15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
Strawberry Spinach Salad is a healthy, vibrant, and easy-to-make recipe that comes together in 15 minutes! Featuring Feta cheese, pecans, and a simple Balsamic dressing, this salad will make a perfect side dish for any weeknight dinner. It is also a crowd-pleaser for many holiday occasions, picnics, potlucks, and other friends and family gatherings!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This salad can be assembled in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of sweet strawberries and tangy feta brings a delightful flavor profile.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or main dish, this salad fits into various occasions from casual meals to festive gatherings.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and nutrients, this salad supports a healthy lifestyle while being delicious.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its appealing colors and flavors make it a favorite at parties and family events.
Tools and Preparation
To make your preparation seamless, gather the essential tools before starting. Having everything on hand allows you to whip up the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad effortlessly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Serving platter
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl is crucial for combining all the ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: Using a whisk helps ensure the balsamic dressing is well-mixed for even flavor distribution.
- Knife: A sharp knife aids in slicing fruits neatly, enhancing presentation.
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)
For the Salad
- 10 oz baby spinach (fresh)
- 3 cups strawberries (cleaned and hulled, sliced)
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/3 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 1 cup pecans (toasted, some of them chopped)
How to Make 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- In a mixing bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar).
- Whisk together until fully blended.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, add the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and blueberries.
- Pour the dressing over the greens and fruits.
- Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Step 3: Add Toppings
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad.
- Add the toasted pecans, reserving some for garnish if desired.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
- Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls.
- Enjoy your refreshing 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad!
How to Serve 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
Serving a vibrant 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad can elevate any meal. This refreshing salad pairs well with various dishes and can be enjoyed in multiple ways.
As a Side Dish
- Complementary Flavor: Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal.
- Picnic Delight: Pack it in lunch boxes for a fresh addition to outdoor meals.
As a Main Course
- Protein Boost: Add grilled shrimp or sliced chicken breast to make it heartier.
- Nutty Twist: Toss in additional nuts like almonds for extra crunch and nutrition.
For Special Occasions
- Holiday Feature: Present it at holiday dinners as a colorful side that everyone loves.
- Brunch Essential: Include it in your brunch spread for an elegant touch.
On Its Own
- Quick Snack: Enjoy it solo for a light and refreshing snack.
- Meal Prep Option: Prepare ahead of time for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
How to Perfect 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
To make the best 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad, follow these helpful tips for optimal flavor and presentation.
- Ingredients: Use ripe strawberries and fresh spinach for maximum flavor.
- Texture Matters: Toast pecans just before serving to enhance their crunchiness.
- Dress Wisely: Drizzle the balsamic dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Chill Ahead: Refrigerate ingredients before assembling for a refreshing cold salad.
Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
Pairing your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy and flavorful, perfect with the salad’s sweet notes.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutritious grain dish that adds texture and protein.
- Garlic Bread Sticks: Crunchy and buttery, they pair beautifully with salads.
- Mediterranean Couscous: Light and zesty, this dish enhances the Mediterranean flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection add depth to your meal.
- Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta makes for a comforting contrast to the salad’s freshness.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful, filled with grains or meat, these are visually appealing and delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad, avoid common pitfalls to ensure a delightful experience.
- Ingredients: Not using fresh ingredients can dull the salad’s flavor. Always choose ripe strawberries and fresh spinach for the best taste.
- Preparation Time: Rushing through preparation can lead to improper washing and cutting. Take the full 15 minutes to wash and slice everything neatly.
- Dressing Balance: Overdressing can make the salad soggy. Use just enough balsamic dressing to coat the ingredients without overwhelming them.
- Mixing Techniques: Tossing vigorously can damage delicate spinach leaves. Gently mix your ingredients to keep them intact and appealing.
- Serving Temperature: Serving the salad too cold can mute flavors. Allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 2 days for best freshness.
Freezing 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in spinach and strawberries.
- If necessary, freeze only the dressing separately.
Reheating 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes, but this may affect the salad’s freshness.
- Microwave: Heat on low power for about 30 seconds, but it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
- Stovetop: Not advisable as it may wilt the spinach excessively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad special?
This salad features a colorful mix of strawberries, spinach, feta, and pecans with a simple balsamic dressing that creates a delightful balance of flavors.
Can I customize my 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad?
Absolutely! You can add other fruits like apples or oranges or swap feta for goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
How should I store leftovers of my Strawberry Spinach Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within two days.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is quick to prepare, making it perfect for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Final Thoughts
The 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, its vibrant colors and flavors will impress everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients!
15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of our 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad, a refreshing and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This quick and easy recipe combines fresh baby spinach, sweet strawberries, juicy blueberries, and creamy feta cheese, all drizzled with a delightful balsamic dressing. Whether served as an elegant side at holiday gatherings or enjoyed as a light lunch on busy weekdays, this salad is bound to please guests and family alike. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a versatile addition to any meal plan and an excellent way to incorporate more fruits and greens into your diet.
Ingredients
- 10 oz baby spinach
- 3 cups strawberries (sliced)
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/3 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 1 cup pecans (toasted)
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
Instructions
- To prepare the dressing, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar) in a mixing bowl until well combined.
- In a large bowl, toss the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and blueberries.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese and toasted pecans before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad bowl (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 145mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
