Description
A fresh and vibrant Strawberry & Blueberry Spinach Salad featuring crisp spinach leaves, sweet strawberries, juicy blueberries, crunchy pecans, and tangy feta cheese, all brought together with a simple homemade balsamic vinaigrette dressing. This salad is perfect as a light lunch or a colorful side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and dried
- 1/2 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the salad ingredients: Gather all your fresh produce and other salad components. Make sure the spinach leaves are washed and dried to avoid sogginess. Hull and slice the strawberries, and slice the red onion very thin if you choose to include it.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, blueberries, roughly chopped pecans, and crumbled feta cheese. Add the sliced red onion if using to enhance flavor and texture.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup (if desired for added sweetness), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness or acidity as needed by adding more honey or vinegar to suit your preference.
- Toss the salad: Just before serving, pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss the salad to ensure all components are evenly coated with the dressing without bruising the delicate berries and spinach.
- Serve: Plate the salad immediately for optimal freshness. Optionally, garnish with extra pecans or feta cheese for added texture and flavor. Enjoy this light, nutritious salad as a perfect starter or a refreshing side.
Notes
- For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken or tofu.
- Use maple syrup as a vegan alternative to honey.
- Toast the pecans lightly for a richer nutty flavor.
- Dress the salad just before serving to keep the spinach and berries fresh and crisp.
- This salad can be customized with other berries like raspberries or blackberries.
