Introduction: The Perfect Summer Salad
There’s a reason strawberry spinach salad is a potluck superstar – that magical combination of sweet berries, tender greens, and tangy dressing is simply irresistible. As a chef, I love how this dish:
• Comes together in minutes (faster than takeout!)
• Packs nutrition (vitamin C from berries, iron from spinach)
• Wows guests (it’s as pretty as it is delicious)
Today I’m sharing my restaurant-tested version that’s been a customer favorite for years. Whether you need a:
- Quick weeknight side
- Impressive dinner party starter
- Meal prep lunch option
…this recipe delivers. Let’s make salad magic!
Why This Recipe Stands Out
✔ Better than basic (with my chef’s dressing trick)
✔ 10-minute prep (seriously faster than driving for takeout)
✔ Make-ahead friendly (dressing stays fresh for days)
✔ Endlessly adaptable (see 5 delicious variations below)
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh spinach | 5 oz | Baby spinach works best |
| Strawberries | 1 pint | Sliced 1/4″ thick |
| Feta cheese | 1/2 cup | Crumbled |
| Pecans | 1/3 cup | Toasted |
| Red onion | 1/4 cup | Thinly sliced |
| For dressing: | ||
| Balsamic vinegar | 3 tbsp | Aged preferred |
| Honey | 2 tbsp | Or maple syrup |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tsp | Emulsifier |
| Olive oil | 1/3 cup | Extra virgin |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
Pro Tip: Toast nuts in a dry skillet for 3 minutes to intensify flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Greens
- Wash and thoroughly dry spinach (wet greens repel dressing)
- Tear large leaves into bite-sized pieces
2. Make the Dressing
- Whisk together balsamic, honey, and Dijon
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking
- Season with pinch of salt and pepper
3. Assemble Like a Pro
- Layer spinach in bowl first
- Artfully arrange strawberries, feta, pecans, and onion
- Drizzle with dressing just before serving
4. Chef’s Presentation Tip
For Instagram-worthy salads:
- Place toppings in concentric circles
- Garnish with whole strawberries and mint leaves
5 Game-Changing Variations
- Protein Power – Add grilled chicken or shrimp
- Vegan Delight – Use maple syrup + almond feta
- Winter Twist – Substitute pomegranate seeds
- Crunchy Upgrade – Swap pecans for candied walnuts
- Creamy Version – Add avocado slices
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1/4 of recipe):
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
FAQs
What kind of dressing goes on strawberry spinach salad?
The classic pairing is balsamic vinaigrette (our recipe uses honey-sweetened balsamic), but poppyseed, raspberry vinaigrette, or creamy avocado dressing work beautifully too!
What kind of dressing goes on a spinach salad?
Spinach’s mild flavor pairs well with:
Creamy dressings (blue cheese, ranch)
Tangy vinaigrettes (balsamic, lemon)
Fruit-based dressings (strawberry, pomegranate)
Our balsamic version complements both spinach and strawberries perfectly.
Are spinach and strawberries good for you?
Absolutely! This combo delivers:
Vitamin C (strawberries) + Iron (spinach) = better nutrient absorption
Antioxidants from both ingredients
Low calorie (about 280kcal per serving)
Fiber-rich for digestion
How to make creamy spinach salad?
Try these creamy twists:
Add avocado slices or avocado dressing
Use crumbled goat cheese instead of feta
Swap balsamic for creamy poppyseed dressing
(Our recipe includes a creamy variation option!)
What to put in strawberry salad?
Beyond spinach, try:
Cheese: Feta, goat, or blue
Nuts: Toasted pecans, almonds, or walnuts
Extras: Red onion, cucumber, grilled chicken
Dressings: Balsamic, citrus, or creamy options
Easy Strawberry Spinach Salad
Ingredients
- 5 oz fresh baby spinach
- 1 pint strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/3 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and thoroughly dry spinach leaves
- Whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to emulsify
- Season dressing with salt and pepper
- Arrange spinach in bowl and top with strawberries, feta, pecans, and onion
- Drizzle with dressing just before serving
Notes
Final Thoughts
There you have it – the ultimate strawberry spinach salad that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve. Whether you’re meal prepping or hosting friends, this recipe delivers fresh flavors in every bite.
Made this recipe? Contact me on [email protected] – I love seeing your creations! Now who’s ready for the easiest, tastiest salad of their life?