Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe

This delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. With a combination of fresh, juicy strawberries, crispy spinach, crunchy candied pecans, and tangy feta cheese, it's a feast for the senses. The homemade balsamic vinaigrette adds a zingy finish that brings all the elements together. It's a refreshing side dish or light lunch that's sure to impress.

Photos of Strawberry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe

Most ingredients for this recipe are likely already in your pantry or easily found at your local supermarket. However, if you don't usually stock feta cheese or pecans, you'll want to add them to your shopping list. Feta is a crumbly, tangy cheese that adds a lovely contrast to the sweet strawberries and pecans. Pecans, on the other hand, have a buttery flavor and crunchy texture that brings a delightful crunch to the salad.

Ingredients for the Strawberry Spinach Salad

Spinach: It's a superfood loaded with tons of nutrients in a low-calorie package. It provides the necessary crunch and freshness to the salad.

Strawberries: These add a sweet and tangy flavor, making the salad more refreshing and appetizing. Fresh strawberries are the best choice for this.

Feta cheese: This brings a salty and tangy flavor to the salad which perfectly balances out the sweetness of the strawberries.

Red onion: The sharpness and crunchiness of red onion complement the overall salad taste.

Pecans: These are used for their rich, buttery flavor, and they add a nice crunch to the salad.

Balsamic vinegar: This is used in the vinaigrette and it gives the salad a sweet and sour taste.

Olive oil: It's used in the vinaigrette, giving the salad richness and depth of flavor.

Dijon Mustard: This helps emulsify the vinaigrette and adds a tangy kick to it.

Honey: A natural sweetener, it balances out the tangy and savory elements in the salad.

Brown sugar and butter: They're used to candy the pecans, giving them a sweet, caramel-like crunchiness.

One reader, Dix James says:

This strawberry spinach salad is a game-changer! The combination of sweet strawberries, crunchy pecans, and tangy feta with the balsamic vinaigrette is a flavor explosion. It's a refreshing and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. I highly recommend it!

Dix James

Essential Techniques for Crafting a Perfect Spinach Salad

How to prepare vinaigrette: Boil balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat for about 3 minutes until reduced by half. Then, pour it into a jar or bowl, add olive oil, dijon mustard, honey, and whisk to blend while seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Thin with a little water if desired. Set aside.

How to make candied pecans: In a small non-stick skillet, cook pecans, brown sugar, and butter over medium heat for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly until the sugar starts to melt and caramelize. Transfer the pecans to a plate in a single layer to cool.

How to assemble the salad: In a salad bowl, toss together the spinach, strawberries, half of the feta, red onion, and candied pecans. Drizzle about ⅓ of the dressing over the salad, then plate and drizzle the remaining dressing over individual portions and top with the remaining half of the feta. Serve immediately.

How To Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Summer dining calls for bright and fresh flavors, and this spinach salad has them all. Full of strawberries, it can be a light lunch or a dinner side.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Vinaigrette:

½cupbalsamic vinegar
½cupolive oil
1tbspdijon mustard
1tbsphoney
salt and freshly ground black pepper

For Candied Pecans:

¾cuppecans,broken or roughly chopped
1½tbspbrown sugar
½tbspbutter

For Salad:

10ozbaby spinach
1lbfresh strawberries,hulled and sliced
5ozfeta cheese,crumbled
⅓smallred onion,thinly sliced

Instructions

Vinaigrette:

Add vinegar to a small saucepan, bring to a boil over medium heat and allow to boil for about 3 minutes until reduced by half. Pour into a jar or bowl, add olive oil, dijon mustard, honey and whisk to blend while seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Thin with a little water if desired. Set aside.

Candied Pecans:

Add pecans, brown sugar and butter to a small non-stick skillet and cook over medium-heat for abut 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly until sugar starts to melt and caramelize. Transfer to a plate in a single layer to cool.

Salad:

In a salad bowl toss together spinach, strawberries, half of the feta, red onion and pecans.
Drizzle about ⅓ of the dressing over salad then plate and drizzle remaining dressing over individual portions and top with remaining half of the feta. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 393.20kcal
Fat: 33.42g
Saturated Fat: 7.45g
Trans Fat: 0.04g
Monounsaturated Fat: 19.62g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.97g
Carbohydrates: 19.85g
Fiber: 4.08g
Sugar: 13.80g
Protein: 6.68g
Cholesterol: 23.57mg
Sodium: 493.38mg
Calcium: 197.76mg
Potassium: 491.89mg
Iron: 2.46mg
Vitamin A: 260.65µg
Vitamin C: 58.18mg

Pro Tip for Enhancing the Flavors in This Spinach Salad

When making the candied pecans, it's crucial to keep a close eye on them as they cook. The sugar can go from caramelized to burnt very quickly. To prevent this, stir the pecans constantly and remove them from the heat as soon as the sugar has melted and coated the pecans evenly. This will ensure your pecans have a sweet, crunchy coating without any bitter burnt taste.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans, Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Prep ahead: Wash and dry the spinach and strawberries in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to save time when assembling the salad.

Use store-bought candied pecans: To save time, consider purchasing pre-made candied pecans instead of making them from scratch. This will cut down on prep time and make the recipe even quicker to prepare.

Multi-task: While the balsamic vinegar is reducing, you can prepare the other components of the salad to save time and be more efficient in the kitchen.

Invest in a good salad spinner: A salad spinner can help you quickly and efficiently dry the spinach, saving time and ensuring that the salad ingredients are ready to use.

Pre-cut ingredients: Consider purchasing pre-cut or pre-sliced strawberries and onions to save time on prep work. This can be a convenient time-saver for busy cooks.

Substitute Ingredients For Strawberry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe

balsamic vinegar - Substitute with red wine vinegar: Red wine vinegar has a similar tangy flavor that can work well in place of balsamic vinegar in the vinaigrette.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in the vinaigrette.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard can provide a similar tang and texture to dijon mustard in the vinaigrette.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a touch of sweetness similar to honey in the vinaigrette.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts can provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor to pecans in the candied pecans.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple sugar: Maple sugar can offer a similar sweetness and caramelization to brown sugar in the candied pecans.
baby spinach - Substitute with arugula: Arugula can provide a peppery and slightly bitter flavor similar to baby spinach in the salad.
fresh strawberries - Substitute with raspberries: Raspberries can offer a tart and sweet flavor similar to strawberries in the salad.
feta cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese can provide a tangy and creamy texture similar to feta cheese in the salad.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can offer a milder and sweeter flavor similar to red onion in the salad.

How to Beautifully Present This Strawberry Spinach Salad

Elevate the salad with a stunning presentation: As a chef, it's essential to create a visually appealing dish. Arrange the vibrant baby spinach and fresh strawberries in an artful manner on the plate to showcase the colors and textures of the ingredients.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Introduce a variety of textures to the dish by adding the crunchy candied pecans and creamy feta cheese. This will provide a delightful contrast and elevate the overall dining experience.
Balance the flavors: Ensure that each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors. The sweetness of the strawberries, the tanginess of the balsamic vinaigrette, the saltiness of the feta, and the nuttiness of the pecans should all come together in perfect balance.
Pay attention to the plate: Use high-quality, elegant plates to serve the salad. The choice of plate can enhance the overall presentation and elevate the dining experience for the guests.
Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing the salad with delicate edible flowers or vibrant microgreens. This not only adds a pop of color but also showcases attention to detail.
Emphasize the dressing: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad with precision. The dressing should be evenly distributed, enhancing the flavors of the salad without overwhelming the other components.
Consider the placement of ingredients: Strategically place the feta, red onions, and candied pecans throughout the salad to ensure that each bite offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Use high-quality ingredients: As a top chef, it's crucial to use the freshest and finest ingredients available. Opt for locally sourced, organic produce and premium feta cheese to elevate the overall quality of the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Delightful Spinach Salad

Small saucepan: A small, narrow saucepan is ideal for reducing the balsamic vinegar for the vinaigrette.
Whisk: A whisk is necessary for blending the vinaigrette ingredients together to create a smooth and well-combined dressing.
Small non-stick skillet: This skillet is perfect for candying the pecans as it ensures even heat distribution and prevents the pecans from sticking.
Salad bowl: A large salad bowl is essential for tossing and mixing the salad ingredients together.
Plate: A plate is used to cool the candied pecans in a single layer, preventing them from sticking together.

Interesting Trivia About Strawberry Spinach Salad

The strawberry spinach salad with candied pecans, feta, and balsamic vinaigrette is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. It's a perfect dish for a summer gathering or a light lunch. The balsamic vinaigrette adds a tangy kick to the salad, complementing the sweetness of the strawberries and the nuttiness of the pecans. Additionally, the feta cheese provides a creamy and slightly salty element to the dish. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Is Making This Spinach Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This strawberry spinach salad with candied pecans, feta and balsamic vinaigrette is a cost-effective option for a household. The ingredients, such as spinach, strawberries, and pecans, are generally affordable and readily available. The use of seasonal produce can further reduce the overall cost. The addition of feta cheese and balsamic vinegar may slightly increase the cost, but these ingredients are versatile and can be used in various other dishes. Overall Verdict: 9/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-$20.

Is This Spinach Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

This strawberry spinach salad recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and nutrients. The spinach provides a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Strawberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system. The inclusion of feta cheese adds a tangy flavor and a small amount of protein and calcium. However, the candied pecans and balsamic vinaigrette may be areas of concern for those watching their sugar and calorie intake.

To make this salad even healthier, consider these suggestions:

Reduce the amount of brown sugar used in the candied pecans or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Use a lighter vinaigrette made with less oil and more balsamic vinegar, or opt for a low-fat dressing alternative
Add more nutrient-dense ingredients such as sliced almonds, grilled chicken, or quinoa to increase the protein and fiber content
Experiment with different types of greens, such as kale or arugula, to vary the nutritional profile and flavor of the salad

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Spinach Salad Recipe

The combination of sweet strawberries, earthy spinach, tangy feta, and crunchy candied pecans creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures in this salad. The balsamic vinaigrette adds a perfect touch of acidity and sweetness to tie everything together. The reduction of the balsamic vinegar adds depth to the dressing, while the candied pecans provide a satisfying crunch. The overall presentation and taste of this salad make it a refreshing and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion.

Enhance Your Strawberry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Infuse the mashed potatoes with roasted garlic for a rich and savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the tanginess of the feta.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: The smoky char from grilling adds depth to the asparagus, while the bright citrusy flavor from the lemon zest brings a refreshing contrast to the salad.

Balsamic Glazed Chicken Skewers: The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze on the chicken skewers pairs perfectly with the balsamic vinaigrette in the salad, creating a cohesive flavor profile across the entire meal.

Similar Salad Recipes to Try

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a flavorful herb and garlic mixture before grilling to perfection on skewers.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Combine ripe mango, creamy avocado, and a zesty lime dressing for a refreshing and colorful salsa.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken: Coat the chicken in a tangy lemon garlic marinade before roasting to juicy perfection in the oven.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Simmer ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil in a creamy broth for a comforting and satisfying soup.

Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins: Mix ripe bananas and chocolate chips into a moist and delicious muffin batter for a sweet treat.

Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with This Spinach Salad

Main Courses:

Beef Wellington: Impress your guests with a classic Beef Wellington, featuring a perfectly seared beef tenderloin wrapped in flaky puff pastry. The rich mushroom duxelles adds depth of flavor, making this dish a showstopper for any special occasion.

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy and comforting Chicken Alfredo, with tender pieces of chicken and al dente fettuccine coated in a luscious parmesan cream sauce. This Italian favorite is sure to satisfy any pasta lover's cravings.

Desserts:

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 and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of apple crisp, with tender baked apples, a crispy oat topping, and a hint of cinnamon. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.

Why trust this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of fresh strawberries, nutrient-rich spinach, and the savory goodness of feta cheese. The balsamic vinaigrette adds a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors, while the candied pecans provide a satisfying crunch. With carefully selected ingredients like balsamic vinegar and dijon mustard, this recipe promises a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the thoughtful preparation to create a memorable and delicious salad experience.

Want to share your experience making this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of nut for the candied pecans?

Yes, you can use different types of nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or even cashews to make candied nuts for the salad. Feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts to add a unique flavor and texture to the dish.

Can I make the vinaigrette in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the vinaigrette ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake before using it to ensure all the ingredients are well combined.

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

Certainly! If you're not a fan of feta cheese, you can substitute it with goat cheese, blue cheese, or even fresh mozzarella. Each cheese will bring its own distinct flavor to the salad, so choose one that you enjoy.

Can I prepare the candied pecans in larger batches and store them for later use?

Yes, you can definitely prepare a larger batch of candied pecans and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They make a delicious snack on their own or a great addition to other salads and dishes.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the salad to prevent excess moisture.