Strawberry Pecan Spinach Salad

Looking for a delicious and healthy salad recipe that's easy to prepare? Look no further than this Strawberry Pecan Spinach Salad!

Featuring a tasty combination of fresh spinach, sweet strawberries, crunchy pecans, feta cheese, and a tangy balsamic dressing, this salad is sure to become a new favorite. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy lunch or a light and refreshing dinner, this recipe has got you covered. So grab your ingredients and let's get started!

Looking for more salad recipes? Try my Mediterranean Cucumber Salad, Lemon Radish Salad, and Roasted Pepper Caprese Salad.

Why You'll Love This Strawberry Pecan Spinach Salad

• Quick and easy to prepare: This recipe takes just a few minutes to put together, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you're short on time.
• Healthy and nutritious: Packed with fresh spinach, strawberries, and pecans, this salad is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The balsamic dressing is also a healthier alternative to store-bought dressings.
• Delicious and satisfying: With a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, this salad is sure to satisfy your taste buds. The combination of fresh spinach, sweet strawberries, tangy feta cheese, and crunchy pecans is a winning combination that's hard to resist!

Ingredients & Substitutions

Full list of ingredients with measurements listed below in recipe card. 

• Baby spinach - provides a fresh and nutritious base for the salad. Possible substitutions: arugula, kale, mixed greens.
• Strawberries - adds a sweet and juicy flavor to the salad. Possible substitutions: raspberries, blueberries, blackberries.
• Pecans - provides a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the salad. Possible substitutions: walnuts, almonds, cashews.
• Red onion - adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to the salad. Possible substitutions: shallots, scallions, chives.
• Feta cheese - adds a tangy and salty flavor to the salad. Possible substitutions: goat cheese, blue cheese, Parmesan cheese.
• Extra virgin olive oil - used to make the balsamic dressing and adds a smooth and fruity flavor to the salad. Possible substitutions: avocado oil, grapeseed oil, canola oil.
• Balsamic vinegar - used to make the balsamic dressing and adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the salad. Possible substitutions: red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, white balsamic vinegar.
• Honey - used to sweeten the balsamic dressing and balance out the acidity. Possible substitutions: maple syrup, agave nectar, brown sugar.
• Dijon mustard (optional) - adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to the balsamic dressing. Possible substitutions: whole grain mustard, yellow mustard, honey mustard.
• Salt and pepper - used to season the salad to taste. Possible substitutions: any other preferred spices or seasonings.

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl - to assemble the salad.
• Small bowl or mason jar - to whisk or shake the balsamic dressing.
• Whisk or mason jar with lid - to mix the balsamic dressing.
• Cutting board - to chop the strawberries and red onions.
• Sharp knife - to chop the strawberries and red onions.
• Measuring spoons - to measure the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
• Salad tongs or large spoon - to toss and serve the salad.
• Skillet (optional) - to toast the pecans for added flavor and crunch.

Note: Some of the equipment listed above is optional and can be substituted based on personal preference.

How to Make this Recipe

Full step-by-step instructions listed below in recipe card. 

1. Prepare the balsamic dressing. In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard (optional), salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.

Assemble the salad. In a large mixing bowl, add the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, halved or chopped pecans, crumbled or diced feta cheese, and sliced red onion. Toss the ingredients together until well combined.

Add the dressing. Give the balsamic dressing another whisk (or shake if using a mason jar) and pour ⅔ of it over the salad. Toss the salad with salad tongs or a large spoon until the dressing is evenly distributed. Taste the salad and add more dressing if needed.

Serve and enjoy! Once the salad is dressed to your liking, divide it among plates or bowls and serve immediately. This salad is best enjoyed fresh and can be served as a side dish or a main course.

Optional: To add more flavor and crunch to the salad, you can toast the pecans in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant. Let them cool before adding them to the salad.

Variations

• Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Grilled Chicken: Add grilled chicken breast to the salad for a protein boost and a heartier meal.
• Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans: Use candied pecans instead of regular pecans for a sweeter and crunchier salad.
• Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Blue Cheese: Substitute feta cheese with blue cheese for a tangier and creamier salad.
• Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad instead of making the balsamic dressing for a quicker and easier salad.
• Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Avocado: Add diced avocado to the salad for a creamier texture and healthy fats.
• Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Quinoa: Add cooked quinoa to the salad for a protein and fiber boost and a more filling meal.
• Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Orange Vinaigrette: Substitute the balsamic dressing with an orange vinaigrette for a citrusy and refreshing salad.
• Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Goat Cheese: Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese for a milder and creamier salad.

Wine Pairing

A light-bodied and fruity red wine or a crisp and acidic white wine would pair well with this salad. Here are some options:

1. Pinot Noir - The light-bodied and fruity flavors of Pinot Noir complement the sweetness of the strawberries and the tanginess of the balsamic dressing.
2. Beaujolais - Similar to Pinot Noir, Beaujolais is a light-bodied red wine with fruity flavors that pair well with the sweetness of the strawberries and the tanginess of the balsamic dressing.
3. Sauvignon Blanc - The crisp and acidic flavors of Sauvignon Blanc complement the sweetness of the strawberries and the tanginess of the balsamic dressing.
4. Pinot Grigio - Similar to Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio is a crisp and acidic white wine with flavors that pair well with the sweetness of the strawberries and the tanginess of the balsamic dressing.
5. Rosé - A dry and fruity Rosé wine would also pair well with this salad, as it complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the tanginess of the balsamic dressing while also providing a refreshing and light taste.

FAQ's

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time by preparing the ingredients and storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve the salad, toss the ingredients together with the balsamic dressing and serve immediately.

Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Yes, you can use a different type of lettuce or greens for this salad, such as arugula, kale, or mixed greens. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the salad may vary depending on the type of greens used.

Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, you can use a different type of nut for this salad, such as walnuts, almonds, or cashews. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the salad may vary depending on the type of nut used.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use a different type of cheese for this salad, such as goat cheese, blue cheese, or Parmesan cheese. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the salad may vary depending on the type of cheese used.

Can I use a different type of dressing?

Yes, you can use a different type of dressing for this salad, such as a citrus vinaigrette or a honey mustard dressing. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the salad may vary depending on the type of dressing used.

Tips

• Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
• Wash and dry the spinach and strawberries thoroughly before using them in the salad.
• Toast the pecans in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant for added flavor and crunch.
• Use a sharp knife to slice the strawberries and red onions thinly and evenly.
• Crumble or dice the feta cheese into small pieces for even distribution throughout the salad.
• Whisk or shake the balsamic dressing well to ensure that all the ingredients are well combined.
• Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning and dressing to your liking.
• Serve the salad immediately after tossing with the dressing to prevent the greens from wilting.
• If making the salad ahead of time, store the ingredients separately in airtight containers and toss with the dressing just before serving.
• Experiment with different variations of the salad by adding or substituting ingredients based on personal preference.

Looking for more recipes?

Looking for more salad recipes? Try my Mediterranean Cucumber Salad, Lemon Radish Salad, and Roasted Pepper Caprese Salad.

Did You Make this Recipe?

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Recipe Card

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