Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Gorgeous summer strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is the perfect dish for warm days. This refreshing salad features ripe strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy nuts, all topped with a vibrant strawberry balsamic vinaigrette. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, enjoying a family barbecue, or looking for a light lunch option, this strawberry salad recipe is sure to impress. With its sweet and tangy flavors, it’s not just a salad; it’s an experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This salad can be made in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of strawberries and balsamic brings a delightful taste that excites your palate.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side or main dish, this salad complements various meals and occasions.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats from avocado and nuts, it’s both satisfying and nourishing.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors make this salad visually appealing and perfect for entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic, gather the necessary tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar or small bowl
• Pan for toasting almonds
• Large mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar or small bowl: Perfect for mixing the dressing without making a mess.
• Pan for toasting almonds: Toasting enhances the flavor of the nuts, adding depth to your salad.
• Large mixing bowl: Allows enough space to toss ingredients without spilling.

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 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a mason jar or small bowl, add all of the dressing ingredients. Shake or mix well until combined. Taste the dressing and add additional salt or pepper if needed.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

Toast the almonds on medium heat in a pan. Stir occasionally for about 2–5 minutes until they are slightly golden brown. Remove from heat and let them cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, add the spinach first. Then layer on the strawberries, avocado slices, red onion, feta crumbles, toasted almonds, and chopped pistachios. You can either drizzle dressing over the entire salad now or serve it on the side for individual servings.

Step 4: Serve

Top each salad bowl with extra toasted almonds and drizzle with about ¼ of the dressing per serving. Enjoy your delicious strawberry spinach salad!

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Serving the Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is an opportunity to impress your guests or enjoy a delightful meal at home. This salad can be presented in various ways to suit different occasions, making it versatile and appealing.

Individual Bowls

• Serve each guest a personal bowl of salad, topped with extra toasted almonds for added crunch.

Family Style

• Place the entire salad in a large bowl at the center of the table, allowing everyone to serve themselves. This creates a communal dining experience.

Picnic Style

• Pack individual servings in mason jars for a portable lunch option. Layer ingredients to keep them fresh until you’re ready to eat.

As a Starter

• Present smaller portions as an appetizer before the main course. This light start will whet appetites without overwhelming guests.

How to Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

To make your Strawberry Spinach Salad truly shine, consider these tips that enhance flavor and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables. They significantly improve taste and nutrition.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dressing before serving and tweak the salt and pepper according to your preference for the perfect balance.
• Add Texture: Incorporate other nuts or seeds like walnuts or sunflower seeds for additional crunch.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try using goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier texture that complements the strawberries beautifully.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld together nicely.
• Customize Your Vinaigrette: Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more strawberry jam or even honey if you prefer a sweeter dressing.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Spinach Salad can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this vibrant salad perfectly.

1. Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs makes a hearty addition that pairs well with the salad’s flavors.
2. Quinoa: A light quinoa dish flavored with lemon zest can provide additional protein and fiber while keeping things fresh.
3. Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread adds a comforting element that contrasts well with the crispness of the salad.
4. Roasted Veggies: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables brings an earthy flavor that balances the sweetness of strawberries.
5. Fruit Platter: A colorful fruit platter featuring melons and citrus enhances the fruity notes in your salad, making it refreshing.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These can be filled with rice, beans, or meat, offering a satisfying side that complements lighter salads.
7. Caprese Skewers: Skewers of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a simple yet elegant side filled with Italian flavors.
8. Couscous Salad: A cold couscous salad mixed with herbs and lemon adds brightness and texture alongside your spinach dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the dish’s overall quality. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your spinach and strawberries. Using fresh produce enhances flavor and texture.
• Overdressing the salad: It’s tempting to pour on a lot of dressing, but too much can make the salad soggy. Start with a little and add more as needed.
• Skipping the toast on nuts: Toasting almonds and pistachios adds depth and crunch. Don’t skip this step; it takes just a few minutes and makes a big difference.
• Ignoring flavor balance: Ensure you have a good mix of sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy components. Adjust your vinaigrette to suit your taste for a well-rounded salad.
• Not letting the flavors meld: If you prepare the salad ahead of time, allow it to sit for 15-30 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors integrate beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover strawberry spinach salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 2 days; however, consume it sooner for best quality.

Freezing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to its fresh ingredients.
• The texture of spinach and strawberries changes when frozen.

Reheating Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salad in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm. Be cautious not to overheat as fresh ingredients can wilt.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. This method helps maintain texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can prepare the components in advance but wait to dress the salad until just before serving for optimal freshness.

What are some variations for this strawberry spinach salad?

You can customize this salad by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, substituting goat cheese for feta, or incorporating grilled chicken for added protein.

How do I store leftover dressing from strawberry balsamic vinaigrette?

Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before using again.

Is this strawberry spinach salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s great for meal prep as long as you keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

The strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is not only vibrant but also bursting with flavors and textures that delight every palate. Its versatility makes it ideal as a light lunch or side dish at gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or dressings—this recipe is all about creativity! Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!