Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad

This Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta and Toasted Almonds is a vibrant, refreshing dish that captures the best flavors of spring and summer. With its combination of sweet berries, tender baby spinach, and creamy feta cheese, it offers a sophisticated balance of textures and tastes in every bite.

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Whether you are hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a healthy weekday meal, this salad is easy to assemble and guaranteed to impress. The addition of toasted almonds provides a satisfying crunch that rounds out the dish perfectly.

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 Almonds

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: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Base

In a large salad bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta, and red onion (if using).

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the toasted almonds on top just before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Using the right tools makes a difference; a simple skillet is essential for toasting the almonds to perfection, while a whisk and small mixing bowl ensure your dressing is properly emulsified. Use salad tongs to toss the ingredients gently, ensuring the delicate baby spinach isn't bruised.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra freshness, consider adding a handful of fresh basil or mint leaves. You can easily substitute goat cheese for feta if you prefer a different creamy texture. For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken or cooked quinoa to the mix.

Serviervorschläge

This salad pairs exceptionally well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled rosé. Serve it immediately after assembly to enjoy the best texture and freshness of the greens.

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With approximately 230 calories per serving and 7g of protein, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious. It contains milk from the feta, nuts from the almonds, and mustard, making it a wholesome choice for those without those specific allergies. Enjoy this simple yet elegant dish all season long!

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I toast almonds properly?

Toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Remove promptly to avoid burning.

→ Can I prepare the dressing in advance?

Yes, whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard together ahead of time and refrigerate. Shake well before drizzling over the salad.

→ What substitutes can I use for feta cheese?

Goat cheese is a great alternative, offering a similar creamy and tangy profile that complements the salad's flavors.

→ Is it possible to add protein to this dish?

Grilled chicken or cooked quinoa can be added to make the salad more filling without overpowering the fresh ingredients.

→ What herbs enhance this salad?

Fresh basil or mint leaves add aromatic freshness and complement the sweetness of the strawberries and the tang of the dressing.