Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad With Feta

Name: Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad With Feta
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh spinach leaves; 2 cups strawberries, sliced; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta during the warmer months. The combination of sweet strawberries, peppery spinach, and tangy feta cheese creates a vibrant dish that’s as tasty as it is beautiful. It’s refreshing enough to serve as a side dish at barbecues, yet substantial enough to enjoy as a light meal on its own. Plus, it comes together in mere minutes, making it an effortless option for spontaneous gatherings or weekday lunches.

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:40:15.193Z

When I first experimented with this Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad, I wanted to find a way to incorporate seasonal produce into my meals. The balance of sweetness from strawberries with the tanginess of feta was a delightful surprise! By tossing the ingredients together in a homemade vinaigrette, it draws out the best flavors and keeps everything bright and fresh.

I also discovered that adding some chopped nuts enhances the texture, giving a pleasant crunch that contrasts with the soft strawberries and creamy feta. By preparing the dressing ahead of time, this salad becomes a hassle-free option that I can pull together in no time!

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        A delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors
Refreshing and perfect for warm days
Simple to prepare with minimal cleanup

      

Harnessing the Power of Fresh Ingredients

The star of this Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad is undoubtedly the fresh strawberries. When choosing strawberries, opt for those that are bright red, firm, and fragrant, as this indicates peak ripeness and sweetness. If you can't find fresh strawberries or they are out of season, consider using frozen strawberries that have been thawed – just ensure to drain off any excess moisture to prevent sogginess in the salad.

Equally important is the quality of spinach used in this dish; baby spinach is ideal due to its tender leaves and subtle flavor. If you have access to organic spinach, consider using it for a pure taste profile. If spinach isn't your preference, arugula or mixed greens can be delightful substitutes. Each option will lend a different taste and texture to the salad, allowing for creative variations.

The Role of Feta and Nuts

Feta cheese adds a creamy, tangy element that beautifully complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the earthiness of spinach. For a creamier texture, you could use goat cheese or even cubed fresh mozzarella, but feta’s crumbly nature is key to the salad’s overall profile. When selecting feta, look for cheese packed in brine; it maintains moisture well and has a richer flavor compared to pre-crumbled varieties.

Walnuts contribute both crunch and a subtle bitterness that balances the flavors. Toasting them in a dry skillet for about 5 minutes until fragrant enhances their natural oils and nuttiness, elevating the salad experience. For nut allergies, pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds make excellent alternatives, providing the necessary crunch without the allergens.

Dressing Tips and Customization

The balsamic vinaigrette in this salad is simple yet sublime; however, you can easily tailor it to suit your preferences. For example, if you prefer a sweeter dressing, consider adding a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup. Additionally, using flavored olive oil, such as lemon-infused, can impart an extra layer of complexity. This dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it perfect for meal prep.

Feel free to customize the salad further by adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein, making it a more substantial meal. To get ahead, chop your ingredients and store them separately in the fridge; this way, you can quickly mix the salad together minutes before serving without losing freshness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this refreshing salad:

Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad Ingredients

4 cups fresh spinach leaves
2 cups strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

With these fresh ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, chopped walnuts, and crumbled feta cheese.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until well mixed.

Combine

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated evenly.

Serve

Serve immediately for the freshest taste, garnishing with a few extra strawberries and walnuts if desired.

Enjoy your vibrant and tasty salad!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other ingredients like avocado or grilled chicken to make this salad even more hearty!

Serving Suggestions

This Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it a perfect side for barbecues or summer gatherings. You can serve it as a refreshing accompaniment to steak or chicken, or even alongside grilled shrimp for a burst of flavor. If your meal includes a starchy component, like quinoa or couscous, this salad offers a light, crisp contrast that balances the plate beautifully.

For a more substantial meal, consider transforming the salad into a wrap. Simply place the salad mixture on a large tortilla, add a protein of your choice, and roll it up for a delicious on-the-go lunch option. This not only enhances portability but keeps the freshness intact as well.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare certain components in advance. Wash and dry the spinach, slice the strawberries, and chop the walnuts a day ahead. Store each ingredient in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. However, avoid mixing the salad until you’re ready to serve to prevent the spinach from wilting and getting soggy.

If you end up with leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to two days; however, keep in mind that the quality will decline over time, particularly the spinach and strawberries. Refrain from adding the dressing to leftovers; instead, serve the dressing on the side so that any remaining salad can stay crisp.

Flavor Variations

Consider enhancing the salad with additional ingredients for a unique twist. Add sliced avocados for creaminess or substitute feta with a spicy pepper jack cheese for a surprising kick. You could also incorporate fresh herbs like mint or basil for a refreshing aromatic boost, which pairs particularly well with strawberries.

Experimenting with fruit can also yield delicious results. Try substituting strawberries with blueberries or peach slices; just keep in mind that different fruits will influence the level of sweetness and texture. Each variation invites its own delightful flavor profile while maintaining the integrity of the original dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

While the salad is best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients and dressing ahead, just combine them right before serving.

→ What other fruits can I add?

You can substitute strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or even sliced peaches for a different flavor profile.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ How can I make it vegan?

Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan feta alternative, and ensure your dressing is vegan-friendly.