Strawberry Spinach Salad

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Strawberry Spinach Salad

A delightful mix of sweet and savory, this Strawberry Spinach Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for spring and summer. The combination of juicy strawberries, tender spinach, and crunchy nuts creates a satisfying texture, while a tangy dressing brings all the flavors together. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a side dish, or a party favorite, this salad is sure to impress.

The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity. Fresh strawberries add natural sweetness, while spinach provides a nutrient-packed base. Tossed with creamy cheese, crunchy walnuts or pecans, and a zesty vinaigrette, every bite is bursting with flavor. It’s a colorful, wholesome choice that’s both elegant and effortless to prepare.

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Ingredients for this Strawberry Spinach Salad

• Fresh spinach – 6 cups, washed and dried
• Strawberries – 2 cups, sliced
• Red onion – ¼ cup, thinly sliced
• Feta cheese – ½ cup, crumbled (or goat cheese for a tangier twist)
• Pecans or walnuts – ½ cup, toasted
• Balsamic vinaigrette – ⅓ cup (homemade or store-bought)
• Salt and pepper – to taste

Optional add-ins for extra texture and flavor:

• Avocado – sliced
• Grilled chicken – for added protein
• Sunflower seeds – for a nut-free crunch

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Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by thoroughly washing and drying the spinach. Slice the strawberries into thin pieces and thinly slice the red onion. Toast the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and slightly golden. If using feta or goat cheese, crumble it into small pieces.

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Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, add the spinach as the base. Evenly distribute the sliced strawberries, red onion, toasted nuts, and crumbled cheese over the top. If you’re including optional ingredients like avocado or grilled chicken, layer them in as well.

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Step 3: Dress and Toss

Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Gently toss everything together to ensure the ingredients are well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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Step 4: Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving platter or bowl. For a finishing touch, sprinkle a few extra nuts or cheese crumbles on top to enhance presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Storage Instructions

To keep your Strawberry Spinach Salad fresh, store the components separately if preparing in advance. Place the spinach, strawberries, nuts, and cheese in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The vinaigrette should be kept in a sealed jar or bottle. When ready to serve, combine the ingredients and toss with the dressing for the best texture and flavor.

If you’ve already dressed the salad, store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 24 hours to prevent the spinach from wilting.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~220
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 250mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient choices and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! For best results, prepare all ingredients in advance and store them separately. Combine and dress the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

Goat cheese, blue cheese, or even shredded mozzarella can work well as alternatives.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are ideal for this salad, but if using frozen, thaw them first and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture.

What’s the best dressing for this salad?

A balsamic vinaigrette pairs perfectly, but a honey mustard or poppy seed dressing can also complement the flavors.

How can I add more protein to this salad?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great protein additions.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

Yes! Simply omit the cheese or use a vegan alternative.

Can I add grains like quinoa or farro?

Absolutely! Adding cooked grains can turn this salad into a hearty main course.

How can I enhance the crunch factor?

Try adding roasted sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or crispy chickpeas for an extra layer of texture.

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