There are few things as refreshing as a strawberry spinach salad in the spring or summertime. This colorful dish combines strawberries, soft spinach, crunchy pecans with zesty red feta and poppy seed dressing. “. This salad is equally as delicious for a family brunch as it is for an informal weeknight meal. It’s not just a fresh taste, but also incredibly tasty and easy to make. The content of this post includes helpful tips for preparing the food, fun swap ideas like how to store it well, and even some creative meal recipes.
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Strawberry Spinach Salad, Fresh, Irresistible & Easy to Make
The Popularity of Fruit + Greens Salads
Fruit and greens might seem like an unexpected pairing, but salads like strawberry spinach salad have proven to be timeless favorites. The combination delivers balance: juicy sweetness from fruit, earthy freshness from greens, and layers of texture that make every bite satisfying. In fact, this salad is a staple at potlucks and holiday gatherings because it’s both healthy and indulgent.
Why Spinach Pairs So Well with Strawberries
Spinach, especially baby spinach, has a mild flavor that acts as a perfect base for sweet fruits. Strawberries, with their juicy, slightly tart bite, cut through the richness of toppings like feta and pecans. Together, spinach and strawberries create a salad that is refreshing but still feels substantial. This balance is why the strawberry spinach salad recipe works so well for both everyday meals and special occasions.
Nutritional Benefits of Combining Fruit and Leafy Greens
Strawberries are loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C, while spinach is one of the most nutrient-dense greens available, rich in iron, folate, and vitamin K. By combining the two, you get a salad that not only looks beautiful but also supports immune health, bone strength, and heart wellness. Add nuts for healthy fats and cheese for calcium, and you’ve got a side dish that delivers a nutritional boost with every bite.
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Strawberry Spinach Salad, Fresh, Flavorful & Easy to Make
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This strawberry spinach salad is a fresh spring recipe with strawberries, spinach, feta, pecans, and poppy seed dressing.
Ingredients
5 ounces fresh spinach
1 cup thinly sliced strawberries
⅓ cup thinly sliced red onion
½ cup toasted pecans
2 ounces crumbled feta cheese
1 recipe poppy seed dressing
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, place spinach, strawberries, and onion.
2. Add some dressing and toss to combine.
3. Top with pecans and feta, then toss gently.
4. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Notes
You can prepare the salad base 1 day in advance. Dressing lasts up to 5 days refrigerated. Best eaten fresh after tossing with dressing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 7
- Sodium: 180
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 13
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 6
The Best Ingredients to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad Irresistible
Fresh Spinach, The Base of the Salad
The foundation of a strawberry spinach salad is, of course, spinach. Baby spinach works best here because its small, tender leaves are easy to eat raw, with a mild flavor that doesn’t overpower the sweet strawberries. If you only have mature spinach, you can still use it, but chop the leaves into smaller pieces to make them easier to enjoy in a salad.
Juicy Strawberries, The Star Ingredient
Strawberries bring vibrant color, natural sweetness, and a soft, juicy bite to this salad. They also add balance against the tangy dressing and salty cheese. For best results, slice them thinly instead of chopping. This way, they blend beautifully with the spinach leaves and look visually appealing when served.
Red Onion, A Savory Contrast
A small amount of thinly sliced red onion adds sharpness and depth, preventing the salad from tasting overly sweet. Its crisp texture also complements the softness of strawberries and spinach. Don’t skip this ingredient—it provides a necessary savory kick.
Toasted Pecans, For Crunch and Richness
Toasted pecans elevate this salad by bringing a nutty, buttery flavor and satisfying crunch. Toasting the pecans lightly in the oven or on a skillet makes them extra aromatic and enhances their flavor. If pecans aren’t available, walnuts or almonds make excellent alternatives.
Feta Cheese, A Tangy, Creamy Element
Crumbled feta is the salty counterpart to the strawberries’ sweetness. Its creamy texture blends into the dressing and spinach, creating a balanced bite. Goat cheese or blue cheese can be used as swaps, but feta remains the classic choice for this salad.
The Poppy Seed Dressing, Sweet and Tangy Finish
What truly ties the salad together is the homemade poppy seed dressing. It’s made with white wine vinegar, shallot, honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and poppy seeds. The result is a sweet, tangy, and slightly nutty dressing that clings perfectly to spinach leaves. For a creamier version, you can whisk in a touch of mayonnaise.
Easy Step-by-Step Guide to a Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad
Step 1 – Prepare the Spinach
Start with fresh baby spinach for the base of your strawberry spinach salad. Wash and dry the leaves thoroughly. If you’re using mature spinach, chop it into bite-sized pieces so it blends smoothly with the strawberries and toppings.
Step 2 – Slice the Strawberries and Onion
Thinly slice the strawberries instead of chopping them. This keeps their shape intact and makes them easier to pair with spinach leaves. Next, slice the red onion as thin as possible, paper-thin slices are best for adding a sharp flavor without overwhelming the sweetness of the fruit.
Step 3 – Toast the Pecans
Place pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat and toast them for a few minutes, stirring frequently until they’re fragrant and slightly darker in color. This step brings out their nutty richness and makes them crunchier. Allow them to cool down completely before mixing into the salad.
Step 4 – Make the Poppy Seed Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together white wine vinegar, finely minced shallot, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the poppy seeds until evenly combined. If you prefer a creamy version, add a spoonful of mayonnaise.
Step 5 – Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, add the spinach, sliced strawberries, and red onion. Pour in a portion of the dressing and toss gently until the leaves are lightly coated. Then sprinkle on the toasted pecans and crumbled feta. Toss lightly again, adding more dressing if needed.
Step 6 – Season and Serve
Finish with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and crispest texture.
Strawberry Spinach Salad Flavor Secrets You’ll Love
Sweet Meets Savory Perfection
At the heart of a great strawberry spinach salad is the way sweetness and savoriness balance each other. The strawberries bring a juicy, natural sweetness that plays beautifully against the salty tang of feta. When combined with earthy spinach and the bite of red onion, you get a medley of flavors that feels fresh yet satisfying.
Textural Contrast in Every Bite
This salad isn’t just about taste—it’s about texture. Each forkful delivers something different: tender spinach leaves, juicy strawberry slices, creamy feta crumbles, and crunchy toasted pecans. That mix of soft, crisp, and crunchy elements makes the salad exciting and prevents it from ever feeling flat or boring.
The Tangy Dressing Brings It Together
The homemade poppy seed dressing adds the finishing touch. With a balance of tangy vinegar, a hint of sweetness from honey, and nutty poppy seeds, it enhances every other ingredient without overpowering them. It’s the glue that unites sweet fruit, leafy greens, savory cheese, and crunchy nuts into one harmonious dish.
A Salad That Feels Complete
Some salads leave you feeling like you just ate a side dish. But with the right balance of flavors and textures, strawberry spinach salad feels whole and satisfying, even when served on its own. It has richness, freshness, and brightness in equal measure, making it versatile for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Strawberry Spinach Salad Variations You’ll Love (Ingredient Swaps Included)
Switching Up the Fruit
Strawberries may be the classic choice, but other fruits can bring new dimensions to the salad:
- Blueberries or raspberries add tartness with a similar bright pop of color.
- Blackberries bring juiciness and a deeper, sweet flavor.
- Thinly sliced apples or pears offer crunch and a crisp, refreshing contrast.
- Orange segments add citrusy brightness that works well with the poppy seed dressing.
Changing the Greens Base
If you don’t have spinach, you can still enjoy this salad with other greens:
- Spring mix makes a tender, delicate alternative.
- Butter lettuce provides a soft, slightly sweet base.
- Baby kale adds more earthiness and extra nutrients while still blending well with fruit.
Nutty Alternatives for Crunch
Pecans bring richness and depth, but you can swap them for other nuts:
- Toasted walnuts for a robust, slightly bitter edge.
- Slivered almonds for a light, crisp crunch.
- Pine nuts for a buttery, smooth bite.
Cheese Substitutes and Dairy-Free Options
Feta cheese delivers saltiness and tang, but alternatives can suit different preferences:
- Goat cheese for a creamier texture and milder tang.
- Blue cheese if you prefer bold, pungent flavors.
- Avocado cubes for a dairy-free option that still adds creaminess.
Making It More Substantial
If you want to transform this strawberry spinach salad into a full meal:
- Add quinoa, farro, or couscous for a hearty grain base.
- Toss in crispy roasted chickpeas for extra protein and crunch.
- Serve with grilled chicken or salmon to make it a balanced entrée.
And to make your meal feel even more refreshing, pair this vibrant salad with a bright beverage. Whether you love a naturally sweet and healthy option like Carrot Juice or prefer a fun and fizzy treat such as a Shirley Temple Drink, both drinks bring a burst of flavor that complements the freshness of the strawberries and spinach beautifully.
Sensational Salad Dressing Ideas Beyond Poppy Seed You’ll Love
Classic Poppy Seed Dressing, The Signature Choice
The sweet and tangy poppy seed dressing is what makes strawberry spinach salad shine. Its blend of vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and nutty poppy seeds ties together fruit, greens, and cheese. It’s light yet flavorful, enhancing the natural sweetness of the strawberries.
Lemon Vinaigrette, Bright and Zesty
If you prefer something more citrusy, a simple lemon vinaigrette works beautifully. Fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey or maple syrup create a dressing that adds freshness without overshadowing the strawberries.
Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing, Tangy and Smooth
Apple cider vinegar offers a mellow tang and subtle sweetness. Paired with olive oil and a little Dijon mustard, it brings a refreshing twist to the salad while keeping the flavor balance light and clean.
Balsamic Vinaigrette, Sweet Depth of Flavor
Strawberries and balsamic vinegar are a natural match. A balsamic vinaigrette brings richness and a slightly sweet depth that pairs wonderfully with the fruit and feta. This option works especially well for a more elegant dinner salad.
Creamy Options, For Extra Indulgence
Want something richer? A light creamy dressing made with Greek yogurt or a touch of mayo can add body while still keeping the salad refreshing. Just make sure not to overpower the strawberries’ natural sweetness.
Strawberry Spinach Salad Pairings You’ll Love For Lunch
As a Light Lunch
Strawberry spinach salad is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with the right dish makes it even better. For a quick lunch, serve it alongside:
- Best egg salad sandwiches for a protein boost.
- Crustless quiche for a light, savory match.
- Simple green soup or gazpacho for a refreshing combo.
With Brunch Dishes
At a spring or summer brunch, this salad is a star. It pairs perfectly with:
- Asparagus risotto for elegance and flavor balance.
- Lemon pasta for a citrusy side that complements strawberries.
- Pasta primavera for a light, veggie-packed main.
For Dinner Gatherings
If you’re serving strawberry spinach salad at dinner, round out the menu with heartier options:
- Grilled chicken or salmon for protein-rich entrées.
- Roasted potatoes or couscous for filling sides.
- Crusty bread or artisan rolls to soak up extra dressing.
Making It a Complete Meal
Want the salad itself to shine as a main course? Add:
- Quinoa or farro for whole grains that add staying power.
- Roasted chickpeas for extra crunch and plant-based protein.
- Avocado slices to increase creaminess without dairy.
Strawberry spinach salad works across occasions, from weekday meals to holiday gatherings, making it one of the most versatile recipes you can keep in your rotation.
Ultimate Guide to Make-Ahead & Storage Tips for Strawberry Spinach Salad
Preparing Ahead of Time
One of the best things about strawberry spinach salad is how easily it can be prepped in advance. You can wash and dry the spinach, slice the strawberries, and toast the pecans up to one day before serving. Store each ingredient separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
Keeping the Dressing Fresh
The poppy seed dressing can be prepared up to 5 days in advance. Refrigerate it in a sealed jar or container. If the olive oil solidifies while chilling, simply leave it at room temperature for a few minutes and shake well before use.
How to Store the Salad Without Sogginess
Once tossed with dressing, spinach leaves quickly soften. For the best results, store the salad without dressing and add it just before serving. This way, the spinach stays crisp, and the strawberries remain juicy.
Leftovers – What You Need to Know
Undressed salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Dressed salad is best eaten within a few hours, as the spinach and strawberries release water and lose their texture. If you know you’ll want leftovers, keep the dressing separate and add only to the portion you’re eating.
Tips to Keep It Fresher Longer
- Use baby spinach, which holds up better than mature spinach.
- Store strawberries in a single layer lined with a paper towel to prevent moisture buildup.
- Add delicate toppings like feta and pecans just before serving to keep them crisp.
Surprising Health Benefits of Strawberry Spinach Salad You’ll Love
A Nutrient-Dense Combination
A strawberry spinach salad isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients. The blend of fruit, leafy greens, nuts, and cheese delivers a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.
Benefits of Strawberries
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system and supports skin health. They’re also loaded with antioxidants that fight inflammation and protect against chronic diseases. Their natural sweetness makes them a healthy alternative to added sugars in salads.
Power of Spinach
Spinach is one of the most nutrient-dense greens. It’s high in iron, which helps with energy production, and vitamin K, which supports strong bones. Spinach also contains folate, a key nutrient for cell growth and repair.
Heart-Healthy Pecans
The pecans in strawberry spinach salad provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They help lower cholesterol and improve heart health, while adding a satisfying crunch that makes the salad more filling.
Feta Cheese and Balance
While feta adds a touch of saltiness and richness, it also provides calcium and protein, both important for strong bones and muscles. Used in moderation, it balances the sweetness of strawberries without overwhelming the dish.
Why This Salad Is a Smart Choice
When combined, these ingredients create a balanced dish that supports energy, immunity, and overall well-being. Low in empty calories but high in nutrients, strawberry spinach salad is a smart choice for anyone looking to eat healthier while enjoying fresh, seasonal flavors.
Conclusion
A strawberry spinach salad is a celebration of seasonal flavors. Sweet strawberries, fresh spinach, salty feta, crunchy pecans, and tangy poppy seed dressing come together to create a salad that’s both healthy and satisfying. It’s quick to make, versatile enough for brunches, lunches, or dinners, and elegant enough for gatherings and holidays.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try variations with different fruits, nuts, or dressings, this salad is guaranteed to become a staple in your warm-weather cooking. Fresh, colorful, and nourishing—it’s the kind of dish that always leaves a lasting impression.
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FAQs About Strawberry Spinach Salad
How do you eat strawberry spinach?
You can eat strawberry spinach raw by combining the sliced strawberries with tender spinach leaves, feta, pecans, and a light dressing. It’s best served fresh, straight from the bowl.
How do you prepare spinach for salad?
Rinse spinach thoroughly under cold water, pat it dry, and remove any tough stems. Baby spinach is ideal because the leaves are tender and ready to use without chopping.
Can you eat strawberries and spinach together?
Yes! They’re a classic pairing in salads. Strawberries add natural sweetness, while spinach provides freshness and nutrients, making the combination both tasty and healthy.
How does strawberry spinach taste?
It has a refreshing mix of flavors—sweet from strawberries, earthy from spinach, tangy from feta, and nutty from pecans. The dressing adds a bright, zesty finish.
How should spinach be eaten?
Spinach can be enjoyed raw in salads like this one, lightly sautéed as a side, or blended into smoothies. Eating it raw preserves the maximum amount of nutrients.
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