Strawberry Spinach Salad With Feta

Name: Strawberry Spinach Salad With Feta
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups of fresh spinach leaves; 2 cups of sliced strawberries; 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts; 1/4 cup of balsamic vinaigrette

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Recipes

I love making Strawberry Spinach Salad With Feta because it’s a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that just burst in your mouth. The fresh strawberries add a beautiful color and natural sweetness, perfectly complemented by the creamy feta cheese. It's my go-to dish for summer gatherings or when I crave a healthy, refreshing meal. Toss in some walnuts for a crunchy texture, and you’ve got yourself a delicious salad that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Trust me, you’ll want to share this with everyone!

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:19:34.457Z

When I first stumbled upon the combination of strawberries and spinach, I was skeptical. But after the first bite, I was hooked! The earthy flavor of spinach paired with the sweetness of strawberries creates a perfect balance. I often experiment with dressings, but a simple balsamic vinaigrette really elevates the dish without overpowering it.

What I love most about this salad is its versatility. You can easily swap in different nuts, cheese, or even add grilled chicken for a heartier meal. It’s the kind of dish that’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it ideal for picnics or get-togethers. Give it a try and see how it becomes a staple in your kitchen, too!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The perfect blend of sweet strawberries and savory feta
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy days
A visually stunning dish that's sure to impress

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Selecting fresh ingredients is key to this Strawberry Spinach Salad. Look for vibrant green spinach leaves, free from wilting or browning. Ideally, the strawberries should be ripe, juicy, and bright red, which will enhance both the taste and visual appeal of the dish. If you can find local, organic strawberries, they often have a more intense flavor that elevates the overall profile of the salad. You can replace feta cheese with goat cheese for a tangier twist, or use a vegan feta alternative if needed.

The walnuts in this recipe not only contribute a lovely crunch but also provide healthy fats and protein. For those with nut allergies, sunflower seeds would make an excellent substitute, maintaining the textural contrast the recipe intends. The balsamic vinaigrette is another highlight—try to find a quality brand, or whip your own using equal parts balsamic vinegar and olive oil, plus a hint of honey or mustard for added flavor. This ensures that the dressing perfectly balances the sweet and savory elements of the salad.

Perfect Preparation Techniques

When preparing the salad, it's best to wash the spinach just before use to maintain its crispness. Spin the leaves in a salad spinner or gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. This step helps prevent the dressing from becoming diluted. As you slice the strawberries, aim for even thickness so they present well and mix seamlessly with the spinach. I recommend cutting them into quarters or thick slices for a more substantial bite, depending on your preference.

Finally, when dressing the salad, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette slowly while gently tossing the ingredients to avoid bruising the spinach and strawberries. Aim for a glossy coating on the leaves rather than a puddle of dressing at the bottom of the bowl. This attention to detail allows each bite to capture the right amount of flavor without overwhelming any of the salad components.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a colorful and delicious salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 cups of fresh spinach leaves
2 cups of sliced strawberries
1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup of chopped walnuts
1/4 cup of balsamic vinaigrette

You can easily customize the ingredients to match your taste!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious salad:

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, toss together the spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta, and chopped walnuts.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine until everything is well coated.

Serve

Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light meal.

Enjoy this delightful salad with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the strawberries in a little balsamic vinegar before adding them to the salad.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare components in advance to save time. Wash and dry the spinach a day before, and store it in an airtight container. Slice the strawberries a few hours prior, keeping them in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. However, avoid mixing the salad until just before serving to prevent sogginess from the dressing.

If you plan to serve this salad later, consider keeping the dressing separate until it's time to eat. This prevents the greens from wilting and helps maintain the salad's texture. For any leftovers, store them in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to two days, but be mindful that the salad may lose its crunch as it sits.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to customize this salad according to your tastes! Adding grilled chicken can transform it into a satisfying main dish, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. You could also add avocado for an extra creaminess, or incorporate other fruits like blueberries or mandarin oranges to diversify the flavors even further.

For an added punch of flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like mint or basil. These herbs pair beautifully with strawberries and can elevate the salad's profile while keeping it fresh. Experimenting with different nut types, such as pecans or almonds, can also provide new textures and flavors—just remember to toast them lightly for maximum flavor enhancement!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time but add the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or even a dairy-free cheese alternative if you're looking for a different flavor or a vegan option.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can make this salad more filling.