15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe

If you need a vibrant, crowd-pleasing salad in a pinch, the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is a total lifesaver. Bursting with juicy berries, fresh baby spinach, crunchy toasted pecans, tangy feta, and all tied together with a glossy homemade balsamic glaze, this salad effortlessly bridges the gap between fancy and fuss-free. Whether for a weeknight dinner, a summer picnic, or a last-minute get-together, this beauty will always have people coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad owes its magic to a handful of superstar ingredients that work together in perfect harmony. Each ingredient serves a purpose, adding either crunch, creaminess, sweetness, or color, making every bite a joyful experience.

• Balsamic vinegar: The foundation for a rich, tangy glaze that dresses the salad with deep flavor.
• Honey or brown sugar: Adds a lovely natural sweetness to balance the tang of the vinegar in the dressing.
• Fresh baby spinach (10 oz): This mild, tender green is the perfect bed for all the juicy flavors and toppings.
• Strawberries (3 cups): Sliced and hulled, they bring bright color and a summery sweetness to the mix.
• Blueberries (1 cup): A pop of color and a burst of extra sweetness elevate this salad even more.
• Feta cheese (⅓ cup, crumbled): The tangy, creamy feta adds just the right savory touch to offset the fruitiness.
• Pecans (1 cup, toasted): Toasting boosts the flavor and aroma for a nutty crunch in every forkful.

How to Make 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Step 1: Make the Balsamic Glaze

Add the balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar) to a small saucepan. Heat over medium until the mixture comes to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Stir occasionally, keeping a close eye as it thickens and reduces by about half. This usually takes around 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let the glaze cool in a heat-proof bowl. It will continue to thicken as it cools—aim for a texture that coats the back of a spoon, but isn’t too syrupy.

Step 2: Toss the Salad

While the balsamic glaze cools, add the baby spinach, strawberries, blueberries, and crumbled feta cheese into a large salad bowl. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the berries and feta are evenly distributed throughout the greens for the ultimate bite every time.

Step 3: Assemble and Top

Divide your tossed salad between individual serving bowls or plates. Just before serving, scatter both whole and chopped toasted pecans over each serving. This simple trick adds a rustic look and amps up the crunch factor. Finally, generously drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze over each salad, ensuring every morsel gets a touch of its sweet-tart magic. And voilà—the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is ready to wow!

How to Serve 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Garnishes

Kick things up a notch by adding a few thoughtful garnishes. A sprinkle of extra feta, a handful of microgreens, or a twist of freshly ground black pepper can take the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad from lovely to unforgettable. If you love a little extra sweetness, shave in a bit of orange zest. You’ll be shocked by the difference these little touches make!

Side Dishes

This salad shines solo but also plays well as part of a larger meal. Pair it with grilled chicken, seared salmon, or even a quiche for a complete brunch spread. It’s a dream alongside a crusty baguette or warm dinner rolls, which are perfect for soaking up every last drop of that dreamy balsamic glaze.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad to impress at your next event, serve it in clear glass bowls or elegant mason jars for a portable picnic treat. You can also layer the ingredients in a large trifle dish for a show-stopping centerpiece. For a crowd, set up a fun DIY salad bar with all the toppings and let everyone customize their own bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra salad after your meal, transfer any undressed portions to an airtight container and store in the fridge. This keeps the spinach crisp and the fruit juicy. For optimal freshness, store the balsamic glaze and toasted pecans separately, adding them just before serving.

Freezing

While you can freeze the homemade balsamic glaze for up to a month (just thaw it at room temperature and whisk before using), freezing the assembled 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad itself is not recommended. The fresh fruits and greens can lose their texture and become watery after freezing.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat anything in this salad, but if your balsamic glaze becomes too thick after refrigeration, a quick 10-second burst in the microwave, followed by a good stir, should bring it back to drizzle-able perfection. Always dress the salad just before serving to keep it crisp and vibrant.

FAQs

Can I use frozen berries in the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad?

While fresh berries are best for maintaining the salad’s vibrant color and texture, you can use frozen berries in a pinch. Just thaw and blot them dry first to avoid excess moisture in the salad.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If feta isn’t your favorite, goat cheese or blue cheese both work beautifully here, adding their own creamy tang. You can also leave out the cheese for a dairy-free or vegan option.

How do I toast pecans quickly?

Toss pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until they’re fragrant and slightly golden. Keep a close eye—nuts can burn quickly!

Can I make the balsamic glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the glaze up to a week ahead, then store it in a jar in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature or gently warm before drizzling on your 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, the 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is naturally gluten-free as written. Just double-check that your feta and balsamic vinegar are certified gluten-free if you’re highly sensitive.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that delivers fresh, bold flavors in minutes, this 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. It’s proof that healthy can be stunningly delicious and easy! Give it a whirl—I promise, you’ll look for excuses to make it again and again.

Print