Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe

Looking for a refreshing dish that’s both sweet and savory? This delicious strawberry spinach salad combines juicy berries, creamy goat cheese, crunchy pecans, and a tangy balsamic poppy seed dressing for the perfect summer salad. It’s a delightful way to enjoy seasonal produce and a great option for lunch, brunch, or light dinners.

Strawberry Spinach Salad

Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

This vibrant salad features strawberries, spinach, goat cheese, and toasted nuts tossed in a flavorful balsamic dressing.

• Author: Chef Rina
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad:

• 10 oz baby spinach (or a mix of spinach and arugula)

• 1 lb strawberries, trimmed and sliced 1/4 inch thick

• 1/4 cup torn fresh basil leaves

• 1/4–1/2 cup thinly sliced red onions

• 2/3 cup crumbled goat cheese (plus extra for garnish)

• 3/4–1 cup toasted pecans or slivered almonds (or optional pecan brittle)

Strawberry Salad Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar (white balsamic preferred)

• 1 1/2 tbsp maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 tsp poppy seeds

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1 garlic clove, finely minced

Optional Pecan Brittle:

• 1 cup pecans

• 1 tsp poppy seeds

• 1–2 tbsp maple syrup (enough to coat)

• Pinch of salt and pepper

 

Instructions

1. If using, prepare the pecan brittle by toasting pecans in a skillet over medium heat until fragrant (about 5 minutes). Season with salt and pepper. Add maple syrup and poppy seeds, let bubble for 30–60 seconds, then cool on a plate.

2. Mix dressing ingredients in a small bowl or jar. For a smoother texture, use a mini blender and stir in poppy seeds afterward.

3. To reduce onion sharpness, soak slices in cold salted water. Drain before using.

4. In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, basil, onions, and most of the nuts. Re-whisk dressing and drizzle enough to lightly coat. Toss gently.

5. Add crumbled goat cheese, saving a few tablespoons for topping.

6. Transfer salad to a serving dish, garnish with remaining goat cheese and nuts.

Notes

• Use smaller strawberries from the farmer’s market for best results. Halve or quarter them.

• If using white balsamic, reduce maple syrup to 1 tbsp.

• Make dressing up to 3 days in advance. Brittle can also be prepped ahead.

• Cold goat cheese crumbles easier; prep and chill.

• Assemble salad right before serving for freshness.

• Feta can be substituted, but opt for mild, sheep’s milk feta stored in water.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6 servings
• Calories: 206 kcal
• Sugar: 8.3 g
• Sodium: 209.2 mg
• Fat: 16.5 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.7 g
• Carbohydrates: 13.2 g
• Fiber: 3.2 g
• Protein: 3.9 g
• Cholesterol: 3.3 mg

Keywords: feta cheese, honey, poppy seed dressing, red onion, sesame seeds, worcestershire sauce, goat cheese, maple syrup, salad, strawberry jam, spinach, homemade balsamic vinaigrette

FAQs About Strawberry Spinach Salad

More Strawberry Spinach Recipe Ideas

Check out more delicious recipes featuring strawberries and greens:

• “Try our Overnight Berry Breakfast Casserole for a fruity morning treat.”
• “These Easy Strawberry Shortcake Bars are a crowd favorite.”
• “Beat the heat with Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream.”
• “Enjoy fresh flavors with this Sunshine Salad.”
• “Our Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad is summer on a plate.”
• “Make brunch special with Six Avocado Toast Recipes.”
• “For a warm twist, try Baked Feta Eggs with Spinach.”
• “Meal prep made easy with Spinach Feta Egg Muffins.”
• “Mix sweet and savory in this Creamy Peach Salad.”
• “This Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad is perfect for lunchboxes.”
• “Fresh and filling Avocado Shrimp Salad you’ll crave.”

Final Thoughts on Strawberry Spinach Salad

This strawberry spinach salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors with textures that impress. Whether you’re hosting brunch or prepping a light dinner, this dish delivers flavor and color in every bite. Add it to your weekly rotation and let fresh produce shine.

Let’s connect! Follow me for more Joylicious Recipes:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Pinterest