Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Glaze Recipe
If you’re craving a refreshing dish that bursts with color, flavor, and texture, you simply have to try this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Glaze. It’s one of my absolute favorites when it comes to combining fresh, crisp spinach leaves with the juicy sweetness of ripe strawberries. Add to that the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans and the creamy tang of goat cheese, all brought together by a luscious balsamic glaze. This salad isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a stunning addition to any spring or summer meal that feels as light as a breeze but full of delightful contrasts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this salad comes from a handful of simple but essential ingredients, each playing a key role in making your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Glaze pop with flavor and texture. These components come together to create a perfect harmony between sweet, tangy, and savory notes while offering vibrant colors that make it as beautiful as it is tasty.
- 4 cups baby spinach: The tender leaves form the fresh, green base packed with vitamins and a mild flavor that lets the other ingredients shine.
- 1 cup sliced strawberries: Juicy and sweet, strawberries add a burst of natural sweetness and a lovely pop of red color.
- 1/4 cup pecans, toasted: Toasting pecans unlocks their nutty aroma and creates a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft spinach and strawberries.
- 50 g goat cheese, crumbled: Creamy and slightly tangy, goat cheese enriches the salad with a smooth texture and savory depth.
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze: This thick, tangy-sweet reduction brings an irresistible complexity and beautiful shine when drizzled over the finished salad.
How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing your baby spinach thoroughly and draining it well to keep the salad crisp. Slice the strawberries evenly to ensure every bite has that lovely balance of sweetness and freshness. Toast the pecans gently in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and golden, then set them aside to cool.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad Layers
On a large platter or in a salad bowl, layer the baby spinach as your base. Evenly scatter the sliced strawberries on top, followed by the toasted pecans. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over everything for a creamy contrast to the fresh and crunchy elements.
Step 3: Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze
The secret weapon: drizzle the balsamic glaze generously but thoughtfully across the salad. This will add a tangy-sweet finish that ties all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
Step 4: Serve Chilled
For the best experience, chill your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Glaze for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld wonderfully and ensures each bite is refreshingly cool.
How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra toasted pecans or add a few fresh strawberry slices on top just before serving. A few fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of cracked black pepper can elevate the salad’s aroma and taste beautifully.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a perfect light lunch or dinner. It also serves as a refreshing companion to richer main dishes like roasted pork or creamy pastas, cutting through heaviness with its bright flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the salad in clear glass bowls or individual mason jars layered carefully so the colors are visible. You can even thread large strawberry slices and pecans onto skewers as an elegant side garnish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt it will last long!), keep the salad refrigerated in an airtight container. It’s best enjoyed within a day to maintain the crispness of the spinach and the freshness of the strawberries.
Freezing
Because this salad is built on fresh, delicate ingredients with a creamy cheese and fresh fruit, freezing is not recommended as it will damage the texture and flavor of the components, especially the strawberries and spinach.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be served cold so reheating isn’t ideal. If you prefer a warm dish, try transforming the ingredients into a warm spinach and strawberry sauté but skip the goat cheese and balsamic glaze which are best served fresh.
FAQs
Can I substitute the goat cheese?
Absolutely! Feta cheese is a great alternative if you want a similar tangy creaminess. If you prefer dairy-free, try avocado chunks for a creamy texture without the cheese flavor.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Glaze are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious choice for anyone with gluten sensitivities.
How do I make my own balsamic glaze?
To make a quick balsamic glaze, simply simmer balsamic vinegar in a saucepan over medium heat until it reduces by half and thickens into a syrupy consistency. Allow it to cool before drizzling over your salad.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are ideal for this salad to keep the texture perfect. Frozen strawberries will be too soft and watery once thawed, which may make the salad soggy.
What else can I add to this salad?
You can experiment by adding sliced almonds instead of pecans, blueberries for extra berry burst, or even thinly sliced red onions for a mild zing that complements the sweetness superbly.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Glaze a try—it’s a dish that never fails to brighten the table and impress guests with its simple yet sophisticated flavors. Whether for a casual lunch, a sunny picnic, or a festive gathering, this salad brings freshness and joy to every bite. Happy cooking!
