Why You’ll Love this Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe
When you take your first bite of this Strawberry Spinach Salad, you’ll understand why it’s become a favorite in my kitchen. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors instantly brighten any meal.
I love how the sweet strawberries balance perfectly with the earthy spinach and crunchy walnuts. Plus, the creamy cheese adds a delightful richness that keeps me coming back for more.
It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of tastes and textures. Whether I serve it at gatherings or enjoy it solo, this salad never disappoints.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked too!
Ingredients of Strawberry Spinach Salad
When it comes to making a delicious Strawberry Spinach Salad, it all starts with gathering the right ingredients. This salad isn’t only colorful and appetizing, but it also brings a wonderful combination of flavors that are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
Trust me, you won’t want to skip a single ingredient because each one plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and creaminess. Are you ready to plunge into the deliciousness? Let’s take a look at what you’ll need for this vibrant dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 (6 ounce) bag chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 (6 ounce) bag baby spinach
- 1 pint sliced strawberries
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2-3 garlic cloves
Now, let’s talk about some considerations when it comes to these ingredients. First off, freshness is key! Seek out ripe strawberries that are vibrant red and firm to the touch; they’ll elevate your salad from good to great.
If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the Monterey Jack cheese for feta or goat cheese for a different twist. And if you’re not a fan of walnuts, feel free to use almonds or pecans instead.
Also, don’t forget about the dressing—it’s a game changer. Make it ahead of time and let those flavors blend; it’s like giving your salad a little loving hug. So, let’s get ready to whip up this delightful dish!
How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad
Making the delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad is as easy as pie—well, maybe easier, since there’s no baking involved. First things first, let’s talk about that dressing. You’ll want to whip it up at least six hours ahead of time, so it has time to really come together.
Grab a small bowl and mix together 3/4 cup of sugar, 1 cup of olive oil, 1/2 cup of red wine vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Oh, and don’t forget those 2-3 garlic cloves; they add a punch of flavor. If you have a shaker bottle, toss everything in there and give it a good shake. Store it in the refrigerator, and give it a shake now and then throughout the day. It’s like a mini workout for your arms and a flavor party for your salad.
Now, let’s assemble the salad. When you’re ready to serve, get a big bowl—because trust me, you’re going to want space for all that deliciousness. Start with 1 (6 ounce) bag of chopped romaine lettuce and 1 (6 ounce) bag of baby spinach. These two greens are like the dynamic duo of salad-land.
Next, add in 1 pint of sliced strawberries; their vibrant color and sweet tang will make your salad pop. Follow that with 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, because who doesn’t love a little cheesy goodness? And for some crunch, sprinkle in 1/3 cup of chopped walnuts. If you’re feeling fancy, you can lightly toast those walnuts in a skillet first for an added depth of flavor.
Once everything is in the bowl, give it a gentle toss to combine. Now, here’s a little tip: wait to add the dressing until just before serving. You want those greens to stay crisp, and we all know soggy lettuce is a party foul.
Strawberry Spinach Salad Substitutions & Variations
While the classic Strawberry Spinach Salad is delicious as it is, there’s always room for creativity. I love swapping out ingredients to keep things fresh!
For instance, try using goat cheese instead of Monterey Jack for a tangy twist. If you’re not a fan of walnuts, pecans or almonds work beautifully. You can also add sliced avocado for creaminess or swap strawberries for blueberries or raspberries.
If you want a bit of crunch, toss in some crispy bacon. And don’t hesitate to experiment with dressings—balsamic or honey mustard can add a unique flavor profile that’s just as delightful!
What to Serve with Strawberry Spinach Salad
Serving Strawberry Spinach Salad alongside the right dishes can elevate your meal to a new level.
I love pairing it with grilled chicken or salmon for a protein boost that complements the salad’s freshness. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving it with a savory quiche or a light pasta salad.
For a more casual vibe, try some crispy breadsticks or a cheese platter. If you want to keep it simple, roasted vegetables make a delightful side.
These options not only enhance the flavors but also make your dining experience more enjoyable and satisfying.
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Strawberry Spinach Salad is a hit, I recommend preparing the dressing in advance, as this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
I usually make it at least six hours ahead and store it in a shaker, giving it a good shake throughout the day.
When it’s time to serve, mix the salad ingredients just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
If you want an extra crunch, try toasting the walnuts lightly.
And don’t forget, you can adjust the sweetness of the dressing by varying the sugar amount based on your taste.
Enjoy your delicious creation!