What makes a perfect spring salad? Combine fresh strawberries and baby spinach with crunchy almonds and tangy feta cheese for a quick and easy weeknight dinner solution. Save this idea for a delicious homemade meal to enjoy anytime.

strawberry spinach salad with almonds and feta cheese

Introduction

This strawberry spinach salad with almonds and feta cheese is a symphony of flavors and textures that will elevate your mealtime to a whole new level. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires just a few everyday ingredients. The sweetness of the strawberries, the earthiness of the spinach, the crunch of the almonds, and the tanginess of the feta cheese all come together to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Whether you’re looking for a quick and healthy lunch, a side dish for your next dinner party, or just a creative way to use up some fresh ingredients, this salad is sure to impress.

Why This Works

The balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors creates a delicious and refreshing taste experience that will leave you wanting more.
This salad is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a few minutes of chopping and mixing, and can be made ahead of time for convenience.
The combination of fresh strawberries, baby spinach, crunchy almonds, and creamy feta cheese creates a visually appealing dish that’s perfect for serving to guests or posting on social media.

Key Ingredients

This salad features a few key ingredients that come together to create its unique flavor and texture. Fresh strawberries provide natural sweetness, while baby spinach adds a boost of nutrients and freshness. Sliced almonds contribute a satisfying crunch, and crumbled feta cheese adds a tangy, creamy element. You can also customize the salad to your taste by substituting other types of cheese, nuts, or even adding some grilled chicken or salmon for extra protein.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by washing and drying a handful of fresh baby spinach leaves. Remove any stems or bruised leaves and set the spinach aside in a large bowl.
Step 2: Hull and slice a pint of fresh strawberries. You can use any variety of strawberry you like, but sweeter varieties like Albion or Camarosa work particularly well in this salad.
Step 3: Slice a quarter cup of almonds. You can use sliced almonds or chop whole almonds into thin slices for added texture.
Step 4: Crumble a quarter cup of feta cheese into small pieces. You can use any type of feta you like, but a high-quality, tangy feta works best in this salad.
Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together a tablespoon of olive oil, a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, and a teaspoon of honey until well combined. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Add the sliced strawberries, sliced almonds, and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl with the spinach. Drizzle the dressing over the top of the salad and toss to combine.
Step 7: Serve the salad immediately, garnished with additional sliced strawberries and almonds if desired.

Handy Tips

Make sure to wash and dry the spinach thoroughly before using it in the salad to prevent excess moisture from making the salad soggy.
Don’t overdress the salad – the dressing should lightly coat the ingredients without overpowering them.
Consider adding other ingredients to the salad to customize it to your taste, such as diced grilled chicken or salmon, chopped pecans or walnuts, or even a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese.

Heat Control

This salad is best served at room temperature or chilled, so there’s no need to worry about heat control. However, if you’re adding grilled chicken or salmon to the salad, make sure to cook the protein to the recommended internal temperature to ensure food safety.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this salad comes from the sliced almonds, which add a satisfying texture to the dish. To enhance the crunch factor, try adding other crunchy ingredients like chopped pecans or walnuts, or even some crispy fried onions or shallots.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

Use a high-quality, flavorful olive oil in the dressing to add depth and richness to the salad.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese, nuts, or fruit to create a unique flavor combination that’s all your own.
Consider making the salad ahead of time and storing it in the refrigerator for up to a day to allow the flavors to meld together.

Storage Tips

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day.
Keep the dressing separate from the salad ingredients and dress the salad just before serving to prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy.
Consider using a vacuum sealer or glass container with a tight-fitting lid to keep the salad fresh and prevent moisture from accumulating.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This salad is perfect for gifting to friends or family members, especially during the spring and summer months when fresh strawberries are in season. Consider packaging the salad in a beautiful glass or wooden bowl, or even a mason jar with a decorative lid. Add some fresh flowers or greenery to the top of the salad for a pop of color and a personal touch.

Flavor Variations

Try adding some diced grilled chicken or salmon to the salad for extra protein and flavor.
Swap out the feta cheese for a different type of cheese, such as goat cheese or blue cheese, for a unique flavor combination.
Add some chopped pecans or walnuts to the salad for extra crunch and texture.

Troubleshooting

If the salad becomes too soggy, try adding some more spinach or almonds to absorb the excess moisture.
If the dressing is too thick, try whisking in a little more olive oil or vinegar to thin it out.
If the salad is too bland, try adding some more honey or balsamic vinegar to the dressing to give it a boost of flavor.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? No, this salad is best served fresh and does not freeze well.
Is it gluten-free? Yes, this salad is gluten-free and can be enjoyed by those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, this salad can be easily doubled or tripled to feed a larger crowd. Just be sure to adjust the amount of dressing accordingly to prevent the salad from becoming too soggy.

Conclusion

This strawberry spinach salad with almonds and feta cheese is a delicious and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any time of year. With its unique flavor combination and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to impress your friends and family. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy this tasty salad today!

Strawberry Spinach Feta Salad