Save Brighten up your seasonal table with this Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad, a refreshing combination that perfectly captures the essence of spring and summer. This vibrant dish balances the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries with the savory notes of feta and a satisfying crunch from toasted almonds.
Save This salad is not just about taste; it is a visual feast as well. The deep greens of the baby spinach against the bright red of sliced strawberries and white crumbled feta make it a beautiful centerpiece for any meal, from casual picnics to elegant spring dinners.
Ingredients
- 150 g (5 oz) baby spinach, washed and dried
- 250 g (8 oz) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 100 g (3.5 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
- 50 g (1/2 cup) sliced almonds
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Toast the Almonds
- Toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Step 3: Combine Salad Components
- In a large salad bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta, and red onion (if using).
- Step 4: Toss with Dressing
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle the toasted almonds on top just before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, dry the spinach leaves thoroughly after washing so the dressing adheres well. Always toast the almonds fresh for maximum fragrance, but be sure to let them cool before adding to the salad to prevent the greens from wilting.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Feel free to customize this salad by substituting goat cheese for feta if you prefer a creamier finish. To turn this side into a heartier meal, add grilled chicken or cooked quinoa. For an extra burst of freshness, toss in a handful of fresh basil or mint leaves.
Serviervorschläge
This salad pairs beautifully with a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled rosé. It serves as an excellent accompaniment to grilled fish or lighter summer poultry dishes.
Save Enjoy this delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad as a simple yet sophisticated celebration of fresh ingredients. It is a versatile dish that brings a touch of summer to your plate every time.
Kitchen Guide
- → How do you toast almonds for the salad?
Toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Let cool before adding.
- → Can this be made ahead of time?
Prepare the toasted almonds and dressing ahead, but toss the spinach and strawberries just before serving to keep them fresh and crisp.
- → What alternatives are there to feta cheese?
Goat cheese can be substituted for a similar creamy texture with a slightly different tang.
- → Is the dressing sweet or tangy?
The dressing balances sweet honey with tangy balsamic vinegar and a hint of mustard for complexity.
- → Can additional proteins be added?
Grilled chicken or quinoa can be included for a more filling variation.