Strawberry Spinach Salad with Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant, and nutrient-packed salad, this Strawberry Spinach Salad with homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette is a perfect choice.

It’s not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it a great option for both everyday meals and special occasions.

The combination of sweet strawberries, juicy blueberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta cheese on a bed of fresh spinach creates a delightful mix of flavors and textures.

To top it off, a homemade balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together beautifully.

Ingredients:

Salad:

  • 2 cups strawberries, sliced
  • 1 cup blueberries
  • 4 cups spinach
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
  • 6-8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
  • Lemon zest

Balsamic Vinaigrette:

  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

Making the Balsamic Vinaigrette

  1. Combine the Ingredients:
    In a mason jar, combine 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
  2. Shake Well:
    Secure the lid on the mason jar and give it a good shake. This will emulsify the dressing, ensuring all the ingredients are well mixed. Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Preparing the Salad

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
  • Strawberries and Blueberries: Wash and slice the strawberries. Rinse the blueberries.
  • Spinach: Wash and dry the spinach leaves.
  • Pecans: Roughly chop the pecans for added crunch.
  • Feta Cheese: Crumble the feta cheese if not already done.
  1. Assemble the Salad:
  • In a large salad bowl, start with a base of 4 cups of fresh spinach.
  • Add the sliced strawberries and blueberries.
  • Thinly slice a red onion and add it to the bowl if desired.
  • Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top.
  • Scatter the chopped pecans for a delightful crunch.
  • Zest a lemon directly over the salad to add a burst of fresh citrus flavor.
  1. Dress the Salad:
  • Just before serving, give the balsamic vinaigrette another good shake.
  • Pour about half of the vinaigrette over the salad.
  • Gently toss the salad to ensure all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
  • Taste and add more vinaigrette if needed, according to your preference.
  1. Serve and Enjoy:
  • Serve the salad immediately for the best flavor and texture.
  • Any leftover vinaigrette can be stored in the refrigerator for future use.

Tips and Variations:

  • Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the salad.
  • Nut Alternatives: Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a different flavor and texture.
  • Cheese Options: Try using goat cheese instead of feta for a tangier taste.
  • Fruit Variations: Feel free to mix in other seasonal fruits such as raspberries, blackberries, or mandarin oranges.
  • Make it a Meal: Pair this salad with a slice of crusty bread or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

This Strawberry Spinach Salad with homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette is not only easy to make but also a delightful way to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce.

Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a family dinner, or a potluck, it’s sure to be a hit.

Enjoy the combination of flavors and the health benefits it brings to your table!

Author: Shubham Calmblay

Shubham Calmblay, founder of appsthatdeliver.com, has a decade of experience with various Google products. He has authored 1,000+ guides for ATD, published on prestigious tech blogs. His work has garnered recognition from Protocol.com, Leadsbridge.com, MadMobile.com, and numerous other leading publications and corporations.