. Crumbled feta cheese adds a creamy, slightly salty note that complements the sweetness of the fruit and the tang of the balsamic glaze.
The balsamic glaze is prepared by simmering balsamic vinegar with honey until thickened to a syrup consistency. Light seasoning with salt and freshly ground pepper finishes the glaze, which is drizzled over the salad just before serving for a balanced sweetness and acidity.
To keep the salad crisp and fresh, the spinach should be well washed and dried. The ripeness of strawberries is key for sweetness, and cheese can be varied to gorgonzola or goat cheese for different flavor profiles. Pecans can be substituted with walnuts, slivered almonds, or sunflower seeds if desired.
Serve immediately after dressing to prevent the spinach from wilting, maintaining the salad's bright texture and appearance.
Ingredients
For the salad
- 2 cups spinach packed
- 1 cup strawberries sliced
- ¼ red onion sliced, large
- 1 cup pecans halved
- feta cheese or gorgonzola cheese
For the balsamic glaze
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 Tablespoon honey
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- black pepper freshly ground, pinch
Instructions
- Cook balsamic vinegar and honey in a small pot over medium-high heat. Boil for about 5 minutes until it thickens. Add salt and pepper.
- Combine the spinach, strawberries, pecans, and red onion slices in a large salad bowl or on a platter. Sprinkle feta cheese, and drizzle the balsamic glaze over salad. Toss lightly and serve immediately.
Notes
- Wash and thoroughly dry spinach leaves using a salad spinner or paper towels to prevent sogginess.
- Use ripe strawberries for natural sweetness and better flavor balance.
- Feta cheese can be substituted with gorgonzola or crumbled goat cheese for a different taste.
- If pecans are unavailable or you prefer a nut-free option, walnuts, slivered almonds, or sunflower seeds work well.
- Serve the salad immediately after adding the balsamic glaze to keep the spinach crisp and fresh.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 278 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 278kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 26g | 9% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 19g | 29% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 4mg | 1% |
| Sodium | 222mg | 9% |
| Potassium | 286mg | 6% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 21g | 42% |
| Vitamin A | 1442IU | 29% |
| Vitamin C | 26mg | 29% |
| Calcium | 71mg | 7% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.