Strawberry Spinach Salad Balsamic

The first time I made this salad was for a patio dinner last June, when strawberries were at their absolute peak sweetness from the farmers market. I'd originally planned something more complicated, but the heat made me pivot to something light and unexpected. Now it's become my go-to when I want something that feels special but takes almost no effort.

Last spring my neighbor Sarah brought over a basket of fresh strawberries from her garden, and I threw this together on impulse. We ended up eating on the front steps while her kids played in the yard, and she asked for the recipe before she even finished her first bite. Something about fresh strawberries and good company just makes everything feel easier.

Ingredients

• Fresh baby spinach: I've learned that the delicate baby leaves work better than mature spinach here, they're tender enough to almost melt in your mouth while still holding up to the dressing
• Strawberries: Peak season strawberries make all the difference, look for ones that smell fragrant and have deep red color all the way through
• Red onion: Thinly sliced adds just enough sharpness to cut through the sweetness, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes if you want them milder
• Feta cheese: The creamy tanginess balances the strawberries perfectly, though goat cheese works beautifully too if that's what you prefer
• Roasted pecans or walnuts: These bring that essential crunch factor, toast them in a dry pan for a few minutes first to really wake up their flavor
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Use a good quality one here since the dressing is so simple, the fruitiness really shines through
• Balsamic vinegar: The deep sweetness and acidity is what ties everything together, aged balsamic adds an extra layer of complexity
• Dijon mustard: This is the secret that makes the vinaigrette actually emulsify instead of separating, plus it adds this subtle depth
• Honey or maple syrup: Just a tiny bit bridges the gap between the tart vinegar and sweet strawberries

Instructions

Prep your base:

Pile the spinach into your largest salad bowl, then scatter those beautiful sliced strawberries and onion over the top

Add the crunch and creaminess:

Sprinkle the crumbled feta and roasted nuts evenly across the salad so every bite gets a little of everything

Make the magic happen:

Whisk together the olive oil, balsamic, Dijon, and honey in a small jar until it becomes thick and creamy

Bring it together:

Drizzle about half the dressing over the salad and toss gently with your hands, adding more dressing until it's exactly how you like it

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This became my daughter's requested birthday lunch when she turned twelve, which says something coming from a kid who usually claims to hate anything green. Watching her go back for thirds made me realize sometimes the simplest dishes are the ones that become traditions.

Making It Your Own

I've started adding avocado sometimes when I want something more substantial, and grilled chicken turns it into a complete meal that still feels light and fresh. The beauty is that the basic combination works with whatever tweaks you need to make it fit your mood.

Seasonal Swaps

When strawberries aren't in season, I've used sliced pears or fresh figs with equally wonderful results. The formula of sweet fruit, creamy cheese, and crunchy nuts over greens is worth memorizing for every season.

Serving Suggestions

This salad needs nothing more than a crisp white wine and maybe some crusty bread to soak up any extra dressing. I've served it alongside grilled fish, as part of a brunch spread, and even as a starter for fancy dinner parties.

• Try candied pecans if you want to lean into the sweet and savory thing even more
• A little fresh basil or mint adds this gorgeous aromatic layer that people can't quite put their finger on
• Keep the vinaigrette separate if you're taking this to a potluck, everything stays crisp and perfect

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Hope this becomes one of those recipes you turn to without thinking, the kind that makes any meal feel like a celebration of whatever season you're in.

Recipe FAQs

→ What nuts work best in this salad?

Roasted pecans or walnuts add crunch and a rich flavor that complements the sweetness of strawberries.

→ Can I make the vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes, whisk the balsamic vinaigrette ingredients together and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir before serving.

→ Are there suitable substitutions for feta cheese?

Goat cheese can be used as a creamy alternative, offering a slightly different tang that pairs well with the other ingredients.

→ How can I make this salad heartier?

Adding grilled chicken or sliced avocado enhances the protein and texture, making it more filling.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.