Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese

A Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese is a vibrant dish that combines the sweetness of strawberries and blueberries with the creamy texture of feta cheese. This salad is perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing side for dinner, or a crowd-pleaser at potluck gatherings. The mix of colors and flavors not only makes it visually appealing but also provides a delightful taste experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad can be assembled in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh spinach and berries, this salad is as healthy as it is delicious.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish; it pairs well with various proteins like chicken or turkey.
• Flavorful Dressing: The homemade balsamic dressing adds a tangy kick that elevates the overall taste of the salad.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy dinner at home, this salad fits perfectly into any meal setting.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Small bowl or cup
• Skillet
• Whisk or mason jar with lid
• Sieve

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl allows ample space for tossing ingredients without spilling.
• Skillet: Toasting pecans in a skillet enhances their flavor, making them more aromatic and crunchy.
• Whisk or Mason Jar: These tools help combine ingredients thoroughly for the dressing, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 10 oz baby spinach
• 5 oz strawberries (hulled and sliced)
• 3 oz blueberries (about ½ cup)
• 2 oz pecans (halved or chopped)
• 1 ½ oz sliced red onion (about ¼ medium onion)
• ½ cup feta cheese (crumbled or diced small)

For the Dressing

• 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 teaspoons honey
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese

Step 1: Soak the Red Onion

Pour some cold water into a small bowl or cup and soak the red onion slices while you prepare the salad. This step helps reduce the strong onion flavor; however, you can skip it if you prefer raw onions.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for about two minutes. Shake them often to ensure they brown evenly but remove them from heat once they start to brown on the edges to avoid bitterness.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until well combined. Alternatively, place them in a mason jar, close the lid tightly, and shake vigorously until mixed. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine baby spinach, strawberries, blueberries, toasted pecans, feta cheese, and drained red onions. Whisk or shake the dressing again before adding about two-thirds to the salad mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Adjust by adding more dressing if desired.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is nicely tossed together, serve your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese immediately. Enjoy this delightful dish fresh!

How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese

Serving your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delightful salad.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Serve sliced grilled chicken breast on top of the salad for added protein and a satisfying meal.

Use as a Side Dish

• This salad makes a vibrant side dish for any main course, especially during summer barbecues or potlucks.

Top with Nuts and Seeds

• Sprinkle additional toasted nuts or seeds for an extra crunch and flavor boost, enhancing the overall texture.

Create a Wrap

• Roll up the salad ingredients in a whole grain wrap for a nutritious lunch option that’s easy to take on the go.

Add Quinoa or Couscous

• Mix in cooked quinoa or couscous to make the salad heartier, transforming it into a filling meal.

How to Perfect Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese

To ensure your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always select fresh baby spinach and ripe strawberries for the best flavor and nutrition.
• Toast Pecans Carefully: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
• Adjust Dressing to Taste: Use more or less dressing based on your personal preference; start with less and add more as needed.
• Soak Onions for Mild Flavor: Soaking red onions in cold water can tone down their sharpness, making them more palatable.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to add other fruits like mandarin oranges or nuts like walnuts to customize your salad.
• Serve Chilled: For a refreshing dish, serve the salad chilled, especially on hot days.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese

Complementing your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious side dishes that pair well.

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
   A light and flavorful chicken that adds protein while enhancing the salad’s taste.

2. Baked Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy and sweet, these fries offer a delightful contrast to the fresh flavors of the salad.

3. Quinoa Pilaf
   A nutty quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs provides a hearty side that complements the lightness of the salad.

4. Vegetable Stir-Fry
   A colorful medley of vegetables stir-fried in garlic and ginger makes for a vibrant pairing.

5. Roasted Asparagus
   Tender roasted asparagus drizzled with balsamic glaze adds an elegant touch to your meal.

6. Caprese Skewers
   Fresh mozzarella balls, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers create an easy-to-eat appetizer that complements your salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious dish.

• Ignoring onion soaking: Not soaking the red onions can lead to overpowering flavors. Soaking helps mellow their taste, making the salad more enjoyable.
• Overtoasting pecans: Toasting the pecans too long can result in a bitter flavor. Keep an eye on them and toast just until they’re golden brown.
• Skipping the dressing whisking: Failing to whisk or shake the dressing well may result in uneven flavor distribution. Make sure to mix it thoroughly before adding it to your salad.
• Using stale greens: Using limp or wilted spinach will detract from your salad’s freshness. Always use fresh baby spinach for the best texture and taste.
• Not adjusting dressing amount: Adding too much or too little dressing can overpower or underwhelm the salad. Start with 2/3 of the dressing and adjust according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as fresh ingredients lose their texture and flavor when thawed.

Reheating Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese

• Oven: If you need to warm additional ingredients like roasted chicken, preheat your oven and use a baking dish covered with foil.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container and heat in short bursts, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat, stirring frequently, to avoid overcooking any components.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese.

Can I customize my Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese?

Absolutely! You can add nuts like walnuts or almonds, swap out feta cheese for goat cheese, or include other fruits like kiwi or mandarin oranges for variety.

How do I make my own balsamic dressing?

To make a simple balsamic dressing, combine extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard (optional), salt, and pepper. Whisk together until emulsified.

Is Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese healthy?

Yes! This salad is packed with nutrients from spinach and strawberries. With healthy fats from olive oil and nuts, it makes for a balanced meal.

How long will my Spinach Strawberry Salad stay fresh?

When stored properly in the fridge, it will last up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

The Spinach Strawberry Salad with Feta Cheese is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different fruits or proteins according to your taste preferences. Try this delightful salad today; it’s perfect for lunch or as a side at gatherings!