vibrant and refreshing salad that combines tender baby spinach with sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch or an elegant starter for any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad brings together contrasting flavors and textures—crisp spinach, juicy berries, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese—creating a harmonious and memorable dish. It requires minimal preparation, uses readily available ingredients, and can be customized to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting a casual brunch or seeking a healthy weeknight meal, this recipe delivers on both simplicity and sophistication.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Baby spinach leaves
Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Crumbled goat cheese
Toasted walnut halves or pecans
Thinly sliced red onion
Extra-virgin olive oil
Balsamic vinegar
Honey or maple syrup
Dijon mustard
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

directions

Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well emulsified.
Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, toasted nuts, and red onion.
Dress and toss: Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated, taking care not to bruise the berries.
Serve immediately: Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates. Enjoy at once for the best texture and flavor.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 as a side or starter
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, seared shrimp, or sliced avocado to make this a heartier entrée.
Cheese swap: Substitute feta or blue cheese for goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Nut options: Use almonds, pecans, or pistachios in place of walnuts for varied crunch and taste.
Fruit twists: Try raspberries, blueberries, or mandarin segments instead of strawberries for seasonal variation.
Herb infusion: Toss in fresh basil, mint, or chives to introduce an aromatic note.

storage/reheating

Storage: Keep any leftover salad components separate. Store the dressing in an airtight container and the undressed spinach mixture in another in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Do not reheat; instead, assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

FAQs

What type of spinach works best for this salad?

Baby spinach is ideal due to its tender leaves and mild flavor. However, you may substitute baby kale or mixed spring greens if preferred.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries yield the best texture and sweetness. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry to prevent excess moisture in the salad.

How do I toast nuts quickly?

Heat a dry skillet over medium heat, add the nuts, and stir frequently for 3–5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Is there a dairy-free option for the cheese?

Yes. Omit the cheese entirely or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Toasted chickpeas also provide a pleasant protein boost and crunch.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely. The dressing can be whisked together and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before using.

What can I use instead of balsamic vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar both work well; you may need to adjust the sweetness accordingly.

How should I wash and dry the spinach?

Rinse spinach leaves under cold water, then use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture. Dry leaves help the dressing adhere better.

Can I add grilled fruits?

Grilled peaches or pineapple chunks add a smoky sweetness that pairs nicely with the other ingredients—simply grill slices for 2–3 minutes per side.

What is the best way to serve this at a party?

Toss the salad just before serving and present it on a large platter. Offer extra dressing and toppings on the side for guests to customize.

How do I prevent the salad from becoming soggy?

Keep the dressing separate until just before serving, and ensure all ingredients—especially berries—are as dry as possible.

Conclusion

This spinach and strawberry salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that comes together in minutes. Its adaptability makes it suitable for any season, meal, or dietary preference. Next time you seek a quick yet elegant dish, turn to this vibrant salad—your guests and family will be impressed by its freshness and balance