Strawberry Spinach Salad

This 20-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad & Balsamic Dressing is a super easy way to bring a burst of flavor to your day without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a vibrant side dish, this salad has got you covered! Fresh spinach, sweet strawberries, and crunchy almonds come together in a beautiful mix that looks as good as it tastes. Plus, the homemade balsamic dressing is simple and elevates the whole dish. You’ll be amazed at how such basic ingredients can create something special!

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Why You’ll Love This 20-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad & Balsamic Dressing
• Ingredients
• Preparing the Salad
• Toasting the Almonds
• Composing the Salad
• Adding the Toasted Almonds
• Preparing the Balsamic Vinaigrette
• Serving Suggestions
• Tips for Success
• Variations
• Storage Tips
• Pairing Ideas
• FAQs
• More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

So, gather your ingredients and let’s get started on this delicious salad that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Trust me, they’ll be asking for the recipe after you serve this up at your next gathering! Now, let’s jump into why this recipe works so well.

Why This Recipe Works

This 20-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad & Balsamic Dressing is not just about quick preparation; it’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. You get that delightful crunch from the toasted almonds paired with the sweet, vibrant strawberries. They bring a fruity contrast to the peppery spinach leaves. This combination of ingredients creates a fresh taste that elevates even the simplest meals. And with the balsamic vinaigrette, you have a dressing that ties it all together, offering just the right amount of tanginess.

Why You’ll Love This 20-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad & Balsamic Dressing

Perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous summer gatherings, this salad shows how simple ingredients can create an impressive dish. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it becomes a go-to recipe for anyone who loves healthy meals. It can hold its own as a main course or stand beside grilled meats as a refreshing side. The best part? You’ll relish the compliments that come your way!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup slivered almonds
• 5 oz fresh spinach
• 16 oz strawberries, sliced
• 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 4 baby cucumbers, sliced (or 1/2 cup regular-sized)
• 1/3 cup homemade balsamic vinaigrette

Preparing the Salad

Toasting the Almonds

Begin by grabbing a small skillet. Sprinkle in the slivered almonds and bring the heat to medium. Toast them while stirring frequently. You want them to turn lightly golden and start smelling fragrant. Once done, transfer them to a small bowl to cool.

Composing the Salad

Now, take a large salad bowl or a platter and layer it with fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, and baby cucumbers. Distributing the ingredients evenly isn’t just about looks; it’s also crucial for flavor. Feel free to play around with how you arrange everything!

Adding the Toasted Almonds

Now that your salad is beautifully composed, sprinkle the cooled, toasted almonds over the top. Their delightful crunch adds a wonderful texture to your dish, making every bite enjoyable.

Preparing the Balsamic Vinaigrette

While the salad is coming together, whip up your homemade balsamic vinaigrette. In a separate bowl, whisk together your ingredients until they’re well combined. You can drizzle it over the salad just before serving or place it on the side—this way, everyone can add their own to keep the spinach fresh.

Serving Suggestions

This salad isn’t just tasty; it’s also versatile. Enjoy it as a light lunch or a side dish with grilled meats. It makes a refreshing starter for gatherings too! Pair it with crusty bread or a glass of light white wine to create a more elegant meal.

Tips for Success

• For the best results, dress the salad just before serving to keep the spinach fresh and lively.
• Don’t hesitate to adjust the ingredient ratios based on your preferences. Feel free to add extra strawberries or cucumbers if you like!
• Experiment with different nuts or seeds for a tasty twist.

Variations

Feel like switching things up? Consider adding feta cheese or goat cheese for a creamy touch. Want protein? Top the salad with grilled chicken or shrimp. If you’re in the mood for a zesty change, substitute the balsamic dressing with a citrus vinaigrette. The possibilities are endless!

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? Store any salad remaining in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Although, it’s always best enjoyed fresh to maintain that delightful crispness of the spinach and the quality of the strawberries.

Pairing Ideas

This refreshing salad pairs beautifully with lemon-herb grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or a hearty quinoa dish. It’s also delightful for summer picnics, barbecues, or even a casual brunch gathering.

FAQs

Can I use different nuts instead of almonds?
Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans work great in this salad too.

Is it okay to use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries provide the best texture and flavor. If you must use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them before adding.

How can I make the dressing ahead of time?
You can whip up the balsamic vinaigrette up to a week in advance. Just store it in a sealed container in the fridge.

Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! This salad is naturally vegan, just make sure your balsamic dressing is free of any animal products.

What can I do with leftovers?
While fresh is best, you can certainly mix leftovers to create a delicious wrap with some added protein.

This 20-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad & Balsamic Dressing is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of seasonal freshness. As you gather around the table with friends and family, this dish encourages everyone to enjoy the delightful mix of flavors and textures. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering, this salad shines as a quick and enjoyable culinary experience. Cheers to quick, flavorful meals that bring us all together!

More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:

• Apple Fritter Bites
• Egg Salad
• Butter Stuffed Dates
• Grilled Pineapple Chicken

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