Save It A vibrant, refreshing salad featuring sweet strawberries, tender baby spinach, creamy feta, and crunchy toasted almonds—perfect for spring and summer.
Save It This American-style salad brings together the best of seasonal produce with a simple yet elegant dressing that elevates every bite.
Ingredients
- Salad
- 150 g (5 oz) baby spinach, washed and dried
- 250 g (8 oz) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 100 g (3.5 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
- 50 g (1/2 cup) sliced almonds
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Dressing
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- Toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Step 2
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Step 3
- In a large salad bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta, and red onion (if using).
- Step 4
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Step 5
- Sprinkle the toasted almonds on top just before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
When toasting the almonds, keep a close eye on the skillet as they can go from golden to burnt very quickly. Whisk the dressing until it is fully emulsified for the best flavor distribution.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra freshness, add a handful of fresh basil or mint leaves. You can substitute goat cheese for feta if desired, or add grilled chicken or quinoa for a heartier meal.
Serviervorschläge
This Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad pairs exceptionally well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled glass of rosé.
Save It Serve this salad immediately after tossing to enjoy the perfect combination of crisp greens, juicy fruit, and creamy feta.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Prepare the dressing and toast almonds up to 2 days ahead. Store them separately in airtight containers. Assemble with fresh ingredients just before serving to maintain crisp texture.
- → What can I substitute for feta cheese?
Goat cheese, blue cheese, or shaved Parmesan work beautifully. For a dairy-free version, try avocado cubes or simply add more nuts for extra protein.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store undressed components separately in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Keep spinach dry, strawberries in a container, and almonds sealed at room temperature. Add dressing just before eating.
- → Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are recommended for best texture and flavor. Frozen berries become mushy when thawed and release excess water, which will make the greens soggy.
- → How can I add more protein?
Grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp work wonderfully. For plant-based options, add quinoa, chickpeas, or hemp seeds to make it a more substantial meal.
- → What other nuts can I use?
Walnuts, pecans, or pine nuts are excellent alternatives. Candied pecans add extra sweetness, while sunflower seeds provide a nut-free option.