Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad

Name: Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 5 cups fresh baby spinach; 2 cups strawberries, sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light & Balanced

I absolutely love whipping up a Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad, especially during the warm months when strawberries are at their sweetest. The vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it a perfect side dish or light meal. With a simple homemade dressing, I can transform fresh spinach and juicy strawberries into a delightful plate that bursts with flavor. Each bite is a celebration of freshness, and I love how easy it is to prepare. This salad is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:58:09.164Z

Creating my Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad has become a cherished ritual in my kitchen. The bright colors of the complementing ingredients never fail to lift my spirits, and it’s one of the easiest salads to throw together. I use fresh and organic strawberries, which provide a sweet burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the earthy spinach.

One important tip I've learned is to prepare the homemade vinaigrette just before serving. This way, the freshness of the dressing accentuates the salad's vibrant flavors without getting the spinach too soggy. Each forkful of this salad makes me appreciate the simple joys of fresh produce!

Why You'll Love This Salad
The perfect balance of sweetness from strawberries and the earthiness of spinach
A quick and easy recipe that's ready in just 10 minutes
Versatile enough to be served as a main dish or a side

Harnessing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is key to achieving the vibrant flavor profile of this salad. When selecting strawberries, look for ones that are bright red and glossy with a sweet aroma. These attributes indicate ripeness, ensuring a perfectly sweet contrast to the earthy spinach. Similarly, opt for baby spinach leaves that are tender and crisp; they offer a delicate texture that complements the juicy strawberries beautifully.

It's also worth noting the role of red onion in this salad. The thinly sliced onion adds a zesty crunch without overpowering other flavors. If you prefer a milder taste, soak the sliced onions in cold water for about ten minutes before adding them to the salad; this technique reduces their sharpness, making them more palatable.

Dressing with Purpose

The dressing is where you can truly elevate the salad's flavor. By whisking together balsamic vinegar and olive oil, you create a tangy and rich base that balances the sweetness of the strawberries. A common pitfall is using balsamic vinegar that is too viscous; make sure to choose a quality vinegar that pours easily, as this will help it blend smoothly into the salad without leaving clumps.

For those who want to tweak the dressing, honey or maple syrup can be added for extra sweetness or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Each variation can completely transform the profile of the salad while still showcasing the star ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a vibrant salad.

Ingredients

5 cups fresh baby spinach
2 cups strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients will create a flavorful dish bursting with freshness.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad.

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, and red onion. Toss them gently together to mix.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad, then sprinkle the toasted walnuts and crumbled feta on top. Give it a gentle toss before serving.

Enjoy your fresh and vibrant salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to experiment with nuts or cheese. Almonds or goat cheese can also work beautifully. Remember to keep the ingredients as fresh as possible for the best taste.

Making It Ahead

This Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad is ideal for meal prep. You can wash and slice the strawberries and onions a few hours in advance. Just keep them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. If you prepare the dressing ahead, store it separately and add it just before serving to avoid soggy spinach.

When making this salad in advance, consider holding off on adding toasted walnuts and feta until serving. This ensures that the walnuts stay crunchy and the feta maintains its crumbly texture, providing pleasant contrasts to the other ingredients.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This salad can serve as a refreshing side to grilled meats, making it a perfect accompaniment for summer barbecues. For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp on top, providing protein that complements the fresh ingredients beautifully.

Feel free to personalize the salad further by incorporating seasonal fruits like blueberries or peaches. Also, if you're looking to add some extra crunch, consider including ingredients like toasted pecans or sunflower seeds, which blend well with the existing flavors of the salad while adding a delightful texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to make the salad right before serving to keep the spinach fresh. You can prepare the ingredients and dressing in advance, then combine them just before serving.

→ How can I add protein to this salad?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would be a great addition for protein. Just toss them in along with the other ingredients.

→ Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese option. The rest of the ingredients are all plant-based.

→ What other fruits can I add?

Feel free to experiment with other berries, apples, or even citrus segments for added flavor and sweetness.