Spinach & Strawberry Easter Salad

It’s funny how some of the simplest recipes become instant family favorites. This Spinach & Strawberry Easter Salad was one of those happy accidents. Last Easter, wanting something fresh and vibrant to cut through the richness of our holiday meal, I threw together what I had on hand: baby spinach, some beautiful ripe strawberries, a bit of feta cheese, and a homemade balsamic vinaigrette. The result? A salad that was not only stunningly colorful and perfect for the spring holiday but also utterly delicious. My family, who can sometimes be salad skeptics, devoured it. The sweet strawberries against the earthy spinach, the salty feta, and the tangy dressing – it was a flavor explosion that everyone loved. It’s now become a staple Easter dish, and honestly, we make it all spring and summer long. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, visually appealing, and packed with fresh, healthy ingredients. If you’re looking for a salad that’s both festive and flavorful, look no further. This Spinach & Strawberry Easter Salad is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for Spinach & Strawberry Easter Salad

• Fresh Baby Spinach: 5 ounces, pre-washed for convenience and delicate flavor. The base of our healthy and vibrant salad.
• Ripe Strawberries: 1 pound, hulled and sliced. Provides sweetness and beautiful red color, essential for the Easter theme.
• Crumbled Feta Cheese: 4 ounces. Adds a salty and tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the strawberries and richness of the dressing.
• Toasted Almonds or Pecans: ½ cup, slivered or chopped. Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the texture of the salad.
• Red Onion (optional): ¼ cup, thinly sliced. Provides a mild sharpness and subtle bite, balancing the sweetness. Use sparingly if sensitive to onion flavor.
• High-Quality Balsamic Vinaigrette: ¾ cup, store-bought or homemade. The tangy and slightly sweet dressing ties all the flavors together beautifully. For best results, use a vinaigrette made with good quality balsamic vinegar and olive oil.

Instructions for Making Spinach & Strawberry Easter Salad

1. Prepare the Spinach: If your baby spinach isn’t pre-washed, gently rinse it under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels or spin it in a salad spinner to remove excess moisture. Excess water can dilute the dressing and make the salad soggy. Place the spinach in a large salad bowl. Ensure the spinach is dry for optimal dressing adherence.
2. Slice the Strawberries: Wash the strawberries thoroughly under cool running water. Hull the strawberries by removing the green tops. Slice the strawberries into halves or quarters, depending on their size and your preference. Slicing them ensures they are easy to eat and distribute evenly throughout the salad. Add the sliced strawberries to the bowl with the spinach.
3. Prepare the Red Onion (Optional): If using red onion, peel a small red onion and slice it very thinly. To mellow the flavor of the red onion, you can soak the slices in ice water for about 10 minutes, then drain them well. This step is optional but recommended if you prefer a milder onion taste. Sprinkle the red onion slices over the spinach and strawberries.
4. Crumble the Feta Cheese: If you have a block of feta, crumble it into bite-sized pieces. If using pre-crumbled feta, measure out the desired amount. Distribute the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the salad ingredients. The salty feta provides a wonderful contrast to the sweet strawberries.
5. Toast the Nuts: Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and crunch. You can toast almonds or pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly golden brown. Alternatively, you can toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Let the toasted nuts cool slightly before adding them to the salad. Add the cooled, toasted nuts to the salad bowl.
6. Dress the Salad: Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Start with about half of the dressing and toss gently to combine all the ingredients. Add more dressing to your liking, ensuring that the spinach and other components are lightly coated but not drowning in dressing. Tossing right before serving prevents the spinach from wilting and keeps the nuts crunchy.
7. Serve Immediately: For the best flavor and texture, serve the Spinach & Strawberry Easter Salad immediately after dressing. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, you can combine the spinach, strawberries, feta, and red onion (if using) in a bowl and store it in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing and toasted nuts separate and add them just before serving. This will maintain the freshness and crispness of the salad.

Nutrition Facts for Spinach & Strawberry Easter Salad

Servings: 6

Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 (This is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and dressing used. Homemade dressing tends to be healthier than store-bought options.)

Approximate Nutrition Facts per Serving (Estimated):

• Calories: 275 kcal
• Total Fat: 20g (This includes healthy fats from olive oil in the vinaigrette and nuts.)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (Primarily from feta cheese and some fats in nuts.)
• Cholesterol: 20mg (From feta cheese.)

Important Note: These nutrition facts are estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used, as well as the specific recipe for the balsamic vinaigrette. For the most accurate nutritional information, calculate based on the exact ingredients you use. This salad is generally a good source of Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and fiber, while being relatively moderate in calories and carbohydrates, making it a healthy and delicious choice.

Preparation Time for Spinach & Strawberry Easter Salad

Total Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes

This Spinach & Strawberry Easter Salad is incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy holidays or weeknight meals. The majority of the time is spent washing and slicing the strawberries and spinach, and quickly toasting the nuts (if you choose to toast them). Assembling the salad itself takes only a few minutes. If you opt for pre-washed spinach and pre-crumbled feta, the preparation time can be even shorter. This recipe is designed for minimal fuss and maximum flavor, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal and company. It’s an ideal salad to whip up when you need a healthy and impressive dish in a hurry.

How to Serve Spinach & Strawberry Easter Salad

This versatile salad can be served in numerous ways, making it a fantastic addition to various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a Side Dish for Easter Dinner: Perfectly complements traditional Easter main courses like ham, roasted lamb, or chicken. Its freshness and vibrant colors provide a welcome contrast to richer dishes.
• Light Lunch Option: Enjoy a generous serving of this salad as a refreshing and satisfying light lunch. The combination of spinach, strawberries, and feta provides a good balance of nutrients and flavors to keep you feeling full and energized.
• Part of a Spring Brunch Spread: Include it in your spring brunch alongside other brunch favorites like quiches, frittatas, and pastries. Its bright flavors and beautiful presentation make it a standout dish on a brunch buffet.
• Paired with Grilled Chicken or Fish: Serve it as a side salad with grilled chicken breast, salmon, or white fish for a healthy and complete meal. The salad’s lightness balances the richness of grilled proteins.
• As a Salad Course Before a Meal: Start a dinner party with this salad as a refreshing and palate-cleansing first course. Its appealing appearance and delicious taste will impress your guests.
• Potluck or BBQ Contribution: It travels well (keep dressing separate until serving) and is always a hit at potlucks, picnics, and barbecues. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it a visually appealing and crowd-pleasing dish.
• Add Protein for a Main Course Salad: Make it a more substantial main course salad by adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or hard-boiled eggs. This turns it into a protein-packed meal that is still light and healthy.
• Serve with Crusty Bread: Offer slices of crusty baguette or focaccia bread alongside the salad to soak up the delicious balsamic vinaigrette and create a more complete and satisfying meal.

Additional Tips for the Best Spinach & Strawberry Easter Salad

To elevate your Spinach & Strawberry Easter Salad to the next level, consider these helpful tips:

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: The key to a truly outstanding salad is using the freshest and best quality ingredients. Opt for vibrant, deeply colored strawberries that are ripe and fragrant. Choose fresh baby spinach that is crisp and not wilted. Good quality feta cheese and balsamic vinaigrette will also make a significant difference in the overall flavor.
2. Make Your Own Balsamic Vinaigrette: While store-bought balsamic vinaigrette is convenient, homemade dressing is often fresher and tastier. It also allows you to control the ingredients and sweetness level. A simple homemade vinaigrette can be made with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup (optional), salt, and pepper.
3. Don’t Overdress the Salad: Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more as needed. Overdressing can make the salad soggy and mask the fresh flavors of the ingredients. It’s always better to underdress and add more dressing at the table if desired.
4. Toast the Nuts Fresh: Toasted nuts add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor to the salad. For the best results, toast the nuts just before serving to ensure they are at their crispiest. Toasting ahead of time can cause them to lose their crunch if exposed to moisture.
5. Chill the Spinach and Strawberries: For an extra refreshing salad, chill the spinach and strawberries in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before assembling. This will help keep the salad cool and crisp, especially if serving outdoors or on a warm day.
6. Add a Touch of Citrus Zest: For a brighter flavor profile, consider adding a little lemon or orange zest to the salad or the vinaigrette. The citrus zest will enhance the sweetness of the strawberries and add a refreshing zing.
7. Vary the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of feta cheese, you can substitute it with other cheeses like goat cheese, crumbled blue cheese, or even fresh mozzarella balls. Each cheese will bring a slightly different flavor dimension to the salad.
8. Prepare Components Ahead of Time: To save time when serving, you can prepare individual components of the salad in advance. Wash and dry the spinach, slice the strawberries, crumble the feta, and toast the nuts. Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Make the dressing ahead of time as well. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving for optimal freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Spinach & Strawberry Easter Salad

Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the individual components ahead of time. Wash and dry the spinach, slice the strawberries, crumble the feta, and toast the nuts. Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a day. Make the dressing and store it separately as well. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent wilting.

Q2: Can I use frozen strawberries if fresh strawberries are not available?

A: While fresh strawberries are highly recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Thaw the frozen strawberries completely and drain off any excess liquid before using them in the salad. Keep in mind that thawed frozen strawberries may be softer than fresh ones and might release more moisture, so adjust the dressing accordingly.

Q3: I don’t like balsamic vinaigrette. What other dressing can I use?

A: If you’re not a fan of balsamic vinaigrette, you can use other dressings that complement the flavors of spinach and strawberries. Good alternatives include a lemon vinaigrette, a poppy seed dressing, a raspberry vinaigrette, or even a light honey-mustard vinaigrette. Experiment to find your favorite flavor combination.

Q4: Can I add other fruits or vegetables to this salad?

A: Absolutely! This salad is very versatile. You can add other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or mandarin oranges. For vegetables, consider adding cucumber slices, avocado chunks, or bell pepper strips. Be mindful of flavor balance and choose additions that complement the spinach and strawberries.

Q5: How do I store leftover Spinach & Strawberry Easter Salad?

A: It’s best to consume this salad immediately after dressing for optimal freshness. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep in mind that the spinach may wilt slightly, and the salad might become a bit soggy over time. It’s generally best enjoyed within a few hours of being dressed.

Q6: Can I make this salad vegan or dairy-free?

A: Yes, you can easily make this salad vegan and dairy-free. Simply omit the feta cheese. To maintain a salty and savory element, consider adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or some toasted sunflower seeds for a different texture and flavor profile. Ensure your balsamic vinaigrette is also vegan (some may contain honey).

Q7: How can I make this salad more substantial for a main course?

A: To make this salad a more filling main course, you can add protein. Grilled chicken or shrimp are excellent additions. For vegetarian options, consider adding chickpeas, lentils, or hard-boiled eggs. Adding quinoa or farro can also boost the protein and fiber content and make it a heartier meal.

Q8: Can I use different types of nuts?

A: Yes, you can substitute the almonds or pecans with other nuts you prefer. Walnuts, pistachios, or even pine nuts would work well. Each type of nut will bring a slightly different flavor and texture to the salad. Make sure to toast them for the best flavor and crunch.

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