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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Portion the salad: Divide the combined salad evenly into six individual serving bowls, ensuring a balanced mix of all ingredients in each portion.
- 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.
- 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