Description
This vibrant Strawberry Spinach Salad combines fresh baby spinach with sweet strawberries, creamy feta cheese, crunchy pecans and pumpkin seeds, and ripe avocado for a nutritious and flavorful dish. Tossed with a homemade balsamic vinaigrette sweetened with maple syrup or honey, this salad is perfect as a light lunch or a refreshing side for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 8-10 oz. baby spinach (or mixed greens)
- 8 oz. strawberries, sliced
- 6 oz. feta cheese, crumbled
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup chopped roasted pecans
- ¼ cup roasted and salted pumpkin seeds (optional)
- 1 small avocado, cut into cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Dressing Ingredients
- ½ cup oil (avocado or olive oil)
- â…“ cup balsamic vinegar (high quality preferred)
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the salad base: In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, chopped roasted pecans, and roasted pumpkin seeds. Mix gently to combine all the ingredients evenly. Cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours if preparing ahead.
- Make the dressing: In a mason jar or blender, combine the oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup or honey, and a pinch of salt. Shake vigorously or blend until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. The dressing can be stored at room temperature until ready to use.
- Assemble and serve: Just before serving, add the cubed avocado to the salad bowl. Pour the desired amount of dressing over the salad, tossing gently to coat everything evenly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.
Notes
- To keep the salad fresh for later use, add avocado and dressing just before serving to avoid sogginess.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Adjust sweetness of the dressing by varying maple syrup or honey quantity as per taste.
