15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful dish that comes together in just 15 minutes. This vibrant salad features fresh strawberries, savory feta cheese, and crunchy pecans, all tossed in a simple balsamic dressing. It’s not only a great side for weeknight dinners but also shines at holiday gatherings, picnics, and potlucks. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a must-try for any salad lover!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Dressing
• For the Salad Base
• For Toppings
• How to Make 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
• Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
• Step 2: Assemble the Salad
• Step 3: Add Toppings
• Step 4: Serve Immediately
• How to Serve 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
• As a Light Lunch
• As a Side Dish
• At Gatherings and Picnics
• For Special Occasions
• How to Perfect 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
• Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
• Reheating 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I customize my 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad?
• How can I make this salad vegan?
• What should I serve with this salad?
• How long does it take to make this salad?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad can be ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The bright flavors of strawberries and blueberries combined with the creamy feta create a refreshing dish that pleases everyone.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive celebration, this salad fits right in as a crowd-pleaser.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats from spinach and nuts, this salad supports your wellness goals.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add or swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

To make this 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad, having the right tools will ensure an effortless cooking experience. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Salad serving bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all the ingredients without spilling, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for creating a smooth balsamic dressing by thoroughly mixing the vinegar and honey.
• Salad serving bowl: Present your beautiful salad in an attractive serving bowl to impress your guests.

Ingredients

For the Dressing

• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)

For the Salad Base

• 10 oz baby spinach (fresh)
• 3 cups strawberries (cleaned and hulled, sliced)
• 1 cup blueberries

For Toppings

• 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

1. In a mixing bowl, combine balsamic vinegar and honey.
2. Use a whisk to blend until fully mixed.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large salad serving bowl, add baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and blueberries.
2. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad base.

Step 3: Add Toppings

1. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top.
2. Add toasted pecans, tossing gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

1. Enjoy your vibrant 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad fresh! Optionally, serve with extra dressing on the side for those who want more flavor.

This quick recipe is sure to become a favorite among friends and family alike!

How to Serve 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

This vibrant 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only quick to prepare but also versatile in its serving options. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these suggestions will elevate your meal.

As a Light Lunch

• Pair with grilled chicken for added protein.
• Serve with a slice of whole-grain bread for a more filling option.

As a Side Dish

• Complement grilled meats like steak or salmon for a balanced plate.
• Offer alongside hearty dishes like lasagna or risotto to lighten the meal.

At Gatherings and Picnics

• Present in a large bowl for guests to serve themselves.
• Pack individual portions in mason jars for easy transport and serving.

For Special Occasions

• Add edible flowers on top for an elegant touch.
• Serve in decorative salad bowls to impress your guests.

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How to Perfect 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

To make the most of your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad, consider these tips that enhance flavor and presentation.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe strawberries will provide the best taste and texture.
• Toast the pecans: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor, making the salad even more delicious.
• Chill your ingredients: Cold ingredients create a refreshing salad experience, especially during warmer months.
• Balance flavors: Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more honey or vinegar according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

This delightful salad pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some great options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Grilled Chicken Breast – Juicy chicken adds protein and pairs wonderfully with the sweet strawberries.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – A healthy grain side that brings nuttiness and is great for absorbing flavors.
3. Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread provides a satisfying contrast to the fresh salad.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized offer earthy notes that balance sweetness.
5. Cheesy Polenta – Creamy polenta brings a comforting component to this light dish.
6. Mediterranean Couscous – Light and zesty couscous enhances the Mediterranean theme with herbs and lemon zest.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping fresh ingredients: Always use fresh spinach and strawberries for the best taste and nutrition. Frozen ingredients can alter the texture of your salad.
• Not toasting pecans: Toasting enhances the flavor of pecans. Simply roast them in a dry skillet for a few minutes to bring out their nutty goodness.
• Using bottled dressing: Homemade Balsamic dressing is quick and easy! A simple mix of balsamic vinegar and honey elevates your salad’s flavors significantly.
• Overdressing the salad: Start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed. You want to enhance flavors without drowning the salad.
• Ignoring portion sizes: Serving sizes matter! Stick to about 1-2 cups per serving for a balanced dish, especially if serving as a side.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in spinach and strawberries after thawing.

Reheating 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes, ensuring not to cook the spinach.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts (30 seconds at a time) until just warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently toss in a pan over low heat for a couple of minutes, being careful not to wilt the spinach too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad.

Can I customize my 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad?

Yes, feel free to add other toppings like grilled chicken or avocado for extra protein and flavor.

How can I make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

What should I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats or seafood dishes, making it a versatile side option.

How long does it take to make this salad?

As the name suggests, you can whip up this delicious salad in just 15 minutes!

Final Thoughts

The 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only vibrant but also incredibly versatile. It makes for an excellent side dish for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy its fresh flavors all season long!