15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Name: 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 oz baby spinach (fresh); 3 cups strawberries (cleaned and hulled, sliced); 1 cup blueberries; 1/3 cup feta cheese (crumbled); 1 cup pecans (toasted, some of them chopped); 1 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)

Published: June 22, 2025

by Saphira

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With a total time of only 15 minutes, you can whip up this salad in no time.
Vibrant Flavors: The combination of strawberries, blueberries, and tangy Feta creates a deliciously balanced taste.
Versatile Dish: Great as a side for dinner, or as a main dish for lunch; it fits any meal occasion.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants from fresh fruits and greens, making it a nutritious choice.
Crowd-Pleaser: This salad is always a hit at potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings, appealing to both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad effectively, having the right tools can make all the difference. Below are essential tools you’ll need to create this refreshing dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Sharp knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowl
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes slicing fruits easy and quick, ensuring even pieces for better presentation.
Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
Whisk: A whisk helps blend the dressing thoroughly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Ingredients

For the Dressing

1 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)

For the Salad

10 oz baby spinach (fresh)
3 cups strawberries (cleaned and hulled, sliced)
1 cup blueberries
1/3 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
1 cup pecans (toasted, some of them chopped)

How to Make 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar).
Whisk until well blended and smooth.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, add the fresh baby spinach.
Top with sliced strawberries and blueberries.
Sprinkle crumbled Feta cheese over the top.
Add toasted pecans for crunch.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad just before serving.
Toss gently to combine all ingredients without bruising the fruit.

Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad!

How to Serve 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

This vibrant and fresh salad is perfect for any occasion. It can be served as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or even at parties. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your Strawberry Spinach Salad.

As a Side Dish

Perfect pairing: Serve alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a balanced meal.
Elegant touch: This salad complements roasted vegetables beautifully.

At Picnics and Potlucks

Crowd favorite: Its bright colors and flavors make it an attractive addition to any gathering.
Easy transport: Pack the salad in a sealed container, keeping the dressing separate until serving.

For Special Occasions

Holiday delight: The vibrant colors make it a stunning centerpiece on festive tables.
Buffet-style serving: Place in a large bowl for guests to help themselves.

How to Perfect 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Creating the perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad is easy with these simple tips. Follow these suggestions for maximum flavor and satisfaction.

Use fresh ingredients: Choose ripe strawberries and fresh spinach for the best taste.
Toast pecans: Toasting enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the salad.
Make dressing ahead: Prepare the balsamic dressing in advance to save time when serving.
Add variety: Mix in other fruits like apples or oranges for additional flavors and textures.
Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the refrigerator for a few minutes allows flavors to meld.

Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Spinach Salad can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this salad perfectly.

Grilled Chicken Breast – Lightly seasoned grilled chicken adds protein without overpowering the salad’s flavors.
Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty quinoa pilaf brings texture and nutrition, making it a hearty addition.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies provide warmth and earthiness that contrast nicely with the salad’s freshness.
Garlic Breadsticks – Crispy breadsticks serve as a great vehicle for enjoying any leftover dressing from the salad.
Vegetable Soup – A light soup pairs well, especially on cooler days, offering comfort alongside freshness.
Chickpea Salad – This protein-packed option adds more fiber and complements the fruits in your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad to new heights. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the washing step – Always clean your spinach and strawberries thoroughly. This ensures freshness and removes any pesticides.
Not toasting nuts – Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor. Simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until golden.
Using stale ingredients – Freshness is key in salads. Check the expiration dates on your feta cheese and ensure your spinach is vibrant and crisp.
Overdressing the salad – A light hand with dressing maintains balance. Start with a smaller amount, taste, and add more if needed.
Cutting fruits too early – Prepare your strawberries and blueberries just before serving. This keeps them fresh and prevents mushiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container.
It will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to avoid sogginess.

Freezing 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture and taste.
However, you can freeze leftover pecans separately for future use.

Reheating 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the salad for about 5-10 minutes.
Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between to avoid overheating.
Stovetop – Warm gently over low heat in a pan for a few minutes, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad:

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare most components ahead of time but keep the dressing separate until serving for best results.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re looking for alternatives, try goat cheese or skip cheese altogether for a lighter option.

How do I customize my 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad?

Feel free to add other fruits like mango or kiwi, or include grilled chicken for added protein!

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just store components separately, especially the dressing, to maintain freshness throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only quick and easy to prepare but also colorful and nutritious. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various fruits or proteins based on personal preference. Don’t hesitate; give this refreshing dish a try at your next gathering or as a side dish during dinner!

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