Summertime always brings back fond memories of picnics in the park with family and friends. One of my favorite go-to dishes for these outdoor gatherings is a vibrant, flavorful Strawberry Spinach Salad. This salad combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the earthiness of spinach, creating a perfect balance that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
I remember the first time I encountered this delightful salad was during a visit to a quaint little bistro while traveling through the countryside. The chef there shared that the inspiration behind this salad was the abundance of fresh strawberries during the summer season. Ever since then, it has become a staple in my summer recipes, especially for family barbecues and potlucks.
What I love about this Strawberry Spinach Salad is its simplicity and versatility. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings or when you want a healthy yet delicious meal in no time. The combination of ingredients is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. Spinach, known for its high iron and vitamin content, pairs beautifully with the juicy strawberries, which are rich in antioxidants.
The dressing is what ties everything together. Made with extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and black pepper, it adds a delightful tangy sweetness that complements the salad perfectly. I often experiment with the dressing by substituting maple syrup with honey for a different flavor profile. Both variations work wonderfully, giving the salad a unique twist each time.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, adding some candied pecans or walnuts can elevate the texture of the salad. If you’re a fan of cheese, goat cheese is a creamy addition that pairs well with the strawberries, but feta is an excellent alternative that adds a slightly sharper taste.
Whether you’re hosting a summer party or looking for a light, nutritious meal, this Strawberry Spinach Salad is sure to impress. It’s a dish that brings people together, evokes the essence of summer, and leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Making Strawberry Spinach Salad
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Ingredients
- 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 pint strawberries, sliced (2 cups)
- ¼ cup olive oil (extra virgin)
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- ¾ cup goat cheese, crumbled (or feta)
- 5 cups spinach, fresh
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup (or honey)
- ½ cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
- In a large bowl, mix together the spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, crumbled goat cheese, and bacon.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Serve the salad right away to enjoy its fresh flavors.
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of cheese in this salad?
Yes, you can substitute the goat cheese with feta cheese or even blue cheese, depending on your preference.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can use roasted nuts such as pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
How can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the dressing and chop the ingredients in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving.
Is there a way to make the dressing creamier?
For a creamier dressing, you can add 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise while whisking the other dressing ingredients together.
What other greens can I use instead of spinach?
Arugula, mixed salad greens, or even kale can be great substitutes for spinach in this salad.
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Combine them just before eating to maintain freshness.
Strawberry Spinach Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups sliced strawberries 1 pint
- 5 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
- ¾ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
- ½ cup cooked crumbled bacon
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tsp pure maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, red onion, goat cheese, and bacon.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to mix everything well.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh flavors!
