Strawberry Spinach Salad : A Fresh Summer Dish

There’s nothing quite like the vibrant combination of sweet strawberries and tender spinach leaves. This Strawberry Spinach Salad is everything you want in a warm-weather dish: refreshing, colorful, and packed with flavor. Juicy strawberries, crisp cucumbers, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese are layered over a bed of leafy greens, all tossed with a tangy-sweet vinaigrette. It’s a celebration of seasonal produce and the perfect balance of textures and tastes.

Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue, packing it for a picnic, or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad is a crowd-pleasing favorite that comes together quickly and easily.

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Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Spinach Salad

This isn’t your average side salad. Here’s why this Strawberry Spinach Salad recipe stands out:

• Sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy in every bite
• Simple to prepare, yet stunning enough for special occasions
• Packed with nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber
• Completely customizable for any dietary preference
• Perfect for spring and summer, using fresh seasonal ingredients

With just a handful of fresh components, you’ll create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and beauty.

Who This Salad Recipe is Perfect For

This recipe is ideal for:

• Health-conscious eaters looking for a nutrient-rich, low-effort meal
• Entertainers who want a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious
• Meal preppers who want a fresh lunch option
• Vegetarians and flexitarians who love fresh produce
• Anyone with seasonal strawberries to use

It’s versatile enough to be a side dish, starter, or main course with just a few additions.

Ingredients to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad

Here’s everything you need to build the perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad:

• 5 ounces fresh baby spinach
• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ½ cup cucumber, thinly sliced or chopped
• ¼ red onion, very thinly sliced
• ¼ cup almonds or pecans, toasted
• ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)

For the Balsamic Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

This simple vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the strawberries and richness of the cheese perfectly.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to assemble this salad:

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl or jar (for dressing)
• Whisk or fork (for mixing vinaigrette)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Salad spinner (optional, for drying spinach)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving tongs or salad utensils

No fancy tools are required—just a few basics to bring this salad to life.

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad Step-by-Step

Follow these easy steps for a quick, fresh salad that’s full of flavor:

1. Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until the dressing emulsifies. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Toast the nuts: If using raw nuts, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–4 minutes, stirring often, until golden and fragrant. Let cool.
3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, add spinach, sliced strawberries, cucumber, and red onion.
4. Add toppings: Sprinkle toasted nuts, crumbled cheese, and mint (if using) over the salad.
5. Dress and toss: Drizzle with the prepared vinaigrette just before serving. Toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately: Plate in individual bowls or a large serving platter. Garnish with extra strawberries or herbs if desired.

This salad is best served fresh but can be prepped in advance with dressing kept separate until ready to serve.

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Tips for the Best Flavor and Texture

• Use fresh, ripe strawberries for natural sweetness and juiciness
• Slice onions thinly or soak in water briefly to reduce sharpness
• Toast nuts for enhanced crunch and flavor
• Crumbled goat cheese or feta adds creamy richness—choose whichever you prefer
• Add mint or basil for a refreshing herbal twist

Fresh ingredients and balance are key—each bite should include sweet, creamy, crisp, and tangy elements.

Perfect Dressings for Strawberry Spinach Salad

Balsamic vinaigrette is a classic pairing, but you can experiment with:

• Poppy seed dressing for a sweeter, creamy option
• Honey mustard vinaigrette for extra tang
• Lemon vinaigrette for bright citrus notes
• Strawberry vinaigrette made with puréed berries

The goal is to highlight the strawberry’s sweetness while adding contrast and richness.

Serving Ideas and Presentation Tips

Make this salad shine at your table with a few presentation upgrades:

• Serve on a white platter or bowl to let the colors pop
• Garnish with edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies
• Add a drizzle of dressing just before serving for a glossy finish
• Fan out strawberry slices for a decorative touch
• Top with whole mint leaves for an aromatic flair

Presentation enhances the experience and makes even a simple salad feel special.

Storage Instructions and Make-Ahead Tips

While best enjoyed fresh, this salad can be partly prepped ahead:

• Prep the dressing up to 3 days ahead and store in the fridge
• Wash and dry spinach, then store in a sealed container with a paper towel to absorb moisture
• Slice strawberries and veggies up to 1 day ahead, storing them separately
• Toast nuts ahead and keep in an airtight jar
• Assemble just before serving to avoid soggy greens

Once dressed, the salad should be enjoyed immediately to preserve texture.

Variations and Ingredient Swaps

Want to mix it up? Try these flavorful twists:

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a meal
• Use arugula or mixed greens in place of spinach
• Swap feta for blue cheese, brie, or shaved parmesan
• Add avocado slices or cooked quinoa for extra nutrition
• Use candied pecans or sunflower seeds for crunch
• Toss in blueberries or raspberries for more berry flavor

This salad is endlessly customizable based on what’s in season or in your fridge.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Fresh Salads

Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure freshness and flavor:

• Overdressing: Add dressing gradually and toss gently
• Using wet spinach: Always dry greens thoroughly after washing
• Overripe strawberries: They’ll become mushy and watery
• Skipping the acid: Balsamic or lemon juice is essential to brighten flavors
• Not balancing flavors: Too much sweet or creamy without contrast can fall flat

Take your time assembling and tasting as you go for the best results.

What to Serve with Strawberry Spinach Salad

This salad works well as a side dish or light main course. Pair it with:

• Grilled chicken, fish, or tofu
• Herbed couscous or quinoa
• Crusty whole grain bread
• Chilled pasta dishes or gazpacho
• Light sandwiches or wraps

It’s a perfect match for any spring or summer meal, indoors or outdoors.

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Strawberry Spinach Salad FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Not recommended—frozen berries release too much water and lack the texture of fresh.

What’s the best cheese for this salad?
Goat cheese offers creaminess with tang, while feta is salty and crumbly. Both work beautifully.

Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes—just skip the cheese or use a plant-based version.

Can I make it ahead for a party?
Prep ingredients separately, then assemble and dress right before serving.

How long will leftovers last?
If undressed, components last 1–2 days. Once dressed, the salad should be eaten the same day.

Nutrition Information for Strawberry Spinach Salad

Approximate per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Sugar: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Vitamin C: 70% DV
• Iron: 12% DV

This salad is rich in vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats while remaining light and fresh.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. With just the right balance of sweet and savory, crunchy and creamy, it’s a seasonal staple you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or a beautiful side dish for guests, this salad delivers freshness and flavor every time.

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