This vibrant strawberry spinach salad is a refreshing, nutrient-packed dish ideal for spring and summer.
Bursting with fresh strawberries and crisp spinach, it offers a naturally sweet and tangy flavor profile complemented by a creamy poppy seed dressing.
The salad is rich in fiber, thanks to the fresh greens and fruit, supporting digestion and heart health.
Toasted pecans contribute a satisfying crunch while adding heart-healthy fats and plant-based protein, making the salad both delicious and nourishing.
Crumbled feta cheese introduces a subtle creaminess with minimal saturated fat.
Its simplicity and quick assembly make it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, ensuring you enjoy a fresh, wholesome dish without the fuss.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Large Mixing Bowl
Essential for combining all ingredients effortlessly without spilling. Its spacious design makes tossing salads simple and efficient, perfect for everyday kitchen use.
Sharp Chef’s Knife
Crucial for slicing strawberries and onions thinly and evenly. A versatile knife, it’s a must-have for precise cuts in countless recipes.
Salad Spinner
Ensures spinach leaves are thoroughly washed and dried, preventing soggy salads and enhancing the dressing’s adhesion. A kitchen staple for fresh greens.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate ingredient measurement ensures balanced flavors and consistency every time you make this recipe or others.
Serving Bowl or Platter:
For a beautiful presentation, a large serving bowl highlights the salad’s colors, making meals more appealing and enjoyable.
Spinach and Strawberry Salad
Equipment
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl
- 1 Sharp Chef’s Knife
- 1 Salad Spinner
- Measuring Cups and Spoons (set)
- 1 Serving Bowl or Platter
Ingredients
- 5 ounces fresh spinach
- 1 cup thinly sliced strawberries
- ⅓ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ½ cup toasted pecans
- 2 ounces crumbled feta cheese
- Sea salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 recipe Poppy Seed Dressing
Instructions
- Prepare Fresh Spinach Leaves: Start by thoroughly rinsing 5 ounces of fresh spinach under cold running water. Use your hands to gently separate the leaves to ensure all dirt or grit is removed. After washing, place the spinach in a salad spinner and spin it until completely dry. Removing excess moisture is essential to prevent the salad from becoming soggy and to help the dressing cling evenly to the leaves.
- Slice Strawberries Thinly and Evenly: Wash and hull fresh strawberries before slicing. Using a sharp chef’s knife, carefully slice 1 cup of strawberries into thin, even pieces. Thin slices allow the natural sweetness of the strawberries to blend smoothly with the other salad ingredients, ensuring every bite has balanced flavor and texture.
- Prepare Red Onion Slices: Peel a small red onion and slice ⅓ cup thinly into half-moon shapes. Thin slicing reduces the sharpness of the onion’s flavor, making it more palatable and enhancing the salad’s overall freshness without overpowering the sweet and tangy notes.
- Toast Pecans for Crunch and Flavor: To bring out the rich, nutty flavor of pecans, toast ½ cup in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent burning and cook until they become fragrant and lightly browned, usually about 3 to 5 minutes. Allow pecans to cool completely before adding to the salad. Toasting not only intensifies flavor but also adds a satisfying crunch.
- Combine Salad Ingredients Gently: In a large mixing bowl, place the dried spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, and red onion. Add a portion of your prepared poppy seed dressing—start with about half the amount you intend to use. Using clean salad tongs or your hands, gently toss the ingredients together to coat everything evenly without bruising the spinach or strawberries.
- Add Pecans and Feta Cheese Carefully: Once the greens and fruit are lightly dressed, sprinkle the toasted pecans and 2 ounces of crumbled feta cheese over the salad. Gently toss again, taking care not to crush the delicate ingredients. The pecans add texture and richness, while the feta contributes a creamy, slightly salty element that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
- Final Dressing and Seasoning Adjustments: Taste your salad and decide if it needs more dressing for extra moisture and flavor. Add more poppy seed dressing in small increments, tossing gently each time to ensure even distribution. Season the salad with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking, which will enhance all the flavors and balance sweetness and acidity.
- Serve Fresh and Enjoy Immediately: For best taste and texture, serve the salad immediately after final tossing. If preparing ahead, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the crispness of the spinach and strawberries. Present the salad in a large, attractive serving bowl or platter to highlight its colorful appeal.
Notes
Chef’s Secrets for Salad Success
Achieving the perfect balance in this salad lies in preparation and timing.
Dry your spinach thoroughly—moisture can dilute the dressing and wilt the leaves quickly.
Use a sharp knife for thin, uniform slices of strawberries and onion to ensure each bite offers a harmonious mix of flavors.
Toasting pecans brings out a richer nuttiness, elevating the texture and aroma of the salad.
When adding the dressing, start small and toss gently to avoid bruising delicate ingredients.
Lastly, fresh, quality ingredients are non-negotiable; their natural brightness is what makes this salad truly special.
Serving Suggestions to Impress Guests
This salad works beautifully as a light lunch or a side dish to grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.
For a more substantial meal, toss in grilled shrimp or chickpeas for added protein.
Consider pairing it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to complement the fruity and tangy notes.
Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as basil or mint for an extra layer of freshness.
For gatherings, serve the salad on a large platter to showcase its colorful appeal—adding edible flowers can also create a stunning presentation.
Storage Tips for Freshness and Flavor
While the salad is best served immediately, you can prepare components ahead to save time.
Keep the washed and dried spinach refrigerated in a sealed container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
Store sliced strawberries and onions separately in airtight containers.
Toast pecans can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week.
Keep the dressing refrigerated separately and combine everything just before serving to maintain crispness and vibrant flavors. Avoid dressing the salad too early to prevent sogginess.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered Clearly
1. Can I use baby kale instead of spinach?
Absolutely! Baby kale is a heartier green that holds up well with dressing and adds a slightly earthier flavor, making it a great alternative.
2. Is it possible to make the dressing from scratch?
Yes, homemade poppy seed dressing is simple and fresh. A blend of mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, poppy seeds, and a bit of mustard creates a creamy, tangy dressing that pairs perfectly with this salad.
3. How do I keep strawberries from making the salad soggy?
Slice strawberries just before serving and toss them gently with the dressing right before serving. This prevents them from releasing too much juice and keeps the salad crisp.
4. Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Definitely! Walnuts or almonds work well and provide a similar crunch and flavor profile, though toasting them enhances their nuttiness.
5. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, with some care. Store components separately and assemble shortly before eating to maintain freshness. Dressing the salad too early will cause wilting.
This recipe is inspired by loveandlemons and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.
