Summer Salad Spinach & Strawberry – Fresh and Light
Light, refreshing salad featuring crisp spinach, juicy strawberries, crumbled feta (optional), toasted almonds, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Ready in under 15 minutes and perfect as a quick meal or side dish.
Lighten up your meals this season with this refreshing Summer Salad Spinach & Strawberry recipe! Bursting with flavor and nutrients, this salad is perfect for busy weeknights or as a delightful side dish for your summer gatherings.
Summer Salad Spinach & Strawberry
- Unique blend of spinach and strawberries offers a delightful sweet-savory contrast.
- Perfectly suited for quick meals or gatherings – ready in under 15 minutes!
- Light, nutritious, and suitable for vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie diets.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 cups ripe strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make
Start by rinsing the fresh spinach leaves thoroughly and patting them dry. In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach and the sliced strawberries. If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top, followed by the sliced almonds for a delightful crunch. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for a fresh and vibrant dish!
Tips
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- You can swap out balsamic vinaigrette for your favorite dressing!
- For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas.
Make-Ahead
This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance. Just wait to add the dressing until you’re ready to serve to keep the spinach crisp.
Storing
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the spinach will lose its crunch the longer it sits with dressing.
Freezing
This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the delicate nature of the spinach and strawberries.
Reheating
As a salad, this dish is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a delightful summer meal. It also makes a refreshing side dish at barbecues or picnics.
If you’re interested in elevating your salad preparation, consider investing in a quality salad spinner to easily wash and dry your greens!
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 cups ripe strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Rinse and dry
Rinse spinach leaves and pat dry.
Combine greens and fruit
Combine spinach and sliced strawberries in a large bowl.
Add feta and almonds (optional)
If desired, add crumbled feta cheese and sliced almonds.
Dress the salad
Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently.
Season and serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Fresh spinach works best when rinsed and dried well.
- Use feta cheese if you like; omit for a dairy-free option.
- This salad is best served immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese.
Can I prep this ahead?
Yes, wash and dry the spinach and slice the strawberries up to a day ahead; keep the dressing separate until serving.
What goes well with this salad?
Pairs nicely with grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas for extra protein.
Is feta necessary?
Feta is optional; you can omit it if you prefer a dairy-free or milder flavor.
Can I use a different dressing?
Yes, you can use any vinaigrette you like; a lemon vinaigrette would be a good alternative.
