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Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe

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Strawberry Spinach Salad combines tender baby spinach, juicy strawberries, creamy feta, crunchy pecans, and red onion with a simple homemade balsamic dressing. It is a fresh, colorful salad that comes together in about 15 minutes.

Ingredients

  • Fresh baby spinach
  • Fresh strawberries
  • Crumbled feta cheese
  • Pecans
  • Red onion
  • Avocado, optional
  • Extra-virgin olive oil
  • Balsamic vinegar
  • Honey or maple syrup
  • Dijon mustard
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Instructions

  1. Wash the spinach and strawberries thoroughly, then dry them well so excess moisture does not dilute the dressing.
  2. Remove the strawberry stems and cut the berries into halves or thin slices.
  3. Thinly slice the red onion. For a milder onion flavor, briefly soak the slices in cold water, then drain and dry thoroughly.
  4. Place the baby spinach in a large salad bowl and add the sliced strawberries and red onion.
  5. Sprinkle the crumbled feta and pecans over the salad. If using avocado, slice it and add it just before serving.
  6. Make the dressing by whisking together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  7. Drizzle a small amount of dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Add additional dressing as needed.
  8. Serve immediately while the spinach, strawberries, and toppings are fresh and crisp.

Notes

  • Dry the spinach and strawberries thoroughly after washing to help prevent a watery or soggy salad.
  • For a heartier meal, add sliced cooked grilled or roasted chicken.
  • Crumbled goat cheese can replace the feta for a softer, creamier texture.
  • Sliced or slivered almonds can replace the pecans and may be lightly toasted for additional flavor.
  • Fresh blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries can be added along with the strawberries.
  • For a nut-free variation, omit the pecans and use sunflower or pumpkin seeds if desired.
  • Add avocado immediately before serving to keep it fresh.
  • For make-ahead preparation, refrigerate the spinach, strawberries, toppings, and dressing separately and combine shortly before serving.
  • Store leftover dressing in a covered container in the refrigerator and whisk or shake it again before serving.
  • For the best texture, add the dressing immediately before serving because dressed spinach will gradually soften.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/strawberry-spinach-salad-recipe/