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15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe


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4 from 7 reviews

  • Author: Eve
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A fresh and vibrant 15-minute Strawberry Spinach Salad featuring sweet strawberries, tangy blueberries, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy toasted pecans, all brought together with a homemade balsamic glaze that adds a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.


Ingredients

Balsamic Glaze

  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)

Salad

  • 10 oz baby spinach, fresh
  • 3 cups strawberries, cleaned, hulled, sliced
  • 1 cup blueberries
  • 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 cup pecans, toasted, some chopped


Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup balsamic vinegar and 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar. Stir to mix well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  2. Simmer the glaze: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and reduces by about half. This process takes approximately 10 minutes and concentrates the flavors.
  3. Cool the glaze: Remove the saucepan from heat and transfer the balsamic glaze to a heat-proof bowl. Allow it to cool at room temperature, during which it will thicken further to a consistency thick enough to coat the back of a spoon yet still pourable.
  4. Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, add the fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss to distribute all ingredients evenly without bruising the berries or spinach.
  5. Portion the salad: Divide the combined salad evenly into six individual serving bowls, ensuring a balanced mix of all ingredients in each portion.
  6. Add pecans: Top each serving with whole and chopped toasted pecans to add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that complements the fruit and cheese.
  7. Dress the salad: Just before serving, drizzle each bowl with the cooled balsamic glaze. This adds a beautiful sheen and a delightful tangy sweetness that enhances all the fresh flavors in the salad.

Notes

  • To toast pecans: Spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring once, until fragrant and lightly browned.
  • Use fresh, ripe strawberries and high-quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor.
  • The balsamic glaze can be made a day ahead and refrigerated; rewarm slightly before using if it thickens too much.
  • This salad is best served fresh to maintain the crispness of the spinach and the freshness of the berries.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American