Description
A refreshing and vibrant strawberry spinach salad featuring fresh baby spinach, sweet strawberries and blueberries, tangy feta cheese, and toasted pecans, all beautifully dressed with a homemade balsamic glaze. This quick and easy 15-minute salad is perfect as a light lunch or a colorful side dish.
Ingredients
Salad Dressing – Balsamic Glaze
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)
Salad Ingredients
- 10 oz baby spinach (fresh)
- 3 cups strawberries (cleaned and hulled, sliced)
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/3 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 1 cup pecans (toasted, some chopped)
Instructions
- Prepare the Balsamic Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup balsamic vinegar and 1/4 cup honey. Heat over medium heat until it comes to a gentle boil.
- Simmer the Glaze: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and reduces by about half. This usually takes around 10 minutes.
- Cool the Glaze: Remove the saucepan from the heat and transfer the balsamic glaze to a heatproof bowl to cool. It will continue to thicken as it cools, reaching a consistency thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but not overly thick.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, add 10 oz of fresh baby spinach, 3 cups of sliced strawberries, 1 cup of blueberries, and 1/3 cup of crumbled feta cheese. Toss gently to mix all ingredients together.
- Divide Salad into Portions: Evenly divide the salad mixture into six individual serving bowls or plates.
- Add Pecans and Drizzle Glaze: Top each salad serving with whole and chopped toasted pecans, then drizzle each bowl with the prepared balsamic glaze for a flavorful finish.
Notes
- To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
- The balsamic glaze can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Warm slightly before using if it becomes too thick.
- For a vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup and replace feta cheese with a dairy-free alternative.
- Make sure the strawberries are hulled and sliced evenly for balanced flavor and texture.
- This salad is best served fresh to preserve the crispness of the spinach and the texture of the berries.
