Catch the juicy sweetness of ripe strawberries mingling with fresh, crisp spinach in this delightful Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad. Imagine biting into a succulent strawberry while the crunchy nuts provide a satisfying contrast. This dish isn’t just a salad; it’s a celebration of flavor that dances on your taste buds.
Picture this: It’s a sunny afternoon picnic with laughter echoing around as friends gather around a table filled with delicious food. This salad has been the star of many such occasions in my life, always stealing the show with its vibrant colors and refreshing taste. Every time I serve it, I can hear the oohs and ahhs as people dive in. Trust me; you don’t want to miss out on this flavor explosion!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This classic strawberry spinach salad is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion
- The combination of sweet strawberries and hearty spinach creates a delightful contrast
- It’s visually stunning with vibrant colors that brighten up any table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with various proteins or stand alone as a light meal
When I first made this salad for my family barbecue, everyone’s faces lit up with joy! The kids couldn’t get enough of those juicy strawberries.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Baby Spinach: Choose tender leaves for a mild flavor that complements the sweetness of strawberries.
- Ripe Strawberries: Opt for plump berries that are bright red to ensure maximum sweetness.
- Slivered Almonds: These add a delightful crunch; toast them lightly for an enhanced nutty flavor.
- Red Onion: Use thin slices for a sharp contrast; soaking them in water can tone down their bite.
- Feta Cheese (optional): Crumbled feta brings creaminess and tanginess; feel free to skip if you prefer dairy-free.
For the Dressing:
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavors beautifully.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a sweet tang; replace with apple cider vinegar if desired.
- Honey: A touch of honey balances acidity; adjust according to your preference for sweetness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all flavors—don’t skip these!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Gather Your Ingredients: Start by collecting all ingredients listed above to ensure you have everything ready at hand.
Prepare the Spinach: Rinse fresh baby spinach under cold water and gently pat dry. Place it in a large bowl as your base.
Slicing Strawberries: Hull your strawberries and slice them into halves or quarters depending on their size. Toss them delicately into the bowl.
Add Onions and Nuts: Thinly slice red onion and sprinkle it over the spinach along with slivered almonds. Feel free to toast those almonds first for extra flavor.
Create the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Toss Everything Together: Drizzle your dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are coated evenly. Serve immediately for best flavor!
Now you have an amazing Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad ready to dazzle at your next gathering! Enjoy every bite of this colorful creation packed with nutrients.
You Must Know
- Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad is a refreshing dish that balances sweetness and earthiness
- The vibrant colors and crisp textures bring joy to any meal
- Perfect for summer picnics or a light dinner, this salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by washing and drying the spinach leaves, then slice the strawberries just before serving to keep them fresh. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl for easy tossing.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add nuts for crunch, cheese for creaminess, or even swap spinach for kale. Your creativity can elevate this salad to new heights!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid reheating; enjoy it cold and fresh!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always wash your spinach thoroughly because dirt loves to hide in those leafy greens!
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor, and don’t be afraid to experiment with dressings; a balsamic vinaigrette works wonders too
Sharing my first attempt at making Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad reminds me of my friend’s delighted face when she first tasted it; she insisted I cater her birthday party afterward.
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries for Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad?
Yes, but fresh strawberries will provide better texture and flavor.
What dressing goes best with this salad?
A light balsamic vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully.
How do I prevent the spinach from wilting?
Mix the dressing just before serving to keep spinach crisp and fresh.
Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Enjoy a vibrant Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad, bursting with sweet strawberries, crunchy almonds, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for picnics or as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
- Fresh baby spinach
- Ripe strawberries
- Slivered almonds
- Red onion
- Feta cheese (optional)
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Honey
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Rinse and pat dry the spinach, placing it in a large bowl.
- Hull and slice strawberries; add to the bowl.
- Thinly slice red onion and sprinkle over the spinach along with slivered almonds.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
- Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Toast almonds for extra flavor.
- Feel free to substitute kale for spinach or add grilled chicken for protein.
- Mix dressing just before serving to keep the spinach crisp.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 6mg