Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Gorgeous summer strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is not just visually appealing; it’s also a delightful mix of flavors and textures. This salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch. With its sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy toppings, it is sure to impress anyone at your table. The homemade strawberry balsamic vinaigrette adds the perfect finishing touch, making this dish a must-try for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: This salad bursts with the sweetness of strawberries and the creaminess of avocado.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s ideal for busy days.
• Nutritious and Healthy: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, it makes for a wholesome meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or side; it complements many meals.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors make it an eye-catching addition to any table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will save you time and effort in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar or small bowl: Perfect for mixing your vinaigrette without making a mess.
• Pan for toasting almonds: Ensures even heating for the perfect crunch in your salad.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to combine all ingredients effortlessly.

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 Vinaigrette

1. In a mason jar or small bowl, add all of the dressing ingredients.
2. Shake or mix well to combine until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

1. Place sliced almonds in a pan over medium heat.
2. Stir occasionally for 2–5 minutes until they are slightly golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and let them cool completely.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, add organic spinach as your base.
2. Layer on the halved strawberries, sliced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, feta crumbles, toasted almonds, and chopped pistachios.
3. You can either drizzle dressing over the salad now or serve it on the side for individuals to add as desired.

Step 4: Serve

1. Top each serving with extra toasted almonds if you like.
2. Drizzle each bowl with about one-quarter of the prepared dressing before serving.

Enjoy your vibrant strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic!

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

This strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or as a side, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

For a Light Lunch

• Pair the salad with a slice of whole grain bread for a wholesome meal.
• Add grilled chicken or shrimp on top for extra protein.

As a Festive Side Dish

• Serve the salad at barbecues or picnics as a refreshing side.
• Garnish with edible flowers for an elegant touch.

Individual Serving Bowls

• Present each serving in small bowls for easy sharing at gatherings.
• Drizzle the dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh.

With Additional Toppings

• Consider adding sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for an extra crunch.
• Top with crumbled goat cheese instead of feta for a different flavor profile.

How to Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

To create the best strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic, consider these helpful tips that enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh organic spinach and ripe strawberries make all the difference in taste.
• Toast almonds properly: Toasting enhances their flavor, making your salad even more delicious.
• Chill the vinaigrette: A cold dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the salad’s ingredients.
• Balance flavors: Adjust sweetness and tanginess in the dressing to suit your palate; you can add more jam or vinegar as desired.
• Layer carefully: Layering ingredients helps maintain freshness and allows everyone to enjoy every component in each bite.
• Add seasonal fruits: Experiment with other berries or fruits depending on what’s in season for added variety.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

This vibrant strawberry spinach salad pairs perfectly with several side dishes. Here are some great options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs pair well and add protein.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes offers a nutritious addition.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Savory roasted sweet potatoes provide a sweet contrast to the salad’s tanginess.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with rice and veggies make for an eye-catching side.
5. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread serves as a crunchy counterpart to this fresh dish.
6. Caprese Skewers: Cheese, basil, and tomato skewers bring Italian flair alongside your salad.
7. Cucumber Raita: A cool yogurt-based dip can balance the flavors of the salad nicely.
8. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs adds texture and flavor without overpowering the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is easy, but there are some common mistakes that can detract from your dish.

• Skipping the Toasting Step: Not toasting the almonds can lead to a bland flavor. Toasting enhances their crunch and adds depth. Always toast nuts before adding them to salads.
• Overdressing the Salad: Using too much dressing can overwhelm the fresh flavors. Start with a small amount and add more as needed for balance.
• Using Unripe Strawberries: Choosing unripe or overly soft strawberries can affect the sweetness and texture of your salad. Select firm, bright red strawberries for the best results.
• Ignoring Ingredient Preparation: Failing to thinly slice ingredients like red onion can create overwhelming bites. Take time to cut ingredients properly for even flavor distribution.
• Not Mixing Well: Layering ingredients without mixing may result in uneven flavor and texture. Gently toss the salad or let everyone mix their own servings for a better experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store your strawberry spinach salad in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Container: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent wilting.
• Dressing Storage: Keep the strawberry balsamic vinaigrette separate until ready to serve for optimal taste.

Freezing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Freezing Not Recommended: It’s best not to freeze this salad due to the texture changes in spinach and strawberries.
• Alternative Options: If you have leftover dressing, it can be frozen in ice cube trays for future use.

Reheating Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm assembled salad for about 5-10 minutes, if desired. However, fresh salads are best served cold.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on low power for no more than 30 seconds. This will help warm without wilting.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat for a few minutes. Stir gently until warmed through but not cooked.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic?

Strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is a vibrant dish that combines fresh spinach, strawberries, avocado, feta cheese, nuts, and a delicious homemade vinaigrette made from balsamic vinegar and strawberry jam.

How long does it take to make this recipe?

The total time to prepare strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is approximately 22 minutes, making it a quick option for lunch or dinner.

Can I customize my Strawberry Spinach Salad?

Absolutely! You can add different fruits like blueberries or nuts like walnuts. Feel free to substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or leave it out entirely for a vegan version.

Is this salad healthy?

Yes! This strawberry spinach salad is packed with nutrients. It’s rich in vitamins from spinach and strawberries while providing healthy fats from avocado and nuts.

Final Thoughts

This strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is not only beautiful but also versatile. Perfect as a light lunch or side dish, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences or what’s in season. Give this recipe a try today and enjoy its sweet, tangy flavors!

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Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

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Indulge in the refreshing delight of our Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette. This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy nuts, all nestled on a bed of organic spinach. Topped with a homemade strawberry balsamic dressing, it’s not just a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for light lunches, barbecues, or picnics, this dish is sure to impress your guests while keeping your meal healthy and nutritious.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 package (5 ounces) organic spinach
• 8 ounces strawberries, halved
• 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
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon dijon mustard
• ½ tablespoon strawberry jam
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a mason jar or bowl, combine all dressing ingredients and mix well until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
2. Toast sliced almonds in a pan over medium heat until golden brown; then let cool.
3. In a large bowl, layer spinach, strawberries, avocado, red onion, feta cheese, toasted almonds, and pistachios.
4. Drizzle dressing over the salad or serve on the side for individual portions.

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No cooking required
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (about 300g)
• Calories: 352
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 305mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 15mg