Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad Recipe

This Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad recipe is a delightful mix of crunchy, sweet, and tangy flavors. It's perfect for summer gatherings or even as a refreshing everyday salad. The combination of fresh strawberries, baby spinach, almonds, ramen, and a honey red wine vinaigrette creates a salad that's satisfying and bursting with flavor.

Photos of Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe may not be staples in every household. Ramen can be found in the Asian section of most supermarkets, while goat cheese is usually located in the dairy or cheese section. If you can't find fresh strawberries, frozen ones can be a good substitute. Lastly, red wine vinegar is usually located in the vinegar or salad dressing aisle.

Ingredients for Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad

Almond: These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the salad.

Ramen: This adds an unexpected but satisfying crunch to the salad.

Baby spinach: A nutritious green that forms the base of the salad.

Fresh strawberries: They add a sweet, juicy element to the salad.

Green onions: Gives a mild onion flavor which balances the sweetness of the strawberries.

Goat cheese: Brings a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Honey: Sweetens the vinaigrette.

Red wine vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor to the vinaigrette.

Olive oil: Makes the base of the vinaigrette, adding a smooth texture.

Dijon mustard: Brings a sharp, tangy flavor to the vinaigrette.

Garlic: Adds a depth of flavor to the vinaigrette.

Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the salad.

One reader, Jocelin Marek says:

This strawberry crunch spinach salad recipe is a game-changer! The combination of fresh strawberries, crunchy almonds, and tangy goat cheese is simply divine. The honey red wine vinaigrette ties it all together perfectly. It's a refreshing and satisfying salad that's become a family favorite. Highly recommended!

Jocelin Marek

Techniques Required for Making Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad

How to prepare the honey red wine vinaigrette: Combine honey, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and garlic in a mason jar. Seal with a lid and shake well to blend the ingredients. Chill the dressing to allow the flavors to meld while preparing the salad.

How to toast almonds and ramen: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Spread the almonds on one side of a rimmed baking sheet and break the ramen into small pieces onto the opposite side of the baking sheet. Toast in the preheated oven for about 5 to 9 minutes, or until the almonds are golden brown, tossing once halfway through. Let the almonds and ramen cool before using them in the salad.

How To Make Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad

Crunchy ramen noodles set this spinach salad apart from the rest. The fresh strawberries & tangy red wine vinaigrette complete the summer vibe of this dish.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Salad:

½cupalmond,sliced
2pkgramen,(3 oz), seasoning discarded
10ozbaby spinach
1lbfresh strawberries,hulled and sliced
¾cupgreen onions,sliced, green portion only
4ozgoat cheese,crumbled

For Honey Red Wine Vinaigrette:

⅓cuphoney
⅓cupred wine vinegar
⅓cupolive oil
1tspdijon mustard
1clovegarlic,minced
⅛tspsalt

Instructions

Dressing:

Combine all dressing ingredients in a mason jar. Seal with lid then shake to blend well. Chill and allow flavors to meld while preparing salad.

Salad:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Spread almonds onto one side of a rimmed baking sheet then break ramen into small pieces onto opposite side of baking sheet.
Toast in preheated oven for about 5 to 9 minutes, until almonds are golden brown, tossing once halfway through. Let cool.
In a salad bowl gently toss together spinach, strawberries, green onions, almonds, and ramen. Add goat cheese and give it another light toss.
Pour dressing over top and serve immediately after adding dressing (or plate and add dressing to individual portions).

Nutrition

Calories: 449.72kcal
Fat: 27.38g
Saturated Fat: 7.21g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 15.23g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.66g
Carbohydrates: 43.85g
Fiber: 5.27g
Sugar: 20.74g
Protein: 11.11g
Cholesterol: 8.69mg
Sodium: 663.88mg
Calcium: 135.81mg
Potassium: 575.73mg
Iron: 3.97mg
Vitamin A: 283.36µg
Vitamin C: 60.48mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad

When toasting the almonds and ramen for the salad, keep a close eye on them as they can easily burn due to their small size. Stir them halfway through to ensure even toasting. This will not only enhance their flavor but also their crunch, adding a delightful texture to your salad.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad

Prep ahead: Wash and chop the spinach, strawberries, and green onions in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to save time on the day of making the salad.

Efficient assembly: Organize all the ingredients and tools needed for the recipe before you start. This will help streamline the cooking process and minimize any last-minute scrambling for items.

Substitute Ingredients For Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad Recipe

ramen - Substitute with soba noodles: Soba noodles can provide a nutty flavor and a firmer texture, adding a unique twist to the salad.
baby spinach - Substitute with arugula: Arugula offers a peppery bite and a slightly bitter flavor, complementing the sweetness of the strawberries and the crunch of the almonds.
fresh strawberries - Substitute with raspberries: Raspberries can provide a similar tartness and juiciness, adding a vibrant burst of flavor to the salad.
goat cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese offers a tangy and salty flavor, which pairs well with the sweetness of the strawberries and the crunch of the almonds.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a rich, earthy sweetness to the vinaigrette, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the salad.
red wine vinegar - Substitute with balsamic vinegar: Balsamic vinegar can provide a deeper, sweeter flavor with hints of fruitiness, elevating the complexity of the vinaigrette.

Best Way to Present a Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad

Elevate the plating: Carefully arrange the baby spinach, strawberries, and green onions in an artful and visually appealing manner on the plate. The presentation should be clean, balanced, and visually striking.
Incorporate texture: Introduce a textural element by sprinkling the toasted almonds and ramen pieces strategically around the salad. This adds a delightful crunch and visual interest to the dish.
Highlight the strawberries: Showcase the vibrant and fresh strawberries as a focal point of the dish. Slice them elegantly and position them to draw attention and add a pop of color to the plate.
Artful drizzling of dressing: Use a steady hand to drizzle the honey red wine vinaigrette over the salad in a graceful and deliberate manner. The dressing should be evenly distributed, enhancing the flavors and appearance of the dish.
Garnish with goat cheese: Crumble the goat cheese over the salad with precision, ensuring that it is evenly distributed. This adds a creamy and tangy element to the presentation.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the overall presentation, ensuring that every component of the salad is thoughtfully placed and contributes to the visual appeal of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making a Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for quickly preparing salad dressings, chopping nuts, or making fruit purees for dressings or sauces.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the salad ingredients and tossing them together with the dressing. It's best to use a large mixing bowl to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Rimmed baking sheet: A rimmed baking sheet is used for toasting the almonds and ramen in the oven. The rim helps to contain the ingredients and prevent them from spilling over while toasting.
Mason jar: A mason jar is used for preparing and storing the honey red wine vinaigrette. It allows you to easily mix the ingredients by shaking the jar and can be sealed with a lid for storing any leftover dressing in the refrigerator.

Random Fact About Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad

The strawberry crunch spinach salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. It's a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements, making it a versatile and satisfying dish. The honey red wine vinaigrette adds a tangy and sweet note to the salad, enhancing its overall taste. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, as spinach is a great source of vitamins and minerals. It's a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet while enjoying a delicious meal.

Is Making Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad at Home Economical?

This strawberry crunch spinach salad recipe offers a good balance of cost-effectiveness. The main ingredients, such as spinach, strawberries, and ramen noodles, are generally affordable and readily available. However, the use of goat cheese and almonds may slightly elevate the overall cost. Considering the nutritional value and flavor profile, this recipe earns a solid 8/10 rating. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it a reasonably budget-friendly option for a fresh and vibrant salad.

Is This Spinach Salad Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This strawberry crunch spinach salad recipe is a delightful mix of healthy and indulgent ingredients. Let's break it down:

Healthy components:

Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
Strawberries provide a good source of vitamin C and fiber
Almonds offer healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E
Olive oil in the dressing is a heart-healthy monounsaturated fat

Less healthy aspects:

Ramen noodles are typically high in sodium and processed carbohydrates
Goat cheese, while delicious, is a source of saturated fat and calories
Honey in the dressing adds natural sugar and calories

To elevate the nutritional value of this salad, consider these tweaks:

Swap the ramen noodles for a whole grain alternative like quinoa or farro for added fiber and protein
Reduce the amount of goat cheese or opt for a lower-fat variety to minimize saturated fat intake
Use a light hand when dressing the salad to control calorie and sugar content
Add more colorful vegetables like shredded carrots, bell peppers, or purple cabbage to boost the salad's vitamin and antioxidant profile
Experiment with different nuts or seeds, such as walnuts or pumpkin seeds, for variety and added nutrients

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Spinach Salad Recipe

The combination of fresh baby spinach, sweet strawberries, and crunchy almonds and ramen creates a delightful texture and flavor profile in this salad. The honey red wine vinaigrette adds a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. The addition of goat cheese provides a creamy and tangy element that complements the other ingredients. Overall, this strawberry crunch spinach salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer meal.

Enhance Your Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and topped with a savory garlic parmesan crust.

Balsamic Glazed Grilled Peaches: Juicy grilled peaches drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, the perfect complement to the strawberry crunch spinach salad.

Savory Herb Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these herb-roasted potatoes are seasoned to perfection and make a delicious side dish for any meal.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, carrots, potatoes, and a rich, flavorful broth. It's the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.

Citrus Grilled Chicken: Marinated in a zesty blend of citrus juices and spices, this grilled chicken is bursting with flavor. It's a refreshing and light dish that's perfect for a summer barbecue.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Creamy coconut milk, sweet mango chunks, and nutritious chia seeds come together to create a delicious and healthy pudding. It's a satisfying dessert or breakfast option that's full of tropical flavors.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these delectable savory stuffed mushrooms. Filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs, these bite-sized appetizers are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: These crispy zucchini fritters are the perfect way to start off any meal. Lightly fried to golden perfection, these fritters are packed with flavor and make for a delightful appetizer option.

Desserts:

Decadent Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Tangy Lemon Tart: Savor the tangy and refreshing flavor of a lemon tart, with a buttery and flaky crust. The zesty lemon filling is perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness, creating a delightful dessert that is both light and satisfying.

Why trust this Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of fresh strawberries, crunchy almonds, and nutritious spinach, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The addition of creamy goat cheese and a homemade honey red wine vinaigrette elevates the dish to a gourmet level. The use of high-quality ingredients such as fresh strawberries and baby spinach ensures a vibrant and wholesome salad experience. The meticulous attention to detail in the preparation of the honey red wine vinaigrette showcases the dedication to providing a well-crafted and delicious recipe.

Join the conversation and share your thoughts on the Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad Recipe in the Recipe Sharing section of our forum.

FAQ:

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time, but I recommend adding the dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.

Can I substitute the goat cheese with another type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute the goat cheese with feta, blue cheese, or even shredded mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Can I use pre-packaged croutons instead of toasting the almonds and ramen?

Yes, you can use pre-packaged croutons if you're short on time, but toasting the almonds and ramen adds a delicious crunch and flavor to the salad.

How long will the honey red wine vinaigrette keep in the refrigerator?

The vinaigrette can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using it to re-emulsify the ingredients.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use thawed frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid before adding them to the salad.