Spinach Strawberry Pecan Salad

This spinach strawberry salad with pecans bursts with fresh flavors and textures that make it perfect for a light lunch or a vibrant side dish. The combination of crisp spinach, juicy strawberries, and crunchy pecans creates a beautiful balance of sweet and earthy, all crowned with tangy feta and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette.

I first made this salad on a sunny afternoon when I wanted something quick and colorful to brighten up the table. It quickly became a go-to whenever I wanted an easy dish that feels special.

Ingredients You Need

• Fresh spinach leaves: about 4 cups make up the vibrant green base of the salad. Choose tender, unblemished leaves for the best texture
• Sliced strawberries: 1 cup delivers a juicy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the greens. Pick ripe but firm strawberries for optimal flavor and shape
• Chopped pecans: half a cup add a nutty crunch which lifts every bite. Toast lightly if you prefer a deeper flavor
• Crumbled feta cheese: a quarter cup adds creamy saltiness that balances the sweet and savory elements. Use high-quality feta for the best taste
• Balsamic vinaigrette: a quarter cup ties all the ingredients together with a tangy sweetness. Homemade or store-bought both work well but taste before adding

Detailed Cooking Directions

Build The Greens:

Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly and dry them using a salad spinner or paper towels to prevent sogginess. This step is essential for keeping the salad crisp and fresh.

Prepare The Fruit:

Slice the strawberries evenly to ensure a pleasant texture and that each bite blends well with the other ingredients.

Combine Base Ingredients:

In a large bowl, mix the spinach, sliced strawberries, and chopped pecans. Toss them gently to distribute the ingredients without bruising the strawberries.

Add Cheese Layer:

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top. This keeps the cheese from getting lost in the greens and lets its flavor shine through each bite.

Dress and Toss:

Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Toss carefully so everything is coated but still retains its individual textures. Serve immediately for peak freshness.

My favorite twist on this salad is to add thin slices of red onion or a handful of fresh basil leaves. The combination adds unexpected layers of flavor that really elevate the dish. One summer, I served this to friends and everyone asked for seconds which made me realize how much they appreciated the harmonious flavors.

Smart Storage Tips

Storing this salad is all about preserving freshness. Keep the greens and strawberries separate from the dressing if you want to prepare ahead. Store chopped pecans in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crunch. Dress the salad just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Ingredient Variations

Swap out the pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Using goat cheese in place of feta gives a smoother creaminess that some find even more delightful. Fresh blueberries or mandarin orange segments can replace strawberries for a new fruity twist.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or baked salmon for a complete meal. Crisp white wine or a lightly chilled rosé complements the tangy and sweet flavors nicely. For a vegetarian option, adding roasted chickpeas boosts protein and heartiness.

Seasonal Makeovers

In early spring, add sliced radishes or snaps of fresh peas for crunchy brightness. Summer is perfect for juicy stone fruits like peaches alongside the greens. During fall, swap berries for roasted squash or apples and sprinkle with pumpkin seeds for cozy flavors.

This salad is a bright addition to any meal and quick to assemble, making it a reliable favorite year-round.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use baby spinach or another green?

Baby spinach works wonderfully for a tender texture, but you can substitute with baby kale or arugula for a peppery twist.

→ How can I toast pecans for extra flavor?

Lightly toast pecans in a dry skillet on medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring often until fragrant and golden brown.

→ Is there a way to make it vegan-friendly?

Simply omit the feta cheese and consider adding a splash more balsamic vinaigrette to enhance the flavors.

→ What other fruits pair well with spinach in this salad?

Try substituting or mixing strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or sliced apples for different fruity notes.

→ How should I store leftovers?

For best texture, store the spinach mixture and dressing separately in airtight containers and combine just before serving.