Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. This vibrant salad combines fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, and crunchy pecans, all drizzled with a homemade balsamic dressing. It’s not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for a light lunch, side dish at gatherings, or a refreshing summer meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and quick steps, this salad can be ready in just 15 minutes.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet strawberries, tangy cheese, and crunchy nuts creates an irresistible taste sensation.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or side dish; it pairs well with various proteins like chicken or turkey.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals from leafy greens and fruits, this salad is as healthy as it is delicious.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to swap out the cheese or nuts based on your preferences for endless variations.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans efficiently, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Perfect for achieving a smooth vinaigrette by blending the dressing ingredients together effectively.

Ingredients

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)

How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base

Start by combining fresh spinach or baby kale with sliced strawberries and your choice of crumbled cheese in a large mixing bowl. Gently toss them together until they are evenly distributed.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze or vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined to create a smooth dressing.

Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together gently to ensure that all ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Top your salad with candied pecans for added flavor and crunch. Serve immediately as a refreshing dish perfect for any meal! Enjoy your delicious Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans!

How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Serving Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is a delightful experience that can elevate any meal. This salad pairs well with various dishes and can be served in creative ways.

As a Main Course

• Enjoy this salad as a light main dish by adding grilled chicken or turkey for extra protein.

With Grilled Veggies

• Serve alongside grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious plate.

As a Side Salad

• Pair it with your favorite roasted meats or fish to complement the flavors without overwhelming them.

Picnic Delight

• Pack individual servings in mason jars for an easy, portable option perfect for picnics or lunch outings.

How to Perfect Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

To ensure your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is always at its best, consider these simple tips:

• Choose fresh ingredients: Use fresh spinach and ripe strawberries for optimal flavor and texture.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance and toss it just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
• Balance flavors: Adjust the sweetness of the honey based on your preference and the ripeness of the strawberries.
• Add crunch: For extra texture, consider adding more nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds or almonds.
• Experiment with cheese: While feta is delicious, goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative can add unique flavors.
• Dress lightly: Start with less dressing; you can always add more if needed to avoid soggy greens.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

This refreshing salad pairs nicely with various side dishes that enhance its vibrant flavors. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Tender pieces of marinated chicken cooked on skewers offer a savory contrast.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty quinoa dish mixed with herbs provides a wholesome grain alternative.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet and savory roasted sweet potatoes complement the strawberries beautifully.
4. Vegetable Stir-Fry – A colorful mix of stir-fried vegetables adds crunch and nutrition to your meal.
5. Cheesy Garlic Bread – Crispy bread topped with garlic butter and cheese creates a comforting side option.
6. Chickpea Salad – A protein-packed chickpea salad seasoned with herbs rounds out the meal perfectly.
7. Fruit Platter – A variety of fresh fruits can lighten the palate between bites of the savory salad.
8. Whole Grain Pasta Salad – A chilled pasta salad tossed with olive oil, veggies, and herbs makes for a satisfying addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make errors when preparing a Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans. Here are some common mistakes and tips on how to avoid them.

• Skipping the wash: Always wash your spinach and strawberries before use. This removes dirt and pesticides, ensuring a fresher taste.
• Not balancing flavors: If your salad tastes bland, check the dressing. Adjust the balsamic vinegar and honey for a better flavor balance.
• Overdressing the salad: Use just enough dressing to coat the salad lightly. Too much dressing can overpower the ingredients and make it soggy.
• Forgetting texture: Include crunchy elements like candied pecans to add texture. A salad that lacks crunch can feel uninteresting.
• Using stale nuts: Ensure your pecans are fresh. Stale nuts can ruin the flavor of your salad, so always check their smell and crunchiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness.

Freezing Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad as it affects texture and flavor.

Reheating Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

• Oven: Not applicable; salads are best served cold.
• Microwave: Avoid reheating as it will wilt the greens.
• Stovetop: Not recommended; salads should be enjoyed fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans.

Can I make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare all ingredients in advance but keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

What other toppings can I add to my Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?

Consider adding grilled chicken, avocado, or seeds for extra protein and nutrition.

How do I choose ripe strawberries for my salad?

Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and fragrant. Avoid those with white or green patches.

Is there a way to make this salad vegan?

Yes! Simply omit feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.

Final Thoughts

This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is a delightful blend of fresh flavors and textures that make it perfect for any occasion. It’s versatile too; feel free to customize it by adding other fruits or proteins based on your preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy a healthy meal that’s both satisfying and delicious!