Strawberry Spinach Salad

There’s something incredibly special about a salad that captures the essence of the season in both flavor and appearance. The Strawberry Spinach Salad does exactly that—it’s fresh, colorful, and bursting with natural sweetness, while still feeling balanced and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that you can make in minutes, yet it never fails to impress. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a beautiful starter, or a refreshing side for your next gathering, this salad will quickly become one of your go-to recipes.

The first time I made a version of this salad, it was one of those spontaneous creations born from a glance in the fridge. I had a container of strawberries nearing their prime, a handful of spinach, and a few pantry staples. With a quick homemade balsamic vinaigrette and a sprinkle of nuts and cheese, I had what felt like a restaurant-worthy salad right at home. That meal reminded me how sometimes, the simplest combinations are the most delicious.

Strawberries and spinach may seem like an unlikely pair at first glance, but the combination is incredibly complementary. The sweet, juicy berries brighten up the earthy, slightly bitter greens, while the vinaigrette ties it all together with a perfect mix of acidity and richness. The addition of crumbled cheese and toasted pecans brings creaminess and crunch—two textural elements that every great salad needs.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Spinach Salad

When it comes to salads, there are a few boxes that need to be checked for it to become more than just a plate of greens. It has to be flavorful, texturally interesting, easy to make, and something you actually look forward to eating. This Strawberry Spinach Salad not only checks all of those boxes—it goes far beyond them. From its sweet and savory combination to its visual appeal, this recipe offers a full sensory experience in every bite.

First and foremost, the flavor profile is incredibly well-balanced. You get a gentle bitterness from the spinach and greens, a bright burst of sweetness from the strawberries, a creamy tang from the crumbled cheese, and a toasted crunch from the pecans. The balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together with a touch of acidity and a hint of sweetness thanks to a splash of maple syrup. Each ingredient is simple on its own, but when layered together, they create something really special.

Another reason to love this salad is how quick and effortless it is to prepare. You don’t need any special equipment or cooking skills—just a knife, a whisk, and a big bowl. It’s one of those recipes you can throw together in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights, last-minute entertaining, or when you’re just craving something fresh and delicious without a lot of fuss.

This salad also shines in terms of presentation. The deep greens of the spinach, the vibrant red of the strawberries, and the creamy white of the cheese come together to create a dish that looks as good as it tastes. It’s the kind of salad you’d expect to see on a bistro menu, but you can easily recreate it at home with everyday ingredients.

Health Benefits Strawberry Spinach Salad

When you think of a delicious salad like this one, it’s easy to focus on the flavors and textures, but what’s even better is knowing that you’re fueling your body with something that’s incredibly nutritious. This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a shining example of how fresh, whole ingredients can come together to support both your taste buds and your overall wellness. From heart-healthy fats to antioxidant-rich berries, nearly every component of this salad brings something beneficial to the table.

Let’s start with the greens. Spinach is one of the most nutrient-dense leafy greens out there. It’s high in iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium—minerals that play a key role in maintaining bone strength, muscle function, and a healthy cardiovascular system. Spinach is also loaded with vitamins like vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health, and vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function.

Mixed greens offer variety and additional nutrients. Depending on the mix, you may be getting a blend of romaine, arugula, baby kale, or red leaf lettuce—all of which bring their own unique vitamins and antioxidants. This diversity boosts the nutritional profile while keeping the salad interesting and flavorful.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information Strawberry Spinach Salad

Let’s start with the timing. If you’re moving at a relaxed pace, this salad can be ready in under 15 minutes. That includes washing and slicing the strawberries, prepping the greens, crumbling the cheese, toasting the pecans if you like, and whisking together the dressing. It’s even faster if you prep some components ahead of time. For example, you can make the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

Here’s a simple breakdown of the time involved:

• Prep time for salad ingredients: 10 minutes

• Dressing preparation: 2 to 3 minutes

• Optional toasting of pecans: 5 minutes

• Total time: 12 to 15 minutes (including toasting)

In terms of servings, this recipe is quite flexible. As written, it yields:

• 4 servings as a main dish (when paired with protein)

• 6 to 8 servings as a side salad

This makes it ideal for both family dinners and entertaining. You can also easily scale the recipe up or down depending on your needs.

As for nutrition, this salad delivers a well-balanced profile with plenty of fiber, healthy fats, and essential vitamins. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving, based on 6 servings and including cheese and pecans:

• Calories: 280

• Protein: 6g

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Sugars: 9g (from strawberries and balsamic)

• Fat: 20g

• Saturated Fat: 4g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sodium: 220mg

• Vitamin C: 80% Daily Value

• Vitamin A: 50% Daily Value

• Calcium: 15% Daily Value

• Iron: 10% Daily Value

Ingredients List Strawberry Spinach Salad

For the salad itself, you’ll need:

• Fresh spinach and mixed greens: This combination offers a great balance of texture and flavor. The spinach provides a tender, slightly earthy base, while the mixed greens (which might include arugula, baby kale, or romaine) add crunch and variety. You can use just spinach if you prefer a milder taste or go full spring mix for a more dynamic bite.

• Fresh strawberries: Look for ripe, juicy strawberries that are firm but not mushy. Slice them just before serving for the best color and texture. Strawberries add a natural sweetness that plays beautifully against the tangy vinaigrette and savory cheese.

• Crumbled cheese: Choose your favorite variety based on flavor preference. Goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy profile. Feta offers a salty, briny contrast. Gorgonzola or blue cheese brings boldness. For a milder option, queso fresco is lightly salty and crumbly. Use about half a cup, or more if you like.

• Chopped pecans: Pecans add a rich, toasty crunch that elevates the salad. Toasting them for a few minutes in a dry skillet enhances their flavor. You can substitute walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative.

For the dressing, gather the following:

• Olive oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its smooth flavor and heart-healthy fats.

• Balsamic vinegar: A good-quality balsamic adds depth and tang. Feel free to experiment with flavored balsamic varieties like raspberry or fig for a twist.

• Maple syrup: Just a touch of this natural sweetener balances the acidity of the vinegar without overpowering the other ingredients.

• Dijon mustard: Adds body to the vinaigrette and a subtle tangy heat. You can substitute with whole grain mustard for extra texture.

• Salt and black pepper: Season to taste to bring out all the other flavors.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is the definition of effortless elegance. It’s the kind of salad you can throw together in 15 minutes flat, but it still feels totally special. With juicy strawberries, tender greens, crunchy pecans, creamy cheese, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, every bite is bursting with flavor and texture. Let’s break down every step to make sure it turns out perfect—even if you’re new to making homemade salad dressings or worried about soggy greens.

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🥣 Step 1: Make the Balsamic Vinaigrette

Let’s start with the heart of the salad: the dressing. This homemade balsamic vinaigrette is simple, but oh-so-flavorful—sweet, tangy, and a little sharp, with just the right amount of balance to bring everything in the salad together.

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Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar

• 2 teaspoons maple syrup (or honey, if not vegan)

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions:

1. Grab a small mixing bowl or jar with a lid.
   If using a bowl, you’ll whisk by hand. If you’ve got a jar, shaking is a fun shortcut!

2. Add the ingredients:
   Pour in the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, a pinch of salt, and a few cracks of black pepper.

3. Whisk (or shake) until emulsified:
   You’re looking for the oil and vinegar to fully combine into a smooth, slightly thickened dressing. This might take 30 seconds to a minute of whisking, or a solid 20 seconds of shaking.

4. Taste and adjust:
   Like it sweeter? Add a touch more maple syrup. Want it tangier? Add a splash more vinegar. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!

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Pro Tip:
Make this vinaigrette ahead of time! It keeps well in the fridge for up to a week. Just let it come to room temp and give it a good shake before using—it may separate a little over time, which is totally normal.

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🥬 Step 2: Prep the Salad Ingredients

This salad is all about fresh, simple ingredients that shine. Here’s how to prep each one so everything is crisp, flavorful, and ready to go.

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Salad Ingredients:

• 16 oz fresh spinach + mixed salad greens

• 16 oz fresh strawberries, stems removed and sliced

• 1/2 cup crumbled cheese (goat cheese, feta, blue, gorgonzola, or queso fresco)

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (toasted, if desired)

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Instructions:

1. Wash and dry the greens.
   Use a salad spinner or gently pat with paper towels. The drier the greens, the better the dressing sticks.

2. Slice the strawberries.
   Hull and thinly slice your strawberries so they’re bite-sized and easy to fork with the greens. If your strawberries are super juicy, you can pat them dry a bit with a paper towel.

3. Crumble the cheese.
   If your cheese comes in a block (like feta or goat), crumble it by hand or with a fork. Pre-crumbled cheese works too, but fresh always tastes better!

4. Chop or toast your pecans.
   If you’re using raw pecans, consider toasting them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool completely before adding to the salad.

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Optional Add-Ins:

• Red onions (thinly sliced)

• Sliced cucumbers or radishes

• Pomegranate seeds

• Avocado (sliced or cubed)

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🥗 Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Now that everything is prepped, it’s time to bring it all together.

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Instructions:

1. In a large serving bowl, add the spinach and mixed greens.

2. Scatter the sliced strawberries over the top.

3. Add the crumbled cheese and pecans evenly throughout.

4. Two options from here:

   • Toss it all together with the dressing for a more casual vibe.

   • Plate individually and drizzle dressing on top for a more elegant presentation.

5. If you’re serving right away, go ahead and dress the salad. If not, wait to add the dressing (and strawberries!) until just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

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Pro Tip:
Serve with extra dressing on the side. Some people love a light drizzle, others like to go all-in—it’s nice to give guests the choice!

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🍽 How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad

This salad is seriously versatile. It can be the star of your meal or a perfect supporting dish—it just depends how you serve it.

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🥗 As a Light, Refreshing Main Course

For those warmer days when you don’t want anything too heavy, this salad makes a beautiful main dish. To turn it into a satisfying meal:

• Top with grilled chicken, turkey, or salmon

• Add a handful of cooked quinoa or couscous for extra fiber and staying power

• Toss in avocado slices for a creamy, healthy fat boost

• Try it with seared tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein source

It’s fresh, fast, and so filling—without ever feeling heavy.

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🧺 At Picnics or Potlucks

The colors and freshness make this salad a showstopper for spring and summer events. It looks like it took way more effort than it actually did, and it always gets rave reviews.

Serving Tip: Assemble the greens and toppings in advance, but keep the dressing and strawberries separate until just before serving. That way, nothing gets soggy or weepy!

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🍴 As a Side Dish

This salad pairs beautifully with:

• Hearty soups like butternut squash, lentil, or tomato basil

• Savory tarts or quiche

• Roasted chicken or turkey

• Grilled veggie skewers

It brings brightness and balance to richer dishes, making it a favorite “sidekick” for holiday dinners and summer BBQs alike.

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🥖 Pairing Suggestions

Let’s build a full meal around this gorgeous salad! Whether you’re keeping things casual or going all-out for a special gathering, these pairing ideas bring out the best in every bite.

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🥘 Main Dishes That Work Beautifully

Protein Pairings:

• Grilled herb-marinated chicken — a classic that complements the tangy dressing and sweet berries

• Maple-glazed salmon or trout — the sweetness plays off the strawberries in the salad

• Seared tofu with balsamic glaze — totally plant-based, but full of flavor

• Garlic-rosemary turkey breast — great for holidays or Sunday dinner

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🥣 Warm & Cozy Side Pairings

If you’re serving the salad as a starter or side, pair it with something comforting and hearty:

• Roasted sweet potatoes or stuffed acorn squash

• Butternut squash soup or carrot-ginger soup

• Savory mushroom risotto or wild rice pilaf

• Fresh focaccia or crusty artisan bread

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🥤 Drink Pairings

Keep things light, fruity, and fun:

• Strawberry or lemon sparkling water

• Hibiscus iced tea

• Mint limeade

• Chilled apple or pear cider

• Virgin sangria with fresh fruit and orange juice

These drinks refresh the palate and mirror the brightness of the salad beautifully.

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🧊 Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

This salad is best served fresh, but with a few smart storage tricks, you can make it ahead and still keep everything crisp and delicious.

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🧊 Storage Tips (Short-Term)

If you plan to eat within 24–48 hours:

• Store the salad base (greens, cheese, nuts) in an airtight container in the fridge.

• Keep the dressing in a separate jar—shake before using.

• Wait to add the strawberries and avocado until just before serving to keep them from getting soggy or brown.

Tip: If pre-slicing strawberries, pat them dry after washing and slice only when cool. Moisture = soggy greens.

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❄️ Freezing?

Nope—this one’s not freezer-friendly. Fresh greens, strawberries, and soft cheese don’t hold up well after thawing. You’ll end up with mushy textures and separated dressing.

Instead, prep the components individually and assemble when you’re ready.

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🔁 Reheating?

No reheating needed—this salad is meant to be served cold or room temp. That’s part of what makes it perfect for hot days, picnics, or quick lunches!

If you’re pairing it with a warm dish, just serve them side-by-side for a beautiful contrast of temperature and texture.

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🥣 Meal Prep Tips

• Portion salad greens, cheese, and pecans into meal-prep containers.

• Store dressing and strawberries in separate small containers.

• Assemble right before eating to keep everything fresh and crisp.

Bonus: Double the dressing and use it on other salads, roasted veggies, or as a dip!

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

This Strawberry Spinach Salad may look simple (and it is!), but there are a few easy-to-make missteps that can throw off the balance of flavors and textures. Let’s walk through the most common ones and how to sidestep them.

1. Overdressing the Salad

It’s tempting to pour all the vinaigrette in at once, but spinach and mixed greens can wilt quickly when they absorb too much dressing. For the best results, toss with dressing right before serving—or serve it on the side and let guests add their own. That way, everyone gets the amount they like, and the greens stay crisp and vibrant.

2. Using Unripe or Overripe Strawberries

Strawberries are the star here, so their ripeness really matters. Underripe berries can be tart and lack flavor, while overripe ones get mushy fast. Look for berries that are deep red, fragrant, and slightly soft but still firm.

3. Skipping the Toast on the Pecans

Raw pecans are fine, but toasting them for just 5–7 minutes in a dry skillet or 350°F oven brings out their natural oils and nutty flavor. It adds warmth and crunch that elevates the whole salad.

4. Neglecting to Balance the Flavors

With sweet strawberries and a tangy vinaigrette, you need that salty, creamy note from the cheese and the earthiness from the nuts to balance everything. Skipping one of these elements can throw things off. Think of each ingredient as a member of a team—they work best when they all show up.

5. Adding Strawberries Too Early

If you’re prepping in advance, wait until just before serving to slice and add the strawberries. They can leak juices into the greens, making things soggy.

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💡 Pro Tips for the Best Strawberry Spinach Salad

Want to turn this already-stunning salad into something truly special? These pro tips will help you perfect every bite and give this springy dish that “wow” factor. Whether it’s your first time making it or your fiftieth, there’s always a way to take it to the next level.

1. Layer, Don’t Dump

Instead of mixing everything at once, try layering the ingredients when serving to guests or for presentation. Start with greens, scatter strawberries and cheese, sprinkle pecans, and drizzle dressing over the top. It looks beautiful and makes every bite balanced.

2. Use High-Quality Balsamic Vinegar

Since the dressing is so simple, the ingredients matter. A good-quality aged balsamic vinegar adds natural sweetness and depth that pairs beautifully with the strawberries. If your balsamic is very tart, you can add a splash more maple syrup to mellow it out.

3. Mix Up the Cheeses

Goat cheese adds creamy tang, feta brings a salty crumbly texture, and blue cheese or gorgonzola gives a bold bite. Try them all and find your favorite—or create a blend for extra complexity.

4. Upgrade with Protein

Turning this into a main dish? Add sliced grilled chicken, pan-seared salmon, chickpeas, or even cooked quinoa for a hearty, protein-packed salad that still feels fresh and light.

5. Chill the Salad Bowl

A small touch that makes a big difference: chill your salad bowl in the fridge before assembling. It helps keep the greens crisp longer and makes the whole salad feel extra refreshing—especially on warm days.

6. Try a Berry Medley

If you’re feeling creative, don’t stop at strawberries! Add sliced blackberries, blueberries, or raspberries for even more color and a sweet-tart contrast that’s totally irresistible.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Let’s answer some of the most common questions about this delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad, so you can prep with confidence and get the most delicious results every time.

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, with a few simple tips! You can mix the greens and toppings (except strawberries and dressing) in advance and store in the fridge for a day. Wait to add the strawberries and vinaigrette until just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.

2. What’s the best kind of cheese to use?

This really comes down to taste! Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Goat cheese: Mild, tangy, creamy

• Feta: Salty and crumbly

• Gorgonzola or blue cheese: Strong and bold

• Queso fresco: Mild and fresh, great for a Mexican twist
  Each brings something unique, so choose based on your flavor preferences.

3. Can I use store-bought balsamic dressing?

Definitely! If you’re short on time, a good-quality store-bought balsamic vinaigrette works in a pinch. Just check the label for real ingredients—bonus points if it includes Dijon and maple or honey for sweetness.

4. How do I toast pecans without burning them?

Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once they’re golden and fragrant, remove them from heat immediately. You can also toast them in the oven at 350°F for about 7–9 minutes.

5. Can I use frozen strawberries?

Not recommended. Frozen strawberries tend to be soft and watery once thawed, which doesn’t work well in a fresh salad. Fresh berries are best for flavor and texture here.

6. Is this salad vegan-friendly?

It can be! Just omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese substitute, and make sure your Dijon mustard and balsamic vinegar are vegan (most are). The dressing is naturally vegan with maple syrup as the sweetener.

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🎉 Conclusion & Call to Action

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is one of those magical recipes that looks fancy, tastes gourmet, and yet comes together in minutes. It’s bright, tangy, sweet, creamy, and crunchy all at once—the ultimate celebration of fresh spring and summer ingredients.

Whether you’re serving this up for brunch, pairing it with grilled chicken at a backyard BBQ, or making it your go-to meal prep salad for the week, it delivers every single time. It’s a true seasonal staple in our kitchen and always gets rave reviews whenever we share it with friends and family.

What makes this salad special isn’t just the fresh ingredients or the gorgeous colors—it’s how flexible and feel-good it is. You can change the cheese, add nuts or seeds, swap in a different berry, or top it with your favorite protein. It’s the kind of recipe that fits your life, not the other way around.

And don’t even get me started on that balsamic vinaigrette. It’s the unsung hero of this dish—just the right balance of tangy, sweet, and savory. Once you taste it, you might just start using it on every salad from here on out.

So now it’s your turn to make this beautiful bowl of sunshine. 🍓 Grab those juicy berries, toast up those pecans, and mix up a batch of that dreamy dressing. When you do, I so want to see it!

And hey—want a printable collection of all your salad recipes in one easy download? Just say the word—I’d be happy to put that together for you! 🥗✨

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