There’s something about the sweet, juicy burst of strawberries mingling with the earthy, lush spinach in this salad that just screams summer – even if you’re making it in the dead of winter. I remember the first time I tossed these ingredients together on a whim, with a splash of balsamic dressing. The taste was so unexpectedly refreshing, it was like discovering an old song on the radio that instantly lifts your spirits.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the pecans in a single layer on an ungreased baking sheet. Toast them for 8 to 10 minutes until they are fragrant and tan in the center when split. Once done, chop them roughly and set aside.
- Slice the red onion thinly and place it in a bowl of cold water. Let it soak while you prepare the rest of the salad to mellow out its strong flavor.
- In a small mixing bowl or a large liquid measuring cup, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, poppy seeds, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until fully combined. Alternatively, you can shake these ingredients together in a mason jar with a tight lid.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the fresh baby spinach and hulled, quartered strawberries. Drain the soaked red onion and add it to the bowl as well.
- Drizzle about half of the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the spinach leaves lightly. Add more dressing if needed, ensuring the leaves are moistened without being drenched.
- Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and toasted pecans over the salad. Toss lightly to mix the ingredients and serve immediately, offering additional dressing on the side if desired.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup raw pecans
- ½ small red onion, very thinly sliced
- 10 ounces fresh baby spinach (a mix of half arugula and half spinach is also recommended)
- 1 quart strawberries, hulled and quartered (approximately 1 pound)
- ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese (preferably block-style for better texture)
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1 ½ tablespoons honey
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ? teaspoon ground black pepper
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1494kcal | Carbohydrates: 96g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 120g | Saturated Fat: 30g | Cholesterol: 102mg | Fiber: 24g | Sugar: 60g
FAQ
- Can I make this Spinach Strawberry Salad ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the components of the salad in advance. However, it’s best to dress the salad just before serving to maintain the spinach’s freshness. If you plan to store it, keep the dressing separate and refrigerate leftover salad and dressing in airtight containers.
- What can I substitute for pecans if I have a nut allergy?
- If you’re avoiding nuts, toasted sunflower seeds are a great alternative to add crunch to the salad without compromising flavor.
- Is there a way to reduce the sharpness of the red onions in the salad?
- To mellow the strong flavor of raw red onions, soak them in cold water for a few minutes before adding them to the salad. This will preserve their flavor while removing the harsh aftertaste.
- Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta in this salad?
- Absolutely! Goat cheese or a mild blue cheese like gorgonzola work wonderfully in this salad, providing a creamy and tangy element that complements the other ingredients.
- What can I serve with this salad to make it a complete meal?
- To turn this salad into a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled or shredded chicken for protein. You can also mix in some cooked grains like quinoa or farro, or serve it with a side of crusty bread.
Tips
- Toast Nuts for Enhanced Flavor: Always toast your nuts before adding them to the salad. This simple step intensifies their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch, significantly enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Soak Red Onions: Soak sliced red onions in cold water before using them in the salad. This technique helps retain their flavor while reducing their sharpness and lingering aftertaste.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Opt for a block of cheese and crumble it yourself rather than using pre-crumbled cheese. Freshly crumbled cheese is creamier and enhances the salad’s texture and taste.
- Dress Just Before Serving: For the freshest flavor and texture, add the dressing to the salad just before serving. If you have leftovers, store the salad undressed and keep the dressing separate in the refrigerator.
Equipment
- Non-Slip Cutting Board
- Mixing Bowls
- Rimmed Baking Sheets
