15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

This strawberry spinach salad has become my summertime signature dish that always disappears first at family gatherings. The vibrant mix of fresh berries, creamy feta, and crunchy pecans creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures, all brought together with a homemade balsamic glaze that elevates this beyond an ordinary salad.

I first created this recipe when hosting an impromptu backyard gathering with no time to prepare something elaborate. The combination was so successful that guests began requesting it specifically for future gatherings.

Ingredients

• Baby spinach fresh providing a tender base with mild flavor and packed with nutrients
• Strawberries adding natural sweetness and vibrant color choose firm bright red berries for best flavor
• Blueberries offering antioxidants and a beautiful color contrast look for plump berries with a silvery bloom
• Feta cheese bringing a salty creaminess that balances the sweet berries traditional Greek feta works best
• Pecans contributing essential crunch and nutty flavor toast them fresh for maximum flavor
• Balsamic vinegar creating the foundation for the glaze select a good quality aged variety
• Honey or brown sugar balancing the acidity of the vinegar with natural sweetness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Balsamic Glaze

Combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Watch carefully as the mixture begins to bubble the aroma will intensify as it reduces. Allow it to gently boil then reduce to a simmer stirring occasionally to prevent burning. The reduction process takes approximately 10 minutes until the mixture coats the back of a spoon. The glaze will continue to thicken as it cools so avoid overcooking.

Toast the Pecans

Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes until fragrant. Keep a close eye on them as nuts can burn quickly. Once cooled roughly chop half of them while leaving the rest whole for varied texture throughout the salad.

Assemble the Base

In a large bowl gently combine the baby spinach strawberry slices and blueberries. The key is handling the berries delicately to maintain their integrity while ensuring even distribution throughout the greens. This creates the fresh foundation of the salad.

Add the Finishing Touches

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly across the salad mixture. Divide the salad into individual serving bowls for a more elegant presentation. Top each portion with both whole and chopped toasted pecans creating visual interest and textural contrast. Finally drizzle each serving with the cooled balsamic glaze allowing it to cascade over the ingredients.

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The homemade balsamic glaze truly transforms this salad from ordinary to extraordinary. I discovered its magic after experimenting with various dressings and nothing compared to the rich complex flavor that develops during the reduction process. My grandmother always insisted that taking a few extra minutes to make your own dressing was the secret to an unforgettable salad.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be partially prepped ahead of time to make assembly even quicker when needed. The balsamic glaze can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply warm it slightly before using to achieve the proper consistency for drizzling. The pecans can also be toasted several days ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

For maximum freshness I recommend washing and drying the spinach up to two days ahead but slice the strawberries just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy. When preparing for a party I often set up a salad station with individual components allowing guests to build their own bowls with their preferred ratios of ingredients.

Seasonal Adaptations

This versatile salad template works beautifully with seasonal substitutions throughout the year. In late summer replace some or all berries with fresh peaches or nectarines for a different sweet note. During fall try adding sliced apples or pears with dried cranberries and walnuts instead of pecans. Winter variations might include segmented citrus fruits and pomegranate arils which provide similar bright pops of color and flavor.

The key is maintaining the balance between leafy greens crunchy nuts creamy cheese and sweet fruit regardless of which specific ingredients you choose. This approach ensures you can enjoy a version of this salad year round using the freshest produce available.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled proteins making it perfect alongside chicken breast salmon fillets or even a simple steak. For a complete vegetarian meal add a scoop of cooked quinoa or farro directly to the salad for additional protein and texture.

For entertaining I love serving this salad as part of a Mediterranean inspired spread alongside hummus roasted vegetables and warm pita bread. It also makes an excellent starter course for a summer dinner party especially when served in individual portions on chilled plates. The vibrant colors create an impressive presentation that signals the beginning of a special meal.

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Common Questions

→ Can I make the balsamic glaze ahead of time?

Yes! The balsamic glaze can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before serving, as it will thicken when cold. You may need to thin it slightly with a teaspoon of warm water if it becomes too thick.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you don't have feta or prefer an alternative, goat cheese works wonderfully for a tangy flavor profile. For milder options, try fresh mozzarella pearls or even blue cheese if you enjoy stronger flavors. For a dairy-free version, avocado provides a similar creamy texture.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries in this salad?

Fresh strawberries are ideal for texture and presentation, but in a pinch, thawed frozen strawberries will work. Be sure to drain them well to prevent excess moisture. The salad is at its best with fresh berries, as they provide the perfect juicy crunch against the spinach.

→ How can I prepare this salad in advance for a gathering?

For best results, prepare all components separately and assemble just before serving. Store washed and dried spinach in a sealed container with paper towels to absorb moisture. Slice berries, toast nuts, and make the glaze ahead of time. Combine everything when ready to serve to prevent wilting and maintain optimal texture.

→ What protein would pair well with this salad to make it a complete meal?

Grilled chicken breast is a classic choice that complements the flavors beautifully. For seafood options, grilled salmon or shrimp work wonderfully. Vegetarian proteins like chickpeas, quinoa, or grilled halloumi cheese are excellent alternatives that maintain the Mediterranean profile of the dish.

→ How can I tell when my balsamic glaze is reduced enough?

The balsamic glaze is ready when it's reduced by about half its original volume and coats the back of a spoon. When you draw your finger across the coated spoon, it should leave a clear path that doesn't immediately fill in. Remember that the glaze will continue to thicken as it cools.