Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is a delightful combination of fresh greens, sweet strawberries, and crunchy pecans. This salad is perfect for any occasion, from casual lunches to elegant dinners. Its vibrant colors and flavors make it a standout dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, ensuring you can enjoy a nutritious meal in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: The mix of spinach and strawberries creates a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist.
• Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and minerals, this salad is as healthy as it is delicious.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this salad in a flash.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or main course, it pairs well with various proteins.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or cheeses for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans, you will need some basic kitchen tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: This allows you to combine all ingredients comfortably without spilling.
• Whisk: A whisk helps blend the dressing smoothly for an even coating on your salad.

Ingredients

Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans – Dark leafy greens, juicy red strawberries, briny cheese, and candied nuts are tossed in a homemade balsamic dressing.

For the Salad Base

• 5 oz spinach (or baby kale, washed about 5 cups)
• 1 lb strawberries (washed, hulled and sliced)
• 1/2 cup feta (crumbled or goat cheese)
• 1/4 cup pecans (candied)

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar)
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey (raw)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• salt and pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Step 1: Combine Salad Ingredients

Start by combining the spinach or baby kale, sliced strawberries, and crumbled cheese in a large bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together the balsamic glaze or vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard.
2. Add salt and pepper to taste until well blended.

Step 3: Toss the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients:
– Gently toss everything together until evenly coated with dressing.

Step 4: Garnish

Finally, sprinkle the candied pecans on top for added crunch. Your tasty Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is now ready to be served! Enjoy this refreshing dish at your next meal!

How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

This refreshing Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch or a side dish at dinner, there are plenty of options to enhance your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken for a protein boost.
• Add quinoa for extra texture and nutrition.

With Bread

• Serve alongside crusty artisan bread to soak up the dressing.
• Include garlic bread for a flavorful twist.

At Gatherings

• Present it on a large platter for family-style dining.
• Offer individual servings in small bowls at potlucks.

With Cheese

• Pair with a cheese board featuring Brie or sharp cheddar.
• Top with additional crumbled feta for enhanced flavor.

How to Perfect Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

To make your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans truly outstanding, consider these tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and strawberries enhance the salad’s flavor and texture.
• Make your dressing: A homemade balsamic dressing provides a fresher taste than store-bought versions.
• Opt for seasonal berries: Using strawberries in season ensures optimal sweetness and juiciness.
• Experiment with nuts: Try walnuts or almonds if you want a different nutty flavor.
• Add protein: Incorporating grilled chicken or chickpeas can make this salad more filling.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to sit briefly enhances the flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

This vibrant salad pairs well with several side dishes that complement its flavors. Try these delightful options to round out your meal.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini and bell peppers add smoky flavor and color to your plate.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness balances beautifully with the tangy salad.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa side adds texture and is packed with protein.
4. Cheesy Garlic Bread: The rich flavors of garlic and cheese pair well with the freshness of the salad.
5. Fruit Platter: A mix of seasonal fruits enhances the lightness of the meal.
6. Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and creaminess contrast nicely with the spinach and strawberries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your salad is perfect.

• Not washing the greens properly: Always wash spinach or baby kale thoroughly to remove any dirt and pesticides. This ensures a fresh taste and safe eating experience.
• Using unripe strawberries: Choose ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor. Unripe berries can make your salad taste sour and unappealing.
• Forget to taste the dressing: Before pouring the dressing on your salad, taste it! Adjust the sweetness or acidity to suit your preference for a more balanced flavor.
• Overdressing the salad: It’s easy to drench your salad in dressing, but too much can make it soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed for even coverage.
• Skipping the nuts: While pecans add great crunch and flavor, skipping them will result in a less satisfying texture. Always include them for that delightful contrast.
• Using low-quality oil or vinegar: The quality of olive oil and balsamic vinegar significantly affects the dressing’s taste. Opt for good-quality ingredients for a more flavorful outcome.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in spinach and strawberries.
• If necessary, you could freeze only the pecans separately.

Reheating Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pecans on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes until warmed.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts (15-20 seconds) if you want warm spinach.
• Stovetop: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat while stirring, but avoid cooking too long to maintain freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits like blueberries or mangoes. You can also swap out feta cheese for Swiss or omit it entirely if desired.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make a vegan Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans, substitute honey with maple syrup and use vegan cheese or simply leave out the cheese altogether.

What are some good pairings for this salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish. It also makes an excellent side dish for barbecue meals or picnics.

How can I enhance the flavor of my dressing?

Consider adding garlic powder or fresh herbs like basil or mint into your dressing for extra flavor depth.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare all components ahead of time but store dressing separately until serving to keep everything fresh.

Final Thoughts

The Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for different occasions. Its combination of flavors and textures satisfies both sweet and savory cravings. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting seasonings. Enjoy this refreshing salad at your next meal!

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Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

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Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the earthiness of fresh spinach, the sweetness of ripe strawberries, and the crunch of candied pecans. This delightful salad is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner or enjoying a casual lunch. With its colorful presentation and delicious flavors, it’s sure to impress your guests while providing a nutritious meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. In just 15 minutes, you can create a wholesome dish that balances taste and health. Customize it with your favorite ingredients for an added personal touch!

• Total Time: 39 minute
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5 oz spinach (or baby kale)
• 1 lb strawberries
• 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled) or goat cheese
• 1/4 cup candied pecans
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze or vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine washed spinach or baby kale, sliced strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well blended.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss until evenly coated.
4. Garnish with candied pecans before serving.

• Author: Adriana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 240
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: For added flavor, try incorporating seasonal fruits like blueberries or swapping feta for goat cheese. To make it vegan-friendly, replace honey with maple syrup and omit cheese. Pair this salad with grilled chicken or quinoa for a more filling meal.