The Spinach and Strawberry Salad is a delightful combination of fresh, healthy ingredients that come together to create a flavorful.
Ingredients for the Spinach and Strawberry Salad
- 4 cups fresh spinach (washed and dried)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (sliced)
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
- 2–3 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette (homemade or store-bought)
- Optional: a pinch of salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
Start by thoroughly washing and drying the spinach. You want fresh, crisp spinach leaves for this salad. Pat them dry with a paper towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess water. Place the spinach in a large bowl.
Step 2: Slice the Strawberries
Wash the strawberries well, remove the stems, and slice them thinly. Strawberries add sweetness and color to the salad, so choose fresh and ripe berries for the best flavor. Set them aside after slicing.
Step 3: Toast the Almonds
For added flavor and crunch, toast the sliced almonds. Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir them frequently for about 5–7 minutes until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them! Once done, set the toasted almonds aside to cool.
Step 4: Crumble the Goat Cheese
Take the goat cheese and crumble it into small pieces. You can do this directly over the salad bowl or prepare it in a separate dish. Goat cheese brings a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the strawberries.
Step 5: Make the Balsamic Vinaigrette (Optional)
For a homemade balsamic vinaigrette, whisk together the following:
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste Whisk until smooth and well combined.
If you’re short on time, feel free to use a store-bought balsamic vinaigrette.
Step 6: Assemble the Salad
Now it’s time to put everything together! Add the sliced strawberries to the bowl with the spinach. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese and toasted almonds on top. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. You can add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste if you like.
Step 7: Toss and Serve
Gently toss the salad to coat the spinach, strawberries, cheese, and almonds with the dressing. Be careful not to crush the delicate ingredients. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh, flavorful Spinach and Strawberry Salad!
Tips for the Perfect Salad:
- Serve immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so try to serve it right after preparing it.
- Add protein: For a heartier version, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or quinoa to make it a complete meal.
- Try different nuts: If you’re not a fan of almonds, walnuts or pecans work well in this salad too.
This step-by-step recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create a delicious, healthy, and beautiful salad in minutes. Enjoy!
