Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this salad because it balances sweet and savory flavors with a variety of textures — from juicy strawberries to crisp nuts and fresh spinach. It’s rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making it a perfect light lunch or side dish. The salad stores well, so you can prepare it in advance for convenient, wholesome meals on busy days.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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6 cups baby spinach, washed and dried
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1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
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1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
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1/3 cup sliced almonds or chopped pecans
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1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
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1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette or dressing of choice
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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In a large bowl, combine baby spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, and nuts.
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Add the crumbled feta cheese if using.
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Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently to coat evenly.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Divide the salad into individual airtight containers for meal prep.
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Keep the dressing separate if packing for later to maintain freshness, then toss just before serving.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes roughly 15 minutes to prepare.
Variations
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Substitute strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries.
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Swap feta cheese with goat cheese or omit for a dairy-free version.
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Add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for added protein.
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Use walnuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds instead of almonds or pecans.
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Try a honey mustard or lemon vinaigrette in place of balsamic for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the salad chilled and add dressing just before serving. This salad is best enjoyed cold and is not meant for reheating.
FAQs
Can I prepare this salad entirely in advance?
Yes, but keep the dressing separate and add it just before eating to avoid sogginess.
How long do strawberries stay fresh in the salad?
When stored properly in the fridge, strawberries in the salad stay fresh for about 2–3 days.
Can I use baby kale instead of spinach?
Absolutely, baby kale is a great alternative with a slightly stronger flavor.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended as the fresh ingredients will lose texture.
How can I make this salad more filling?
Add a source of protein like grilled chicken, tofu, or beans.
Can I substitute the nuts with seeds?
Yes, sunflower or pumpkin seeds are excellent alternatives.
What dressing pairs best with this salad?
Balsamic vinaigrette is classic, but lemon vinaigrette or honey mustard also work well.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.
How do I keep the salad from wilting during meal prep?
Store the salad and dressing separately and keep the salad in airtight containers in the fridge.
Conclusion
The Spinach & Strawberry Meal-Prep Salad is a simple, flavorful, and healthy option that makes eating well easy and convenient. With a perfect balance of sweet fruit, crunchy nuts, and fresh greens, it’s ideal for busy lifestyles and anyone looking to enjoy vibrant meals throughout the week. Easy to customize and quick to assemble, this salad is sure to become a staple in your meal prep routine.