Springtime in our house always meant the start of salad season. My grandmother used to say, “When the strawberries are sweet and the spinach is tender, that’s when you know it’s time.” This Strawberry Spinach Salad recipe is one of her seasonal staples that I’ve come to cherish—and now, I’m so excited to share it with you.
This salad isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration of spring’s first harvest. Juicy strawberries, crisp spinach, crunchy pecans, and a tangy-sweet dressing come together in a perfect melody of flavor and texture. It’s light yet satisfying, packed with nutrients, and ready in just 10 minutes—no cooking required.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, enjoying a picnic, or looking for a quick weekday lunch, this vibrant salad fits the bill beautifully.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Quick & Easy: Ready in 10 minutes, no stove required.
- Fresh & Flavorful: Bursting with the sweetness of ripe strawberries and the earthiness of spinach.
- Nutritious: Low in calories, high in vitamins and fiber.
- Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or a light main course.
- Spring-Inspired: Celebrates the season’s freshest ingredients.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 6 cups baby spinach leaves, washed and dried
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup candied pecans or walnuts (or plain if preferred)
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional but highly recommended)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How To Make This Strawberry Spinach Salad
Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Shake or stir well until emulsified.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
Place the baby spinach in a large bowl. Layer the strawberries, red onion, feta cheese, nuts, and avocado slices over the top.
Step 3: Dress and Toss
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Gently toss to combine and coat the ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Serve
Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant taste of spring in every bite!
Ingredient Tips & Swaps
- Greens: Baby arugula or mixed greens can replace spinach for a peppery twist.
- Cheese: Goat cheese or blue cheese work wonderfully in place of feta.
- Nuts: Try toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for different crunch profiles.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a full meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
This salad is a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and healthy fats—especially if you add avocado and nuts.
Pairing Suggestions
- Drinks: Sparkling water with lemon, iced herbal tea, or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
- Meals: Serve alongside quiche, grilled chicken, or a light pasta primavera.
For a sweet fruit-based treat, try these Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries — they echo the strawberry theme while offering a delightful dessert. - Looking for another salad idea? This hearty Antipasto Salad Recipe complements the lighter spinach salad beautifully.
- If you’re making a complete meal, consider serving this salad alongside these savory Mediterranean Lemon Dill Chicken Bowls or even this flavor-packed Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe.
- And for dessert lovers, don’t miss the Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes — perfect for keeping the fruity summer vibe going.
Pro Tips for the Best Strawberry Spinach Salad
- Use ripe strawberries: Look for bright red, fragrant berries with no bruises.
- Don’t overdress: Toss with just enough dressing to coat—too much can weigh down the leaves.
- Add the dressing last minute: Prevents sogginess and keeps the salad crisp.
- Chill your salad bowl: Keeps everything cool and refreshing on warm spring days.
Perfect for Spring Events
This salad shines at:
- Easter brunches
- Mother’s Day lunches
- Outdoor picnics
- Weeknight dinners
It’s also a beautiful addition to potlucks—just keep the dressing on the side until ready to serve.
A Salad With Sentiment
Growing up, my grandmother would serve this salad in a big wooden bowl, often paired with fresh bread and her signature herb butter. I remember the way the sweet strawberries mingled with the tang of vinegar and the creamy crumbles of cheese—it was the taste of sunshine after a long winter.
Today, I prepare it for my own family, sometimes adding my twist with different nuts or berries, but the heart of the recipe remains the same: fresh ingredients, simple preparation, and shared joy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep all ingredients (except the dressing) and store them separately in the fridge. Combine and dress the salad right before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
What kind of strawberries work best?
Look for ripe, fresh strawberries that are firm yet juicy. Organic or locally-grown berries often have the best flavor, especially in spring.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely. Just swap out the feta cheese for a plant-based alternative or omit it altogether. Use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
How long does it keep in the fridge?
Once dressed, the salad is best eaten immediately. If undressed, it can last about 2 days in an airtight container, although avocado may brown slightly.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh is ideal for texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
Strawberry Spinach Salad
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 6 cups baby spinach fresh
- 1 cup fresh strawberries sliced
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced red onions optional
- 1/3 cup toasted pecans or almonds
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette store-bought or homemade
Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette (Optional)
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, toss together spinach, strawberries, red onion (if using), feta, and toasted nuts.
- In a small jar or bowl, whisk together vinaigrette ingredients or shake well if using a jar.
- Drizzle dressing over salad just before serving and toss gently to combine.
Notes
Conclusion: A Simple Joy of Spring
There’s something undeniably magical about the first truly warm day of the year. It calls us outside, encourages lighter meals, and brings back the vibrant flavors of the season. This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a beautiful expression of that renewal—fresh, wholesome, and effortlessly delicious.
Whether you’re serving it at a spring gathering or savoring it quietly for lunch, this salad reminds us to celebrate the simple joys: fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and memories shared across the table.
So grab those strawberries while they’re sweet, and bring a little sunshine to your plate!
