Spinach Strawberry Pecan Salad: A Medley of Vibrant Flavors
Imagine the crisp bite of fresh baby spinach, the sweet burst of strawberries, and the satisfying crunch of candied pecans all coming together in a symphony of flavor. With every forkful of this Spinach Strawberry Pecan Salad, you’ll enjoy a light yet indulgent dish that tantalizes your taste buds. This salad not only looks stunning with its vibrant colors but also offers a medley of textures and flavors that make it a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you’re prepping for a quick lunch, a picnic, or celebrating a special occasion, this salad is worth making for its simplicity and the joy it brings to the table.
Craving Something Fresh and Delicious?
What’s better than a salad that not only nourishes but also delights the senses? Have you ever found yourself in need of that perfect dish that looks as good as it tastes, making your guests swoon in delight with just one bite?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Spinach Strawberry Pecan Salad is a true crowd-pleaser. Need quick meal prep? This salad comes together in a flash, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s healthy, requiring only a handful of ingredients to create an unforgettable dish. Kid-friendly and easy to whip up, this salad invites everyone to the table to enjoy a bite of summer. Its balance of sweet and savory keeps you coming back for more, making it a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering Spinach Strawberry Pecan Salad, you will need:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 3/4 cup candied pecans
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 10 oz fresh baby spinach
- 2 cups strawberries, cut into medium-sized pieces
- 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Imagine the rich aroma of balsamic vinegar melding with the sweetness of honey, perfectly dressing the salad. As you slice the strawberries, their bright red hues burst with freshness, and the candied pecans add the perfect sweet crunch. The feta crumbles bring a lovely creaminess that ties it all together in one heavenly dish.
Timing
This Spinach Strawberry Pecan Salad is all about speedy indulgence! You can have this vibrant dish ready in just under 15 minutes, perfect for a last-minute gathering or lunch. If you’re entertaining guests, take your time plating it beautifully for a luxurious presentation that still respects your busy schedule.
Step-by-Step Directions
Let’s dive into the simple steps to make this sensational salad:
In a small bowl or jar, add the balsamic vinegar, honey, and olive oil.
Pour the balsamic glaze, rich and dark, combined with golden honey, and fragrant olive oil. Whisk or shake until well blended; the aroma wafts through the air, captivating your senses.
In a large bowl, add the fresh baby spinach, plump, juicy strawberries, crumbled feta, and thinly sliced red onion.
The contrast of greens and reds exudes vibrancy! Toss the ingredients lightly, allowing the flavors to mingle.
Sprinkle in the candied pecans, their sweetness waiting to be discovered in every bite.
Just before serving, pour the dressing over the top and gently mix until every ingredient is evenly coated with that luscious balsamic glaze.
Each bite will be an explosion of flavor, as the tangy dressing envelops the crispy leaves, succulent strawberries, and creamy feta.
Serve and ENJOY!
Your taste buds are in for a treat with this unforgettable salad!
Nutritional Information
One serving (about 1.5 cups) of this Spinach Strawberry Pecan Salad contains approximately 250 calories. It’s a wholesome option packed with nutrients, but remember to savor the occasional indulgence in those candied pecans! The balance of flavor together with nutritious greens creates a delightful dish that leaves you feeling good.
Healthier Alternatives
Looking for low-sugar or dairy-free swaps? Here are some suggestions:
- Replace honey with a low-calorie sweetener like agave syrup or stevia.
- Utilize a dairy-free feta cheese substitute, made from nuts or tofu, for a vegan-friendly option.
- Use a homemade vinaigrette with fewer ingredients for a lighter dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This Spinach Strawberry Pecan Salad shines on its own but pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal. It’s also fantastic for holiday gatherings or summer picnics, making your table burst with color and freshness. Consider serving it alongside a scoop of sorbet for dessert – a sweet ending to your delightful meal!
Common Mistakes
Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your salad is perfect:
- Don’t over-dress the salad; oversaturation can lead to sogginess.
- Cutting the strawberries too small can cause them to lose their texture; opt for medium-sized pieces for that juicy burst.
- Mixing ingredients too fervently can lead to disheveled greens—we want a beautiful presentation!
Storing Tips
If you have leftovers, store them tightly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you have components separating them is key! To keep the greens crisp, store the dressing separately and add it right before serving. This way, your salad remains vibrant and fresh.
Tempted to Make It ASAP?
Are you ready to treat yourself to this Spinach Strawberry Pecan Salad? It invites you with its lush colors, fantastic flavors, and unique textures. With everything delightful packed into a dish that is as appealing as it is delicious, how could you say no? Get your ingredients ready; your new favorite salad is only moments away!
FAQs
Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Yes! You can prep the ingredients a day early, but dress right before serving to avoid sogginess.What else can I add to this salad?
Feel free to add grilled chicken, avocado, or a sprinkle of goat cheese for a creative touch.How can I make it more filling?
Add some quinoa or farro for a heartier salad that keeps you satisfied longer.Is this salad vegan-friendly?
You can easily make it vegan by omitting the cheese and substituting the honey with a vegan-friendly sweetener.Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Fresh strawberries are preferred, but if using frozen, ensure they are thawed and drained to maintain texture.
Dive into the freshness of this Spinach Strawberry Pecan Salad and take your taste buds on a journey!
Print
Spinach Strawberry Pecan Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light and indulgent salad featuring fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, crunchy candied pecans, and creamy feta, all brought together with a balsamic vinaigrette.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 3/4 cup candied pecans
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 10 oz fresh baby spinach
- 2 cups strawberries, cut into medium-sized pieces
- 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar, add the balsamic vinegar, honey, and olive oil. Whisk or shake until well blended.
- In a large bowl, add the fresh baby spinach, strawberries, feta, and red onion. Toss lightly to combine.
- Sprinkle in the candied pecans.
- Just before serving, pour the dressing over the salad and gently mix until all ingredients are coated.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container; keep dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No Cooking Required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
