Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Gorgeous summer strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is a delightful dish that shines during warm weather. This vibrant salad combines fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, creamy avocado, and tangy feta, topped with a luscious strawberry balsamic vinaigrette. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch option. The contrasting flavors and textures make this salad a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: This salad features fresh organic spinach and ripe strawberries, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this stunning salad in no time.
• Versatile Side Dish: Serve it alongside grilled meats or enjoy it as a standalone meal for a healthy lunch.
• Nutritious and Satisfying: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats from avocado and nuts, this salad is both filling and nutritious.
• Customizable: Feel free to modify toppings or the dressing to suit your taste preferences!

Tools and Preparation

To make the strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will simplify your prep process and help you create the best salad possible.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar or small bowl
• Non-stick skillet
• Large mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar or small bowl: Perfect for mixing the vinaigrette; it allows for easy shaking or whisking without mess.
• Non-stick skillet: Ideal for toasting almonds evenly without sticking, enhancing their flavor.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all 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: 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:
1. Add the almonds to a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Stir occasionally for 2–5 minutes until they are slightly golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the organic spinach.
2. Layer on the halved strawberries, avocado slices, red onion, feta crumbles, toasted almonds, and chopped pistachios.
3. You can either drizzle some dressing over the salad now or serve it on the side for individual servings.

Step 4: Serve

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

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Serving Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is a delightful experience that highlights the freshness of its ingredients. This salad can be enjoyed in various ways to suit different occasions and preferences.

As a Main Course

• Serve it as a light lunch for a refreshing meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Top it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein, making it a complete dish.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this salad with grilled meats like steak or chicken for a perfect contrast of flavors.
• It complements rich dishes, offering a sweet and tangy balance that enhances any meal.

In Individual Bowls

• Present the salad in individual bowls for gatherings or parties. This makes serving easy and visually appealing.
• Drizzle each bowl with the vinaigrette just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and crisp.

With Extra Toppings

• Add extra toppings like sunflower seeds or croutons for added crunch and texture.
• Consider including additional fruits like blueberries or raspberries for more variety in taste.

How to Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

To ensure your Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for organic spinach and ripe strawberries for the best flavor and nutrition.
• Toast Almonds Carefully: Watch the almonds closely while toasting to prevent burning. They should be golden brown and fragrant.
• Make Dressing Ahead: Prepare the vinaigrette in advance so that the flavors have time to meld together beautifully.
• Serve Immediately: For optimal crunchiness, serve the salad right after tossing it with dressing. This keeps the spinach fresh.
• Add Protein Wisely: If you’re adding proteins like chicken or cheese, make sure they complement the sweetness of strawberries without overpowering it.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken: Marinated grilled chicken adds protein and enhances the flavors of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf infused with herbs can bring an earthy balance to your meal.
3. Garlic Breadsticks: These warm, buttery breadsticks are perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide warmth and complement the freshness of the salad beautifully.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs well, offering contrasting textures and flavors alongside the salad.
6. Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit skewers can add more sweetness and make your meal visually appealing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a delicious strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic, it’s easy to make small mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality spinach or strawberries can ruin the salad’s taste. Always choose fresh, organic ingredients for the best flavor.

• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount of the strawberry balsamic vinaigrette and add more as needed.

• Not toasting nuts: Skipping the step of toasting almonds can result in a less flavorful salad. Toasting enhances their crunch and brings out their natural oils.

• Cutting vegetables too large: If strawberries or avocado pieces are too big, they can be hard to eat. Cut them into manageable, bite-sized pieces for a better texture.

• Skipping seasoning: Forgetting to season the dish with salt and pepper can leave it flat. Always taste your salad before serving and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to keep the ingredients fresh.

Freezing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as ingredients like spinach and avocados do not thaw well.
• Best Practice: Prepare only what you will eat within a few days for optimal freshness.

Reheating Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm any leftover components on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between, until warmed through. Be cautious not to overheat.

• Stovetop: Place in a pan over medium-low heat, stirring gently until warmed. This method helps maintain texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic?

You can easily customize this salad by adding proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas, or swapping out feta for goat cheese.

How long does strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic last?

The salad lasts up to 2 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

What other toppings work well with this salad?

Feel free to experiment with toppings like nuts, seeds, or different cheeses based on your preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare individual components ahead of time for quick assembly during lunch or dinner.

Can I make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute feta cheese with avocado or tofu and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.

Final Thoughts

This strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is not only stunning but also versatile enough for various occasions. Its sweet and tangy flavor combined with crunchy textures makes it an irresistible choice. Don’t hesitate to try different toppings or dressings; feel free to customize it according to your taste!