Strawberry Spinach Salad
Looking for a refreshing, vibrant, and healthy salad that screams summer? This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta & Pecans is your perfect go-to! It’s colorful, packed with flavor, and comes together in just minutes—ideal for busy weeknights, backyard BBQs, or any time you want a fresh, feel-good meal.
This recipe was inspired by one of my favorite summer farmers’ market finds.
After coming home with a basket of juicy strawberries, I remembered a similar salad I once had at a friend’s brunch.
It was so fresh and flavorful that I knew I had to recreate it—with my own twist.
I swapped in candied pecans for extra crunch and used a light balsamic dressing to tie everything together.
It quickly became a family favorite, and I hope it becomes one of yours too!
Why you’ll love this
1. Bursting with Flavor – The sweet strawberries, salty feta, and crunchy pecans are perfectly balanced by the tangy balsamic dressing.
2. Ready in 15 Minutes – No cooking required! It’s as easy as chop, toss, and serve.
3. Nutritious and Light – Loaded with vitamins, antioxidants, and heart-healthy fats.
4. Versatile & Customizable – Add grilled chicken, swap in walnuts, or toss in avocado—the options are endless.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Cuisines: American, Mediterranean-Inspired
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $8–$10
Equipment:
- Large salad bowl
- Knife & cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Small jar or whisk for dressing
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup candied pecans (or regular toasted pecans)
- ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
- Optional: ½ avocado, sliced
For the Balsamic Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the dressing: In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify. Set aside.
- Prep the salad ingredients: Rinse and dry the spinach. Slice the strawberries, red onion, and avocado (if using).
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, layer the spinach, strawberries, red onion, feta, and pecans.
- Dress and toss: Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Serve: Plate the salad immediately and enjoy the burst of fresh, sweet, and savory flavors.
Nutrition Facts
(Per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 320mg
Tips for Success
1. Use fresh, ripe strawberries – The sweeter the berry, the better the flavor balance in the salad.
2. Don’t overdress the salad – Add the dressing gradually and toss gently to coat without wilting the spinach.
3. Chill the salad bowl – For an extra refreshing experience, keep your salad bowl chilled before assembling.
4. Serve immediately after dressing – This keeps the spinach crisp and prevents sogginess.
Strawberry Spinach Salad
Ingredients
For The Salad
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1½ cups fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup candied pecans or regular toasted pecans
- ¼ small red onion thinly sliced
- Optional: ½ avocado sliced
For the Balsamic Dressing
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Make the dressing: In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify. Set aside.
- Prep the salad ingredients: Rinse and dry the spinach. Slice the strawberries, red onion, and avocado (if using).
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, layer the spinach, strawberries, red onion, feta, and pecans.
- Dress and toss: Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Serve: Plate the salad immediately and enjoy the burst of fresh, sweet, and savory flavors.
Notes
2. Don’t overdress the salad – Add the dressing gradually and toss gently to coat without wilting the spinach.
3. Chill the salad bowl – For an extra refreshing experience, keep your salad bowl chilled before assembling.
4. Serve immediately after dressing – This keeps the spinach crisp and prevents sogginess.
Common Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prep all the ingredients and store them separately. Add the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh.
What other nuts can I use instead of pecans?
Walnuts, almonds, or pistachios work well. Toast them for extra flavor!
Is there a dairy-free option?
Absolutely. Use a dairy-free feta alternative or skip the cheese entirely.
Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even quinoa make great additions to bulk up the salad.
I hope this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta & Pecans brings some freshness and joy to your table.
Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, prepping lunch, or enjoying it as a light dinner, it’s a simple, feel-good recipe that never disappoints.
Enjoy and happy cooking!
