This fresh spinach and strawberry salad is a colorful delight! Topped with crunchy pecans, it brings a mix of sweet and crunchy in every bite. With a light dressing, it’s super refreshing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is tender and has a mild flavor, making it perfect for salads. If you don’t have spinach, you can use arugula or mixed greens as a substitute.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add sweetness and color. If strawberries aren’t in season, feel free to use sliced peaches or apples for similar freshness.
Pecans: Toasted pecans add crunch and a nutty flavor. If you have a nut allergy, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds would be great alternatives.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings creaminess and tang. Goat cheese or blue cheese can work instead, depending on your taste preference!
Balsamic Glaze: This adds a sweet and tangy finish. If you can’t find it, a simple mix of balsamic vinegar and honey can work well too!
How Do You Toast Pecans Perfectly?
Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and crunch, which is key in this salad. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a dry skillet and preheat it on medium heat. No oil needed!
- Spread the pecans in an even layer. Stir them often to avoid burning.
- Toast for 3-5 minutes or until they smell fragrant and are slightly darker.
- Remove them from the heat immediately to prevent overcooking.
Taking these extra steps helps make your salad even more delicious and adds a wonderful texture contrast!
Fresh Spinach Strawberry Salad With Crunchy Pecans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach leaves, washed and dried
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1/2 cup pecan halves, toasted
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes toasting the pecans, washing and chopping the veggies, and assembling everything. It’s a quick dish perfect for a light lunch or a side at dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Pecans:
In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the pecan halves. Toast them for about 3-5 minutes while stirring frequently. You’ll know they’re ready when they become fragrant and slightly darker in color. Once toasted, remove from heat and let them cool.
2. Prepare the Salad Base:
Grab a large salad bowl and add the washed and dried baby spinach leaves. This will be the green foundation of your salad!
3. Add Strawberries and Onion:
Next, scatter the halved strawberries and thinly sliced red onion evenly over the spinach. This adds beautiful colors and flavors to your salad!
4. Add the Pecans:
Sprinkle the cooled, toasted pecans on top of the salad. This will add a delightful crunch!
5. Top with Cheese:
Crumble the feta cheese over the salad, giving it a creamy and tangy element that pairs perfectly with the sweet strawberries.
6. Drizzle the Dressing:
Now, drizzle the balsamic glaze evenly across the salad. Toss gently to combine everything, or leave it as is for a beautiful presentation!
7. Season (Optional):
If desired, add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This extra seasoning can enhance the flavors!
8. Serve Immediately:
Enjoy your fresh salad right away! It’s perfect as a light appetizer or a vibrant side dish.
Dig in and enjoy the delightful mix of fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, crunchy toasted pecans, creamy feta, and the sweet tang of balsamic glaze!
FAQ: Fresh Spinach Strawberry Salad With Crunchy Pecans
Can I Use Other Nuts Instead of Pecans?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of pecans, feel free to use walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. Just toast them as you would the pecans to enhance their flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the components in advance! Wash and dry the spinach, slice the strawberries and onions, and toast the pecans. Store each separately in the fridge, then toss everything together with the dressing right before serving for optimal freshness.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a different flavor, try goat cheese or blue cheese instead of feta. For a dairy-free option, use crumbled tofu or a dairy-free cheese alternative that you enjoy!
