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Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe with Easy Zesty Balsamic Vinaigrette

Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad - featured image
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A fresh, vibrant salad combining sweet strawberries, tender baby spinach, and a zesty homemade balsamic vinaigrette, perfect for quick meals and any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups fresh baby spinach (about 180 grams)
  • 2 cups sliced strawberries (about 300 grams)
  • 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (about 75 grams)
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped
  • Zesty Balsamic Vinaigrette:
  • 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar (80 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (30 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (5 ml)
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (120 ml)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the baby spinach under cold water and dry thoroughly using a salad spinner or pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Slice the strawberries into thin slices about 1/4 inch thick.
  3. Thinly slice the red onion into half-moons.
  4. Toast the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until fragrant, stirring often. Let cool.
  5. In a small bowl or jar, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard.
  6. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing.
  7. Season the vinaigrette with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness or acidity if needed.
  8. In a large salad bowl, combine baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and red onion.
  9. Drizzle about half the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently using salad tongs or large spoons.
  10. Add more dressing as needed, coating leaves lightly but not drenched.
  11. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and toasted nuts evenly over the top.
  12. Give the salad one last gentle toss or serve with toppings displayed on top.
  13. Serve immediately for best freshness and texture.

Notes

Dry spinach thoroughly to avoid watering down the dressing. Whisk vinaigrette slowly while adding oil for a creamy texture. Add dressing gradually to prevent soggy salad. Slice strawberries last to keep them juicy but not leaking. Store dressing separately if prepping ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry spinach salad, balsamic vinaigrette, fresh salad, healthy salad, easy salad recipe, summer salad, quick salad

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/fresh-strawberry-spinach-salad-recipe-with-easy-zesty-balsamic-vinaigrette/