Pro Tips for Best Results
Creating the perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad is all about balance. I tested this salad three ways: with different dressings, varying the amount of strawberries, and adjusting the nuts’ crunchiness. My favorite variation is with a homemade honey mustard dressing—it adds a sweetness that complements the strawberries beautifully!
For freshness, make sure to buy your strawberries at their peak ripeness. I often visit local farmers’ markets when they’re in season; you can taste the difference! Also, don’t skip the step of slicing the onions thinly; it really helps them blend flavorfully with the other ingredients.
Lastly, if you’re preparing the salad in advance, consider keeping the dressing separate until it’s time to serve. This keeps everything crisp and prevents the spinach from wilting too soon.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I made early on was using floppy, pre-packaged spinach. Oh boy, the texture was off, and the whole salad ended up feeling sad. Fresh spinach is key! Always opt for fresh, crisp greens for that satisfying crunch. (See the next page below to continue…)
Another pitfall was being heavy-handed with the dressing. I sometimes overdid it out of excitement, but let me tell you, a little goes a long way. You want to enhance the flavors without drowning them. Start with a tablespoon and toss—add more if needed!
I also learned the hard way that not all feta cheese is created equal. The creamy texture of good-quality feta adds richness, while cheaper versions can fall flat. Invest a little in quality cheese; it makes a world of difference!
Lastly, using frozen strawberries instead of fresh is tempting when they’re out of season, but trust me; the texture won’t be the same. Fresh strawberries provide that perfect bite and a burst of flavor that frozen just can’t match.
Serving Suggestions
This Strawberry Spinach Salad shines at summer barbecues alongside grilled chicken or fish—it pairs beautifully! The sweet, tart notes of the salad balance out savory dishes perfectly, making it a great companion.
If you’re serving it as a main dish, consider adding grilled shrimp or even slices of rotisserie chicken on top. The protein transforms the salad into a hearty meal without losing its lightness.
And let’s not forget about dessert! After indulging in this salad, I love finishing off a meal with a light sorbet or a fresh berry tart to continue the fruity theme. It’s a lovely way to round out any gathering!
Variations & Customizations
While this version of the salad is my favorite, there are so many ways to customize it! If you’re a fan of fruits, try adding blueberries or mandarin oranges. Both not only add extra sweetness but also vibrant colors that truly enhance the dish.
For a bit more crunch, toss in some sunflower seeds or crispy chickpeas. They add a delightful texture that makes every bite interesting! You can also play with the cheese—goat cheese is a fabulous alternative to feta, giving a softer creaminess that pairs well with the strawberries.
For a sweeter dressing, consider swapping the balsamic vinaigrette for a poppy seed dressing or honey dressing, which brings a wonderful sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the strawberries and spinach.
How to Store, Freeze & Reheat
If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt you will—it’s that good), store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will typically keep for about a day, but I recommend enjoying it as fresh as possible. The spinach will wilt over time, so it’s best consumed soon.
You can store the dressing separately, and it actually lasts longer—up to a week in the fridge! Just give it a good shake before using. If you’ve made more dressing than you need, it’s a fantastic addition to other salads or as a marinade for grilled veggies.
Freezing the salad is not recommended, mainly because the fresh spinach and strawberries don’t do well in the freezer. However, if you’re curious about the dressing, homemade vinaigrettes freeze well in ice cube trays; just thaw them as needed for a quick salad prep!
Conclusion
I hope you’re as excited to make this Strawberry Spinach Salad as I am every time! It’s a beautiful dish that embraces summer in every bite, and I can’t wait for you to try it in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving guests or enjoying a quiet meal, this salad is sure to bring joy to any table. Happy cooking!