Sunkissed Strawberry Spinach Salad

Name: Sunkissed Strawberry Spinach Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh spinach, rinsed and dried; 2 cups strawberries, sliced; 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Living Recipes

I absolutely love making this Sunkissed Strawberry Spinach Salad during the warmer months. It's a vibrant, refreshing dish that beautifully balances the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the earthiness of spinach. The first bite takes me on a delightful journey of flavors, enhanced by the tangy dressing that ties everything together. Whether it's a picnic or a light lunch, this salad is my go-to for its simplicity and freshness. In just a few minutes, you can enjoy a bowl full of sunshine on your plate!

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-01-13T14:29:37.911Z

Every summer, I find myself craving the refreshing tastes of fresh fruits and greens, which is why this Sunkissed Strawberry Spinach Salad has become a seasonal staple in my kitchen. Not only is it visually appealing, but it also nourishes both body and soul. I tried pairing different dressings, and I discovered a homemade balsamic vinaigrette enhances the natural sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.

What truly makes this salad special is the crunch of the nuts, which adds an unexpected layer of texture. I remember sharing it at a friend's picnic, and everyone was asking for the recipe! It’s a dish that sparks joy and conversation around the table.

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        A perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors
Bright colors that make your plate pop
Quick and easy preparation for any occasion

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of spinach and strawberries is not just aesthetic; it offers a delightful contrast in flavors and textures. Fresh spinach lends a crisp, slightly earthy taste, while strawberries provide a burst of sweetness. Choosing the ripest strawberries really enhances the overall dish. Look for berries that are bright red and fragrant, as these will ensure a juicy and flavorful addition to your salad.

When selecting walnuts, opt for raw or lightly toasted versions to enhance their nutty flavor without overwhelming the salad. Toasting them in a dry pan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until they turn golden can intensify their taste. If you're looking for a nut-free version, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can serve as great alternatives, adding a similar crunch.

Perfecting the Balsamic Vinaigrette

Creating the balsamic vinaigrette is where you can truly customize the flavors of your salad. When whisking the ingredients together, start with the balsamic vinegar and honey, then slowly drizzle in the olive oil to create a smooth emulsion. This process not only blends the ingredients but also helps prevent separation, ensuring every bite is equally flavored.

Feel free to adjust the acidity by adding more honey if the dressing is too sharp for your taste. If you're looking to cut calories without sacrificing flavor, consider using a lower-fat olive oil or substituting a portion of it with plain Greek yogurt, which adds creaminess while maintaining a tangy profile.

Serving and Storing Tips

For optimal freshness, serve the salad immediately after dressing it. If you're preparing it in advance, consider keeping the vinaigrette separate until just before serving. This will prevent the spinach from wilting and help maintain the salad's crisp texture. You can store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but be aware that the flavors and textures will change with time.

This salad is incredibly versatile. You can add grilled chicken or tofu for protein, or incorporate seasonal fruits like blueberries or sliced peaches for different flavor profiles. It's also excellent as a side dish for BBQs or paired with sandwiches, making it a fantastic choice for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful salad:

Salad Ingredients

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

Balsamic Vinaigrette Ingredients

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

Make sure to use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the Dressing

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

Assemble the Salad

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

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Serve

Divide the salad into servings and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.

This salad can be made ahead of time, but for best results, dress it just before serving.

Pro Tips

To elevate the flavors, try adding ripe avocado or a sprinkle of sunflower seeds for extra crunch!

Storage Solutions

Should you have leftover salad, it's best to keep the vinaigrette separate for storage. Place the salad ingredients in a sealed container and refrigerate, where they typically keep well for up to two days. Just before serving, drizzle with the dressing to freshen up the salad.

If you're planning to prepare the salad a day in advance, chop the strawberries and onions ahead of time but store them in separate containers to maintain their freshness and texture. This way, you can quickly toss everything together right before your meal.

Alternative Ingredients

For those who have specific dietary preferences or intolerances, consider swapping the feta cheese for a vegan cheese alternative or omitting it entirely to create a dairy-free version. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor without dairy, enriching the salad with added nutrients.

If walnuts aren't to your taste or you have a nut allergy, you might try using crispy chickpeas for crunch or even croutons for added texture. These substitutions will give your salad a unique twist while still ensuring a satisfying bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the greens crisp.

→ Is there a substitute for walnuts?

Absolutely! You can use pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds if you prefer.

→ Can I use other fruits?

Definitely! Other berries like blueberries or raspberries would work beautifully, or you can try adding sliced peaches in the summer.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but note that the greens may become soggy after a day.