Description
This refreshing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Featuring fresh baby spinach, ripe strawberries, creamy feta cheese, and optional toasted walnuts, it’s dressed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette that brings all the ingredients together beautifully. Ideal for a light lunch, side dish, or healthy snack, this no-cook salad comes together quickly and offers a nutritious boost with vibrant colors and textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup ripe strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts (optional), toasted
Dressing
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt and pat dry. Slice the ripe strawberries into even pieces to ensure every bite has balanced flavor.
- Combine Base Ingredients: Place the cleaned spinach and sliced strawberries into a large salad bowl, mixing gently to combine without damaging the leaves or fruit.
- Add Walnuts: If using walnuts, chop them coarsely and sprinkle evenly over the salad to add crunch and nuttiness.
- Add Feta Cheese: Crumble the feta cheese over the top of the salad for a creamy, tangy flavor contrast.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until the dressing is emulsified and well combined.
- Toss Salad: Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad just before serving, then gently toss all components together, taking care not to bruise the strawberries or wilt the spinach.
Notes
- To toast walnuts, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned.
- For a nuttier flavor, substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds.
- Use fresh strawberries at peak ripeness for the best sweet taste.
- This salad is best served immediately to maintain the texture of the spinach and strawberries.
- For a vegan version, omit feta cheese or substitute with vegan cheese alternatives.
