Save to Pins As the warm breezes of spring and summer arrive, there's nothing more refreshing than a vibrant bowl of Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad. This delightful combination brings together the season's sweetest strawberries with tender baby spinach leaves, creamy feta cheese, and the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds. It's a symphony of textures and flavors that celebrates the brightness of the season.
Save to Pins This salad brings back memories of summer garden parties and leisurely weekend brunches. The combination of juicy strawberries and creamy feta creates an irresistible contrast that has made this a classic favorite. Each forkful offers a perfect balance of flavors - the sweetness of ripe berries, the subtle pepperiness of fresh spinach, the saltiness of feta, and the nutty warmth of toasted almonds.
Ingredients
- 150 g (5 oz) baby spinach, washed and dried
- 250 g (8 oz) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 100 g (3.5 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
- 50 g (1/2 cup) sliced almonds
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Toast the almonds
- Toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Prepare the dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the salad
- In a large salad bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta, and red onion (if using).
- Dress the salad
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Finish and serve
- Sprinkle the toasted almonds on top just before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
The key to this salad is using the freshest ingredients possible. Look for strawberries that are fully ripe but still firm, and baby spinach that has bright, crisp leaves. Toast the almonds just before assembling for maximum crunch and flavor. The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days - just bring it to room temperature and give it a good shake before using.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This versatile salad welcomes creative adaptations. For a dairy-free version, substitute the feta with avocado slices. If you prefer a different cheese, try goat cheese or blue cheese for an interesting flavor profile. Add grilled chicken, salmon, or a scoop of quinoa to transform this side dish into a satisfying main course. In late summer, try substituting or combining the strawberries with fresh blueberries or raspberries for a different seasonal twist.
Serviervorschläge
This beautiful salad makes a stunning addition to any table. Serve it alongside grilled fish or chicken for a complete meal, or bring it to your next potluck for a dish that's sure to impress. For an elegant presentation, arrange the salad on individual plates and drizzle the dressing artfully over the top. Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé wine to complement the sweet and tangy flavors of the dish.
Save to Pins This Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta and Toasted Almonds captures the essence of seasonal eating - simple ingredients at their peak, combined with minimal effort to create something truly special. Whether it's for a quick lunch, a dinner party starter, or a refreshing side dish, this colorful salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. The balance of sweet berries, tangy cheese, and crunchy nuts creates a delightful eating experience that celebrates the bounty of the season.
Questions & Answers
- → How do I toast almonds perfectly?
Toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently for 3-5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove promptly to avoid burning.
- → Can I substitute feta cheese with another cheese?
Yes, goat cheese can be used as a creamy alternative providing a slightly tangier flavor while maintaining texture contrast.
- → What dressing complements this salad best?
A dressing made from extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper perfectly balances the sweetness of the strawberries and the richness of the cheese.
- → Is this salad suitable for specific diets?
Yes, it’s naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, catering to those dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
- → What additions can make the salad heartier?
Adding grilled chicken or cooked quinoa can turn this light dish into a more filling option without overwhelming the fresh flavors.