There is something truly magical about the harmony of fresh, vibrant flavors in a Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Feta and Candied Pecans Recipe. This salad is a burst of color and texture that excites your taste buds with every bite. The sweetness of ripe strawberries mingles with the peppery freshness of spinach, while creamy feta adds a tangy kick, all beautifully balanced by the crunch and subtle caramel notes of candied pecans. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together in perfect harmony that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but pack a big punch in the final dish. Each one brings a unique element—whether it’s the fresh juiciness of the strawberries, the crunchy sweetness of the pecans, or the savory creaminess of feta—that make this salad irresistible.
- Spinach or baby kale (5 oz): provides a fresh, crisp base loaded with nutrients and vibrant green color.
- Strawberries (1 lb): add a juicy sweetness and stunning red hue that makes the salad pop.
- Feta cheese (1/2 cup): crumbled for a tangy, creamy contrast that complements the fruit’s sweetness.
- Candied pecans (1/4 cup): deliver a satisfyingly crunchy texture with a rich, sweet flavor.
- Balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar (1/4 cup): lends a complex, slightly tart sweetness that ties all the flavors together.
- Extra virgin olive oil (1/4 cup): smooths and enriches the dressing with a fruity, peppery touch.
- Raw honey (1 tablespoon): enhances natural sweetness and balances the acidity of the vinegar.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): adds a subtle tang and helps emulsify the dressing for a perfect coat.
- Salt and pepper to taste: essential to bring out the full spectrum of flavors.
How to Make Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Feta and Candied Pecans Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing and drying the spinach or baby kale and strawberries thoroughly. It’s important to remove excess moisture to keep the salad crisp and fresh. Then, hull and slice the strawberries evenly to ensure every bite has the perfect balance of sweetness.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Components
In a large salad bowl, toss together the washed spinach, sliced strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese. This is where the fresh and tangy layers start to come together in a beautiful mix of flavors and textures.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk balsamic vinegar or glaze with extra virgin olive oil, raw honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This dressing is key to enhancing the natural sweetness and adding a touch of acidity that lifts the entire salad.
Step 4: Dress and Toss
Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving to keep the leaves crisp. Gently toss the salad until every leaf and strawberry slice is coated in the glossy, flavorful dressing.
Step 5: Add Candied Pecans and Serve
Finally, sprinkle the candied pecans on top, adding that irresistible crunch and a hint of caramel sweetness. Serve immediately to enjoy the salad at its freshest.
How to Serve Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Feta and Candied Pecans Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop, consider sprinkling some fresh mint or basil leaves on top. A few edible flowers can also elevate the presentation beautifully while adding subtle aromas that complement the salad’s flavors.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a light, refreshing meal. It’s also fantastic alongside a crusty baguette or as a vibrant side to your favorite pasta dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the salad in individual glass bowls to showcase the colorful layers, or arrange it on a large platter with the pecans and feta carefully scattered on top for a rustic, inviting look that’s perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately if possible. Keep the spinach and strawberries refrigerated in airtight containers and store the dressing and candied pecans in separate small jars to maintain freshness and avoid sogginess.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended. The texture and flavor of the spinach, strawberries, and pecans would not hold up well after thawing.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh salad, reheating is not necessary or advised. Instead, simply remix the dressing and toss with fresh greens and toppings for another round of enjoyment.
FAQs
Can I use baby kale instead of spinach in the Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Feta and Candied Pecans Recipe?
Absolutely! Baby kale works beautifully as a substitute for spinach, adding a slightly heartier texture while still letting the other fresh flavors shine through.
How do I make homemade candied pecans for this salad?
Making candied pecans at home is easy by tossing pecans with a little butter, sugar, and cinnamon, then baking them until golden and crunchy. They add a fresh, sweet crunch that is unbeatable.
Is balsamic glaze the same as balsamic vinegar in this recipe?
While balsamic glaze is thicker and sweeter, balsamic vinegar can be used as well. Just whisk it with honey and oil to create a balanced dressing with the right level of sweetness and acidity.
Can I prepare this salad in advance for a party?
You can prep the ingredients beforehand, but it’s best to assemble and dress the salad just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.
What other cheeses can I use instead of feta in the Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Feta and Candied Pecans Recipe?
Goat cheese or ricotta salata make excellent alternatives with their creamy textures and tangy flavors, maintaining the salad’s delightful balance.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the joy of preparing and sharing the Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Feta and Candied Pecans Recipe. Its vibrant colors, complex flavors, and perfect textures make it a standout on any table. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick lunch or serving it at a gathering, this salad is sure to become a favorite you’ll reach for again and again.
Print
Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Feta and Candied Pecans Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant Spinach Strawberry Salad combining tender baby spinach, sweet strawberries, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy candied pecans, all brought together with a tangy balsamic dressing. Perfect for a light, healthy meal or a refreshing side dish, ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad
- 5 oz spinach or baby kale, washed (about 5 cups)
- 1 lb strawberries, washed, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup candied pecans
Dressing
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon raw honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and dry produce: Thoroughly wash and dry the spinach or baby kale and the strawberries to ensure they are clean and fresh.
- Prepare strawberries: Hull and slice the strawberries evenly to create uniform pieces that blend well in the salad.
- Assemble salad: In a large bowl, combine the washed spinach, sliced strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese, mixing gently.
- Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar or glaze, extra virgin olive oil, raw honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is emulsified and well combined.
- Add dressing to salad: Pour the freshly made dressing over the salad just before serving to keep ingredients crisp.
- Toss salad: Gently toss the salad until all components are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle candied pecans on top as a garnish and serve the salad immediately to enjoy it at its freshest.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Candied pecans add a crunchy texture and sweetness but can be substituted with toasted walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- For a vegan option, replace feta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative or omit it entirely.
- The dressing can be adjusted for sweetness or acidity by varying the amount of honey or balsamic vinegar.
- To make ahead, prepare the dressing and chop ingredients separately; assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.
