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Spring Strawberry Spinach Salad – Fresh & Healthy Delight

Salads don’t have to be punishment for skipping the gym. This Spring Strawberry Spinach Salad is proof.

Sweet strawberries, fresh spinach, crunchy nuts, and a tangy dressing—sounds like a party in your mouth, right?

It’s the kind of salad that makes you forget you’re eating something healthy.

Perfect for picnics, lunches, or pretending you’ve got your life together. And the best part?

You don’t need chef skills to make it. Let’s get to it.

Why This Recipe Slaps

This salad isn’t just another bowl of greens. The combo of sweet strawberries and earthy spinach is a match made in food heaven.

Add some creamy feta, crunchy almonds, and a zesty dressing, and you’ve got texture, flavor, and color working overtime.

It’s light but filling, healthy but indulgent-tasting. Even salad skeptics will ask for seconds.

Spring Strawberry Spinach Salad – Fresh & Healthy Delight

Recipe by Wendy CarterCourse: Salad, Vegetarian
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

5

minutes
Calories

220

kcal

Ingredients

  • 6 cups fresh baby spinach (washed, unless you like dirt)

  • 1.5 cups sliced strawberries (because whole strawberries are just showing off)

  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese if you’re fancy)

  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted, unless you enjoy sadness)

  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional, but highly recommended)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

  • 1 tsp honey (or maple syrup for vegans)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Wash and dry the spinach. No one wants a soggy salad. Use a salad spinner or pat it dry with a towel.
  • Slice the strawberries. Aim for even slices—this isn’t abstract art.
  • Toast the almonds. Heat them in a dry pan over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until golden. Don’t walk away; burnt almonds are a crime.
  • Make the dressing. Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Taste it. Adjust if needed. You’re the boss here.
  • Assemble the salad. Toss spinach, strawberries, feta, almonds, and red onion in a large bowl. Drizzle with dressing right before serving. Toss gently—no one likes a mangled salad.

How to Store This Masterpiece

Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Keep the dressing separate until serving. FYI, soggy spinach is a tragedy, not a lifestyle.

Why This Salad is Basically a Superfood

Spinach packs iron and vitamins, strawberries deliver antioxidants, almonds bring healthy fats, and feta adds protein.

It’s a nutrient powerhouse disguised as a delicious meal. Plus, it’s low-calorie but satisfying—perfect for when you want to eat well without feeling deprived.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 220
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbs: 18g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Sugar: 10g (mostly from the strawberries, so don’t panic)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Drowning the salad in dressing. Start with half, toss, then add more if needed.
  • Using wilted spinach. Fresh is best. No one likes a limp leaf.
  • Skipping the toasting step for almonds. Raw almonds are sad almonds.
  • Adding dressing too early. Do it right before serving, or you’ll regret it.

Swaps and Alternatives

  • No feta? Try goat cheese or avocado for creaminess.
  • Allergic to nuts? Swap almonds for sunflower seeds.
  • Not a balsamic fan? Use lemon vinaigrette instead.
  • Want more protein? Add grilled chicken or chickpeas.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

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Otherwise, you’ll end up with a soggy mess.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Technically yes, but they’ll be mushy. Fresh is way better here. IMO, frozen berries belong in smoothies, not salads.

Is this salad vegan-friendly?

Almost!

Just swap the feta for a vegan cheese or avocado and use maple syrup instead of honey.

How do I make the dressing less tart?

Add more honey or a splash of orange juice to balance the acidity. Taste as you go—you’re in control.

Final Thoughts

This Spring Strawberry Spinach Salad is the ultimate proof that healthy food can taste incredible. It’s quick, versatile, and packed with flavor.

Perfect for lazy lunches, fancy dinners, or just pretending you’re a gourmet chef. Make it once, and it’ll become your go-to. Now go forth and salad.

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