Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad

Make any meal extra special with this refreshing strawberry walnut salad. Juicy strawberries, crisp greens, and crunchy walnuts come together in a perfect blend that’s ideal for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

If there’s one salad I turn to when I want something fresh, bright, and a little special, it’s a strawberry walnut salad. The combination of juicy strawberries, crunchy walnuts, and fresh greens is simply unbeatable.

It’s the kind of salad that looks beautiful on the table but is also easy to throw together any night of the week. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with everything from grilled chicken to salmon, making it perfect for anyone who loves simple but delicious meal options.

Personally, I love making this when I’m in the mood for something light but still satisfying. It’s amazing how something so simple can make your whole meal feel a little fancier, and it’s always a hit with family and friends.

Items Needed

Here’s a quick breakdown of the purpose of each ingredient in a strawberry walnut salad:

• Spring Mix: Provides a blend of tender, flavorful greens for a light, fresh base.
• Spinach: Adds nutrients like iron and fiber, plus a mild flavor that pairs well with strawberries.
• Feta Cheese: Offers a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the strawberries.
• Sliced Strawberries: Brings natural sweetness and a pop of color to the salad.
• Sliced Red Onion: Adds a sharp, savory bite that balances the sweeter ingredients.
• Walnuts: Contribute crunch and heart-healthy fats for a satisfying texture.
• Olive Oil: Acts as a light dressing that enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the salad with acidity and helps bring out the other flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: Season the salad, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Ways To Customize

Customizing a spinach strawberry walnut salad is easy and allows for a lot of creativity! Here are some ideas:

• Swap the Nuts: Use almonds, pecans, or even sunflower seeds if you want to keep it nut-free. Pecans add a caramel-like sweetness, while sunflower seeds give a subtle crunch.
• Add Cheese Alternatives: Goat cheese or blue cheese crumbles add a creamy, tangy element that complements the sweetness of the strawberries. For dairy-free options, use vegan feta or omit cheese altogether.
• Experiment with Dressings: Try a balsamic glaze, honey mustard, or poppy seed dressing instead of traditional balsamic vinaigrette. Each offers a unique flavor twist that enhances the salad.
• Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a few slices of prosciutto add heartiness, making it suitable as a main dish. For a plant-based option, roasted chickpeas add protein and texture.
• Switch Up the Greens: Use arugula for a peppery bite, kale for added nutrients, or a mix of greens to create a different base flavor and texture.
• Incorporate Seasonal Fruits: Fresh peaches, apples, or blackberries add a fun twist, making it adaptable to any season.

How To Make It

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.

Storage

To store a spinach strawberry walnut salad, keep the ingredients separate if possible. Store the greens, strawberries, and walnuts in separate airtight containers in the fridge, which helps each component stay fresh. The spinach can be kept crisp by placing it in a container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.

Store the dressing separately and add it right before serving to keep the salad from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply combine everything for a fresh and flavorful salad. If you’ve already mixed the salad and need to store leftovers, it will keep for about a day in the fridge, but the greens may wilt slightly.

Helpful Hints

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and strawberries give the salad a vibrant look and taste. If possible, buy strawberries in season—they’ll be sweeter and juicier.
• Dress just before serving: Add the dressing right before you’re ready to eat. This prevents the spinach from wilting and keeps the salad fresh.
• Experiment with extra ingredients: Add avocado for creaminess, or sprinkle on seeds (like chia or pumpkin) for extra crunch and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

For a light lunch, consider pairing your spinach strawberry salad with a protein like air fryer marinated chicken, shrimp, or even a poached egg on top. The added protein balances out the salad’s flavors and textures while making it more filling. A warm slice of crusty bread on the side complements the fresh and crisp salad, adding another layer of comfort and heartiness.

This salad also makes an elegant starter or side dish for dinner. Its colorful presentation and mix of flavors create an inviting dish that pairs well with various main courses. Serve it alongside grilled fish, roasted turkey, or pork tenderloin to add a refreshing, fruity contrast to these rich proteins. You can even serve it with something spicier like a Mexican picadillo recipe.

For a brunch setting, this salad fits right in with its light and refreshing taste. It pairs beautifully with quiches, frittatas, or a simple omelet, making it an easy addition to a spread of brunch favorites. For a touch of extra indulgence, you could add a sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese or a light drizzle of balsamic glaze, enhancing its sweet-savory balance and making it an impressive, crowd-pleasing option.

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