Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Gorgeous summer strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, enjoying a light lunch, or looking for a vibrant side dish, this salad stands out with its beautiful colors and delightful flavors. The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy nuts drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette makes it an irresistible choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and quick steps, this salad can be made in just 20 minutes.
• Flavor explosion: The blend of sweet and tangy flavors from the strawberries and balsamic vinaigrette adds depth to every bite.
• Versatile dish: Perfect as a main dish or a side; it complements various meals effortlessly.
• Healthy option: Packed with nutrients from spinach and strawberries, it’s both delicious and nutritious.
• Colorful presentation: The vibrant colors make this salad a stunning centerpiece for your dining table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious recipe, gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar or small bowl
• Pan for toasting almonds
• Large mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar or small bowl: Ideal for mixing the dressing thoroughly without spills.
• Pan for toasting almonds: A non-stick pan ensures even toasting and enhances flavor through browning.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without mess.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 package (5 ounces) organic spinach
• 8 ounces strawberries, halved (about 2 cups halved strawberries)
• 1 large avocado, sliced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup feta crumbles
• ⅓ cup raw sliced almonds
• ¼ cup chopped shelled roasted pistachios

For the Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, grated or finely minced
• ½ teaspoon dijon mustard
• ½ tablespoon strawberry jam (or jam of choice)
• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a mason jar or small bowl, add all of the dressing ingredients.
2. Shake or mix well to combine.
3. Taste and add additional salt/pepper if necessary.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

1. Add the almonds to a pan over medium heat.
2. Stir occasionally for 2–5 minutes until they are slightly golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and allow them to cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, add the spinach first.
2. Layer on the strawberries, avocado slices, red onion, feta crumbles, toasted almonds, and chopped pistachios.
3. You can add dressing now or serve it on the side for individual servings.
4. Top each serving with extra toasted almonds and drizzle with ¼ of the dressing.

Enjoy your delicious strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic!

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Serving Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic is a delightful experience that combines flavor and presentation. Whether for a casual lunch or a festive gathering, this salad can be adapted to suit any occasion.

Individual Bowls

• Serve the salad in individual bowls for a personal touch. Drizzle each serving with the strawberry balsamic vinaigrette just before eating to keep the ingredients fresh.

Family Style

• Present the salad in a large bowl at the center of the table. Allow guests to serve themselves, encouraging everyone to mix and match their desired toppings and dressing.

Picnic Style

• Pack the salad in mason jars for a picnic. Layer the ingredients starting with spinach at the bottom, followed by strawberries, avocado, and toppings on top. Keep the dressing separate until ready to enjoy.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this vibrant salad as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. Its sweet and tangy flavors complement savory main courses beautifully.

Appetizer Course

• Serve smaller portions as an appetizer before a meal. Garnish with extra toasted almonds or feta to elevate its presentation.

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How to Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

To ensure your salad shines, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture while maintaining freshness.

• Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh spinach and ripe strawberries for optimal flavor. Seasonal produce will elevate your dish.
• Toast Almonds: Toasting almonds enhances their flavor and adds crunch. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add more strawberry jam to balance the vinegar’s tang.
• Chill Ingredients: Chill your ingredients before assembling for a refreshing salad that’s perfect for warm days.
• Customize Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or cheeses based on preference—walnuts or goat cheese are excellent alternatives.
• Make-ahead Dressing: Prepare the vinaigrette ahead of time; it can be stored in the fridge for several days, letting flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Complement your Strawberry Spinach Salad with these delightful side dishes that add variety and balance to your meal.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: These tender skewers provide protein that pairs well with the freshness of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf offers texture and substance, making it a filling addition to your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and earthiness that contrast nicely with the salad’s brightness.
4. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread serves as a comforting side that everyone loves; it’s perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans add flair while being hearty yet healthy.
6. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes create an easy-to-eat appetizer that complements both salads well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the dish’s taste and presentation.

• Ingredient Choices: Using overripe strawberries can lead to a mushy texture. Choose fresh, firm strawberries for the best flavor and consistency.
• Dressing Balance: Skipping the taste test on your vinaigrette can result in an unbalanced dressing. Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness before serving.
• Layering Technique: Not layering ingredients properly can lead to a salad that is difficult to mix. Start with spinach at the bottom, then layer your toppings for beautiful presentation and even distribution.
• Toasting Nuts: Forgetting to toast your almonds can mean missing out on extra flavor. Toast them lightly to enhance their nuttiness before adding them to the salad.
• Serving Temperature: Serving the salad too cold can dull its flavors. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to bring out the best taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for about 1-2 days.

Freezing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture of fresh ingredients like spinach and strawberries.

Reheating Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 15 seconds until just warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

You might have some questions about making this delightful strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic. Here are some answers.

Can I use other greens instead of spinach?

Yes! You can substitute arugula, kale, or mixed greens if you prefer a different flavor or texture.

What other toppings work well with strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic?

Consider adding walnuts, goat cheese, or even grilled chicken for added protein and flavor variety.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

Can I prepare the vinaigrette in advance?

Absolutely! You can store the vinaigrette in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using!

Final Thoughts

This strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is not only visually stunning but also incredibly versatile. Its balance of sweet and savory makes it perfect as a light lunch or side dish. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite nuts or proteins; you’ll find endless possibilities that suit your taste!