Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad

Name: Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Lean & Tasty

I absolutely love creating vibrant salads that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. This Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad is one of my favorites! The bright colors of fresh strawberries mixed with the deep green of spinach create a stunning dish that tastes as good as it looks. The combination of sweet, juicy strawberries, crunchy walnuts, and tangy feta cheese brings a perfect balance of flavors. Whether it's a summer picnic or a dinner party, this salad never fails to impress.

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:58:09.871Z

When I first tried this salad at a friend's barbecue, I was instantly hooked. The freshness of the strawberries paired with the earthiness of the spinach was such a lovely surprise. I wanted to replicate that delight at home, so I experimented with different dressings and toppings. What I found is that a simple vinaigrette highlights the flavors without overpowering them. This salad has since become a staple in my summer meals.

One tip I learned is to always use ripe strawberries — it makes all the difference in flavor. I also like to toss the ingredients gently just before serving to keep the spinach crisp. It's a quick dish that brings joy and a vibrant hue to any table, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

        Why You Will Love This Salad
        Bright and fresh ingredients bursting with flavor
A perfect balance of sweetness and crunch
Ideal for any occasion, light and refreshing

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

The quality of the fresh ingredients in this Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad is critical for enhancing its flavors. Opt for organic strawberries if possible, as they tend to be sweeter and juicier. When selecting spinach, look for vibrant, dark green leaves without any signs of wilting. Fresh produce not only impacts the taste but also adds nutritional value, making your salad both delicious and healthful.

If fresh strawberries are out of season, you can use other fruits like raspberries or mandarin oranges for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the sweetness and acidity levels may vary, so adjust the dressing accordingly to maintain the balance in your salad.

Crafting the Perfect Dressing

The dressing is what brings this salad together, making it essential to achieve the right emulsification. When whisking the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey, aim for a smooth, glossy texture. If the dressing separates, simply whisk it again before drizzling it over the salad. This balance of sweet and tangy cuts through the richness of the feta cheese and the crunch of the walnuts, creating a beautifully layered taste experience.

For a creamier dressing, consider adding a tablespoon of Greek yogurt. This will not only provide a different texture but also add a slight tang that complements the other ingredients well. Adjust the quantity of honey based on how sweet your strawberries are and remember to season with salt and pepper last to prevent concentration of grit in the dressing.

Ingredients

For the Salad

4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

For the Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, toasted walnuts, crumbled feta cheese, and red onion.

Make the Dressing

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

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try marinating the onions in vinegar for a few minutes to mellow their sharpness before adding them to the salad.

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad is ideal for meal prep, but to maintain freshness, store the components separately. You can prepare the salad ingredients—spinach, strawberries, and onions—up to 24 hours in advance. Keep the walnuts and feta cheese in separate containers to avoid sogginess or spoilage, which can occur if mixed ahead of time.

The dressing can also be made a day prior. Just keep it refrigerated in a sealed jar. Before serving, give it a good shake or whisk to reincorporate any separated ingredients. By prepping ahead, you can whip up this vibrant dish in no time when it's time to entertain or enjoy a quick meal.

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to customize this salad to suit your taste or dietary needs! If you're looking for a nut-free option, simply replace the walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether for a lighter finish. For a vegan version, substitute the feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added umami without dairy.

For an added protein boost, grilled chicken or chickpeas can be tossed into the salad to make it a more filling main course. These additions not only enhance the nutritional profile but also create a heartier dish while still honoring the light, refreshing nature of the original recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to prepare the salad just before serving to keep the spinach crisp, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance and mix them when ready.

→ What other fruits can I use?

Feel free to substitute strawberries with blueberries, kiwi, or sliced peaches based on your preference.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

You can skip the feta cheese and replace the honey with agave syrup to make it completely vegan.

→ What should I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or can be served as a light lunch on its own.