Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta, Pecans & Balsamic Glaze
When it comes to light, refreshing, and flavor-packed dishes, Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta, Pecans & Balsamic Glaze is a recipe that never disappoints. This salad is a celebration of contrasts—sweet and tangy, crunchy and creamy, fresh and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a spring brunch, preparing a healthy summer dinner, or simply craving something bright and nourishing, this salad is a go-to that brings both elegance and ease to the table.
Why This Salad Works So Well
The secret to a memorable salad is balance, and this recipe delivers it in every bite. The sweetness of ripe strawberries pairs beautifully with the tart creaminess of feta cheese. Pecans add a toasted crunch that contrasts with the soft texture of spinach, while the balsamic glaze ties everything together with a rich, tangy-sweet drizzle.
Another reason this dish stands out is its versatility. It can shine as a side dish at a barbecue, star as a light main course for lunch, or even act as a festive addition to your holiday spread. It’s healthy, visually stunning, and incredibly simple to prepare—ready in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach, rinsed and dried
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup pecans, lightly toasted
- ½ cup fresh blueberries (optional, for extra color and sweetness)
- 2–3 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prepare the spinach base. Arrange the baby spinach leaves in a large serving bowl or individual salad plates.
- Add strawberries. Layer the sliced strawberries evenly across the spinach.
- Sprinkle feta. Crumble feta cheese over the top for creamy, tangy flavor.
- Add crunch. Scatter toasted pecans for a nutty, satisfying crunch.
- Optional berries. If using, add fresh blueberries for extra color and sweetness.
- Drizzle to finish. Just before serving, drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad. Serve immediately.
Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta, Pecans & Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Arrange baby spinach leaves in a large serving bowl.
- Layer sliced strawberries evenly over spinach.
- Crumble feta cheese on top.
- Scatter toasted pecans across the salad.
- Optional: Add blueberries for extra sweetness.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over salad before serving.
Notes
Tips & Variations
- Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon to make this salad a full meal.
- Cheese swap: Goat cheese works beautifully in place of feta if you prefer a creamier texture.
- Nut options: Walnuts, almonds, or candied pecans can replace regular pecans for a twist.
- Homemade balsamic glaze: Simmer 1 cup of balsamic vinegar with 2 tablespoons of honey or brown sugar until thickened. Cool before drizzling.
- Meal prep: Prep ingredients separately and assemble just before serving to keep spinach crisp.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, light pasta dishes, or even a loaf of crusty bread. For summer picnics or potlucks, it’s a refreshing alternative to heavier side dishes. As a standalone lunch, pair it with sparkling water or iced tea for a complete, nourishing meal.
Fun Facts & Cultural Context
- Strawberries are one of the few fruits whose seeds grow on the outside—each berry has around 200 tiny seeds.
- Spinach has been prized for centuries, especially in Mediterranean cuisine, for its versatility and nutrient profile.
- Balsamic vinegar originates from Modena, Italy, and is aged in wooden barrels to develop its rich, complex flavor.
This dish brings all those culinary traditions together in one modern, colorful salad that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.
