Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Gorgeous summer strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. With fresh strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy nuts, this salad is perfect for lunch or as a side dish at your next gathering. The vibrant colors and textures make it a standout option for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic in the park or a dinner party at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: This salad uses fresh, organic spinach and ripe strawberries, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 22 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main dish or side, this salad pairs well with various proteins like chicken or turkey.
• Flavorful Vinaigrette: The strawberry balsamic vinaigrette adds a sweet and tangy kick that elevates the entire dish.
• Nutty Crunch: Toasted almonds and pistachios provide a satisfying crunch that complements the soft textures of the avocado and feta.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help you prepare the salad efficiently and ensure everything is mixed perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar or small bowl
• Non-stick pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar or small bowl: Perfect for mixing the dressing; it allows easy shaking to combine all ingredients well.
• Non-stick pan: Ideal for toasting nuts without sticking and burning, ensuring they stay crisp.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to toss all the salad ingredients together without spilling.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 package (5 ounces) organic spinach
• 8 ounces strawberries, halved (about 2 cups halved strawberries)
• 1 large avocado, sliced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup feta cheese
• ⅓ cup raw sliced almonds
• ¼ cup chopped shelled roasted pistachios

For the Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, grated or finely minced
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ tablespoon strawberry jam (or jam of choice)
• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Step 1: Make the Vinaigrette

1. In a mason jar or small bowl, add all of the dressing ingredients.
2. Shake or mix well to combine. Taste and adjust salt/pepper as needed.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

1. Add the almonds to a non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Stir occasionally for 2-5 minutes until slightly golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the spinach as your base layer.
2. Layer on the strawberries, avocado slices, red onion, feta cheese, toasted almonds, and chopped pistachios.
3. You can either drizzle some dressing on top now or serve it separately for individual servings.

This delightful strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is sure to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy its sweet-tangy flavor profile while reaping its healthy benefits!

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

This strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a lunch or looking for a refreshing side for dinner, this salad will elevate your meal.

As a Standalone Lunch

• Enjoy the salad on its own for a light and nutritious lunch. The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy avocado makes it satisfying.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken breast for added protein. The savory flavor of the chicken complements the sweetness of the strawberries perfectly.

As a Side Dish for Dinner

• Serve this salad alongside your favorite main dishes, like roasted turkey or beef steak. It adds a vibrant touch to any dinner plate.

At Picnics or Potlucks

• Bring this salad to picnics or potlucks. Its colorful presentation and delicious flavors will impress your friends and family.

In Individual Bowls

• Portion the salad into individual bowls for an elegant touch. This method allows guests to enjoy their own servings with a drizzle of dressing on top.

How to Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

To enhance your strawberry spinach salad, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure every bite is delicious and satisfying.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh, organic spinach and ripe strawberries. This makes a big difference in flavor and texture.

• Toast Your Nuts: Toasting almonds adds depth and crunch to your salad. Just 2-5 minutes over medium heat will elevate their flavor significantly.

• Make Dressing Ahead: Prepare your strawberry balsamic vinaigrette in advance. Letting it sit allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

• Consider Textures: Mix different textures by adding crispy elements like toasted nuts or even crunchy vegetables like cucumbers. This variety keeps each bite interesting.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

If you’re looking to create a complete meal around your strawberry spinach salad, consider these tasty side dishes. Each option pairs well and enhances the overall dining experience.

1. Grilled Chicken Breast – Marinate and grill chicken breasts for a flavorful addition that complements the fruity salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – A fluffy quinoa pilaf with herbs adds heartiness while being gluten-free, making it perfect alongside the salad.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini or bell peppers provide warmth and extra nutrients.
4. Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread is a great contrast to the freshness of the salad; serve warm for best results.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers – These can be filled with rice, beans, and spices, offering a filling option that pairs wonderfully.
6. Cheesy Cauliflower Bake – A creamy baked cauliflower dish adds richness without overpowering the lightness of the salad.
7. Cucumber Tomato Salad – A refreshing cucumber tomato salad brings extra crunch and hydration, making it an ideal companion.
8. Herbed Couscous – Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs provides a light grain option that complements both flavors and textures well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic, it’s easy to overlook a few important details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using stale ingredients: Freshness matters! Always use fresh spinach and strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
• Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can overwhelm the salad. Start with a little and add more if needed, allowing the flavors to shine through.
• Not toasting the nuts: Toasting almonds enhances their flavor. Take a moment to toast them for an extra crunch that elevates your dish.
• Skipping the seasoning: Salt and pepper enhance the vinaigrette’s taste. Don’t forget to season your dressing before serving!
• Cutting fruits too early: Preparing strawberries or avocado too soon may lead to browning. Slice them right before serving for optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crispness.

Freezing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to its fresh ingredients.
• However, you can freeze individual components like toasted almonds or vinaigrette separately.

Reheating Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Spread salad on a baking sheet, heat for about 5 minutes, then serve immediately.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl; heat in 30-second intervals until slightly warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat just until warmed through, stirring gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic:

Can I prepare the Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep most ingredients ahead but keep the dressing separate until serving for best results.

What can I substitute for feta cheese in this recipe?

You can use crumbled goat cheese or even a dairy-free feta alternative if preferred.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit feta cheese and use a plant-based gelling agent in any dressings if needed.

Can I add other fruits to my salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other berries like blueberries or raspberries for additional flavor and color.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is not only vibrant but also packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s perfect as a light lunch or an easy side dish at dinner. Customize it further by adding your favorite nuts or fruits, making it versatile enough for any occasion!