Ingredients
6 cups baby spinach, washed and dried
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
1/4 cup sliced almonds or pecans, lightly toasted
1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
Simple Balsamic Vinaigrette
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
In a large bowl, add spinach, strawberries, red onion, and nuts.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
Drizzle dressing over the salad just before serving.
Toss gently to combine.
Top with feta or goat cheese if using, and serve immediately.
Notes
Cooking Tips
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Dry spinach thoroughly to prevent a watery salad.
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Add dressing right before serving to keep greens crisp.
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Toast nuts in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes to enhance flavor.
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Use ripe but firm strawberries for the best texture.
Variations
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Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon.
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Vegan Option: Skip cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
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Extra Sweet: Add blueberries or mandarin oranges.
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Citrus Twist: Swap balsamic for a lemon poppy seed dressing.
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Crunch Upgrade: Add sunflower seeds or candied walnuts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g