The Spinach and Strawberry Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that perfectly encapsulates the flavors of spring and summer. It’s a delightful combination of sweet, juicy strawberries and tender, earthy spinach, dressed in a light, zesty vinaigrette. This salad is not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes, with its beautiful blend of colors and textures. It’s ideal for a light lunch, a starter, or as a side dish for gatherings and picnics.
Ingredients:
The key components of this salad are fresh spinach and ripe strawberries. Spinach, with its rich green hue, provides a nutritious base, packed with vitamins and minerals. The strawberries add a pop of red and a natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the spinach. To add texture and a nutty flavor, sliced almonds or pecans can be included. For those who enjoy cheese, crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese lends a creamy element to the salad.
Dressing:
The dressing for the Spinach and Strawberry Salad is typically a balsamic vinaigrette, which complements the sweetness of the strawberries. To make it, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness, and mustard for a bit of tang. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This dressing is light and enhances the flavors of the salad without overwhelming them.
Preparation:
Preparing this salad is quite simple. The spinach should be washed and dried thoroughly to ensure it’s crisp. The strawberries are washed, hulled, and sliced. If using nuts, toasting them lightly in a dry skillet can enhance their flavor. If cheese is being added, it should be crumbled or cut into small pieces.
Assembly:
To assemble the salad, place the spinach in a large bowl, add the sliced strawberries, and sprinkle the nuts and cheese over the top. Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated. This helps to marry the flavors together and ensures every bite is as delicious as the last.
Serving Suggestions:
The Spinach and Strawberry Salad is best enjoyed fresh. It’s a perfect light meal on its own or can be paired with grilled chicken, fish, or a quiche for a more substantial meal. Its bright and refreshing flavors make it a popular choice for spring and summer menus, outdoor dining, and special occasions.
In summary, the Spinach and Strawberry Salad is a delightful blend of sweet and savory, soft and crunchy elements, all brought together by a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious, and its visual appeal makes it a hit at any table.
Spinach and Strawberry Salad Recipe | S2Recipes
Details Spinach and Strawberry Salad Recipes
Prep Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 10 mins
Servings: 8
Ingredients For Spinach and Strawberry Salad Recipes
2 bunches spinach, rinsed and torn into bite-size pieces
4 cups sliced strawberries
½ cup vegetable oil
½ cup white sugar
¼ cup white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
¼ teaspoon paprika
Instructions: Spinach and Strawberry Salad Recipes
Step 1: Toss together spinach and strawberries in a large bowl.
Step 2: Whisk oil, sugar, vinegar, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and paprika together in a medium bowl. Pour over the spinach and strawberries, and toss to coat.
It's great to have on baby shower, July 4th, Labor Day weekend! Thanks
I love this recipe and have made it many times. This time, iused rice vinegar and added a strawberry. I use an immersion blender to mix. I made candied pecans in place of the seeds. Very delicious!
Amazing
Enjoyed this salad with the addition of sliced almonds and feta cheese. As many mentioned, too much sugar. I(I should have read the reviews first!). I tossed the dressing and started over with 1/2 the sugar. Everyone enjoyed. It was a hit!
Yummy. Took recommendations on half-ing sugar amount and it was deliciious! Also left off all the seeds since I didn't have any and used sliced almonds along with balsamic vinegar instead of white wine.
I have made this salad a couple of times and we love it. I substitute raspberry champagne vinegar and I add pecans and crumbled feta cheese.
Easy and delicious!
My family loved this salad and I did to but it was just a to little sweet for my taste thats why I'm giving a 4 star. Thank you for the recipe
All Nutrifacts of Spinach and Strawberry Salad Recipes
✅What are the essential ingredients in a Spinach and Strawberry Salad?
A classic Spinach and Strawberry Salad consists of fresh spinach leaves, ripe strawberries, and usually includes nuts like sliced almonds or walnuts. It's often garnished with feta or goat cheese and can be enhanced with red onion slices for an additional flavor profile.
✅What type of dressing works best with Spinach and Strawberry Salad?
A balsamic vinaigrette is a popular choice for this salad, bringing a perfect balance of tangy and sweet. The dressing is typically made with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, and a hint of mustard. The acidity of the vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries.
✅How can you make Spinach and Strawberry Salad a more filling meal?
To make the salad more substantial, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Quinoa or chickpeas are also great additions for extra protein and fiber, making the salad more satisfying as a complete meal.
✅Can the Spinach and Strawberry Salad be prepared in advance?
Yes, but it's best to store the components separately to maintain freshness. Wash and dry the spinach and strawberries, and store them in the fridge. Keep the dressing in a separate container and toss everything together just before serving to ensure the salad remains crisp and fresh.
✅What are the nutritional benefits of Spinach and Strawberry Salad?
This salad is highly nutritious. Spinach is a rich source of iron and vitamins, while strawberries provide antioxidants and vitamin C. The nuts add healthy fats and proteins. Together, these ingredients offer a blend of essential nutrients beneficial for overall health.
✅How to ensure strawberries are well-prepared for the salad?
Choose ripe, bright red strawberries and wash them gently under cold water. Pat them dry and slice them just before adding to the salad to preserve their freshness and prevent them from becoming soggy.
