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Strawberry Spinach Salad
Isla Marie

Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe

This Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe features fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, red onion, and almonds tossed in a sweet-tangy balsamic dressing. Gluten-free, vegan-optional, and ready in 15 minutes, it serves 4 as a main or 6 as a side. Below, you’ll find ingredients, equipment, instructions, and tips for a delightful, fresh salad.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Gluten-Free
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups fresh baby spinach: Washed and dried.
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries: Hulled and sliced.
  • 1/4 cup red onion: Thinly sliced.
  • 1/3 cup sliced almonds: Toasted for crunch (or walnuts/pecans).
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Optional for creamy tang (omit for vegan).
  • 2 tbsp fresh mint: Chopped for brightness (optional).
Balsamic Dressing
  • 3 tbsp olive oil: For richness.
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar: For tangy sweetness.
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup: Or honey non-vegan option.
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard: For depth.
  • 1/4 tsp salt: To taste.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground.

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl: For tossing salad.
  • Small Bowl or Jar: For mixing dressing.
  • Cutting Board and Knife: For slicing strawberries and onion.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy.
  • Tongs or Salad Servers: For mixing and serving.
  • Small Skillet (Optional): For toasting nuts.

Method
 

  1. Prep Ingredients: Wash and dry spinach. Hull and slice strawberries. Thinly slice red onion. Chop mint (if using).
  2. Toast Nuts (Optional): In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast almonds for 2–3 minutes until golden, stirring frequently. Set aside to cool.
  3. Make Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, red onion, toasted almonds, feta (if using), and mint (if using).
  5. Dress and Serve: Drizzle dressing over salad and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately for maximum freshness.

Notes

Spinach Prep: Ensure spinach is dry to avoid a watery salad; use a salad spinner.
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; confirm balsamic vinegar is certified gluten-free.
Vegan Option: Omit feta or use vegan cheese crumbles.
Make-Ahead: Prep veggies and dressing up to a day ahead; assemble just before serving.
Nut-Free Option: Swap almonds for sunflower seeds or omit.