Spinach salad

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Vibrant Strawberry & Pecan Spinach Salad

Crisp, nutrient-dense spinach serves as the perfect base for this refreshing and vibrant salad. Sweet berries, crunchy pecans, and a tangy homemade vinaigrette balance earthy greens for a meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

Recipe Overview

  • Prep time: 15 mins
  • Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • The Salad Base:
    • 5 oz fresh baby spinach (washed and dried)
    • 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
    • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
    • 1/2 cup candied or toasted pecans (or walnuts)
    • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • The Simple Vinaigrette:
    • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
    • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
    • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • The Seasoning:
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep the Greens: Place the baby spinach in a large salad bowl. If the leaves are large, you can tear them into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Add the Toppings: Scatter the sliced strawberries, crumbled cheese, toasted pecans, and red onion evenly over the spinach.
  3. Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  4. Toss and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving, toss gently to coat the greens, and enjoy immediately!

Helpful Tips

  • Preventing Soggy Greens: Spinach wilts easily under heavy dressings. If you are prepping this ahead of time, keep the dressing on the side and toss just before eating.
  • Nutritional Boost: To turn this salad into a complete, high-protein main course, top it with sliced grilled chicken breast or hard-boiled eggs.

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