Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Gorgeous summer strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is a delightful dish that brings together sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy nuts in every bite. This salad is perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or as an easy side dish for gatherings. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: This salad features fresh organic spinach and ripe strawberries, ensuring maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as a side at your next barbecue or picnic.
• Easy to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this stunning salad without any fuss.
• Flavorful Vinaigrette: The homemade strawberry balsamic vinaigrette adds the perfect sweet-tangy kick to elevate the entire dish.
• Nutty Crunch: Toasted almonds and pistachios provide a satisfying crunch that complements the soft textures of avocado and feta.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic, you’ll need a few essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar or small bowl
• Medium frying pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar or small bowl: Perfect for mixing your dressing thoroughly without spills.
• Medium frying pan: Ideal for toasting nuts evenly, enhancing their flavor.
• Large mixing bowl: Ensures you have enough space to combine all ingredients without making a 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 cheese
• 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a mason jar or small bowl, add all of the dressing ingredients:
1. Pour in balsamic vinegar.
2. Add olive oil.
3. Mix in grated garlic, dijon mustard, and strawberry jam.
4. Shake well until combined. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

To toast the almonds:
1. Place them in a medium frying pan over medium heat.
2. Stir occasionally for about 2-5 minutes until they turn slightly golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

For assembling your salad:
1. In a large mixing bowl, add organic spinach as the base.
2. Layer on the halved strawberries and sliced avocado.
3. Add thinly sliced red onion and crumbled feta cheese.
4. Sprinkle toasted almonds and chopped pistachios on top.

Feel free to add dressing now or serve it on the side for individual servings. Top each salad bowl with extra toasted almonds and drizzle each serving with ¼ of the dressing. Enjoy your vibrant strawberry spinach salad!

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is a delightful dish that serves beautifully for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a casual lunch, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

For a Light Lunch

• Serve the salad in individual bowls for a fresh, vibrant meal that’s easy to prepare.
• Pair it with whole grain crackers for added crunch and fiber.

As a BBQ Side Dish

• Present the salad alongside grilled chicken or fish to complement the flavors.
• Add extra toasted almonds on top for an appealing finish.

For a Picnic Delight

• Pack the salad in mason jars for easy transport and less mess.
• Include small containers of dressing to keep everything fresh until serving.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Serve the salad alongside quiche or frittatas for a balanced meal.
• Offer additional toppings like sunflower seeds for guests who love variety.

How to Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Perfecting your strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your dish!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your spinach and strawberries are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
• Customize Your Nuts: Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or pecans for unique tastes.
• Adjust Dressing Thickness: If you prefer a thicker dressing, add more jam; if you like it thinner, increase the olive oil.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for 15-30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

Pairing side dishes with your strawberry spinach salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement the flavors of this beautiful salad.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken grilled to perfection adds protein and pairs nicely with the sweet tanginess of the salad.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa and vegetable mix provides a hearty yet healthy side option, full of nutrients.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the strawberries while adding a comforting feel to your meal.
4. Hummus and Veggie Platter: Fresh veggies dipped in hummus make for an easy, colorful side that’s great for sharing.
5. Caprese Salad: The classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds refreshing flavors that work well together.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter provide a satisfying contrast to the crispness of the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish’s flavor and presentation.

• Skipping the Toasting Step: Not toasting the almonds can result in a less flavorful salad. Toasting enhances their crunch and adds depth. Simply toast them in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes until golden brown.

• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy and overpower its fresh flavors. Start with a small amount of vinaigrette, and add more as needed to avoid overwhelming the other ingredients.

• Using Unripe Strawberries: Selecting unripe strawberries may lead to a bland taste. Choose ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor. Look for vibrant red color and slight softness when squeezed gently.

• Neglecting to Mix Ingredients Properly: If you don’t mix the salad well, some bites may be overly dressed while others are dry. Toss all ingredients gently but thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.

• Ignoring Personal Preferences: Sticking strictly to the recipe without considering personal taste can make it less enjoyable. Feel free to adjust ingredients like feta or nuts based on your preferences for a customized salad experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Separation: Keep dressing separate until ready to serve for optimal texture.

Freezing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Not Recommended: Freezing is not ideal as it affects the texture of fresh ingredients like spinach and strawberries.
• Alternative: Consider freezing only the vinaigrette if you have leftovers, which can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Spinach Salad with Strawberry Balsamic

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm any leftover salad on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This is best for components like nuts that can be served slightly warm.

• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 20-30 seconds on low power to prevent wilting. Stir after each interval until warmed through.

• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until just warmed. This method helps keep textures intact while warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic?

Strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is a vibrant dish combining fresh spinach, strawberries, avocado, nuts, and feta cheese, all drizzled with a homemade strawberry balsamic vinaigrette.

How long does it take to prepare this salad?

The preparation time for this salad is approximately 20 minutes, making it an easy option for lunch or as a side dish.

Can I customize my strawberry spinach salad?

Absolutely! You can customize your strawberry spinach salad by adding different fruits, nuts, or cheeses based on your preferences or dietary needs.

What should I serve with strawberry spinach salad?

This refreshing salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal but also serves nicely as an accompaniment to many main dishes.

Final Thoughts

The strawberry spinach salad with strawberry balsamic is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With its combination of sweet strawberries and creamy avocado balanced by tangy dressing, it appeals to many palates. Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings or dressings for your perfect version!