A Taste of Summer: Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

There’s something magical about the arrival of strawberry season. In my family, it signals the start of long, sun-drenched days, picnics in the park, and meals that are light yet deeply satisfying. One dish that always finds its way to our table during this time is Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans.

This isn’t just a salad—it’s a nostalgic bite of summer, wrapped in the green of fresh spinach and the ruby red of ripe strawberries. Growing up, I remember this salad making an appearance every time we fired up the grill for lamb kebabs or beef sausages. My aunt would toss it together just before serving, the balsamic dressing glistening over every leaf and berry, and we’d all dig in, savoring the sweetness, the crunch, and the memories in every bite.

It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-beautiful, making it perfect for both impromptu lunches and festive gatherings. And best of all, it’s a recipe that feels like sunshine on a plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and fruity: Bursting with seasonal flavor.
• Quick and easy: From kitchen to table in under 20 minutes.
• Crowd-pleasing: Always a hit at potlucks, cookouts, and brunches.
• Nutritious and light: Naturally vegetarian and full of vitamins.
• Customizable: Add your favorite proteins or swap out the cheese and nuts to suit your taste.

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INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 5 oz baby spinach
• 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
• ¼ cup pecans

For Candied Pecans:

• ¼ cup pecans
• 1 Tbsp brown sugar
• ½ Tbsp butter

For Balsamic Dressing:

• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar or glaze
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 Tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Candy the Pecans
   Start by preparing the pecans. In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the pecans and brown sugar, stirring frequently until the sugar melts and coats the nuts. This takes about 2–3 minutes. Transfer them to a sheet of parchment paper to cool.
2. Prep the Salad Ingredients
   While the pecans cool, wash and dry your baby spinach. Hull and slice the strawberries. Crumble the cheese and set everything aside.

1. Whisk the Dressing
   In a small bowl or mason jar, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until well emulsified.
2. Assemble the Salad
   In a large serving bowl, layer the spinach, strawberries, crumbled cheese, and candied pecans. Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss just before serving.

Helpful Tips

• Add grilled chicken or beef sausage for a protein boost.
• Swap pecans for walnuts or sliced almonds.
• Use goat cheese for a creamier texture and subtler flavor.
• Make the dressing and candied pecans ahead for quick assembly.
• For extra crunch, sprinkle in sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: Tossed + stove for nuts
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

• Keep the dressing and salad separate until ready to serve for the freshest texture.
• You can substitute the balsamic vinegar with a pre-made glaze for extra thickness and sweetness.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 300 | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Carbohydrates: 23g | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 13g | Protein: 5g | Sodium: 260mg

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make a spinach salad with pecans?
To make a spinach salad with pecans, toss fresh baby spinach with sliced strawberries and roasted pecans. Add crumbled feta for creaminess and drizzle with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, and finely chopped shallots. This salad is fresh, crunchy, and perfect for lunch or brunch.

What is spinach salad with strawberries?
Spinach salad with strawberries is a fresh, colorful dish featuring baby spinach, juicy strawberries, toasted pecans, and creamy feta. It’s typically topped with a tangy vinaigrette, such as balsamic or a citrus-based dressing, making it a refreshing and satisfying option for warm-weather meals or festive gatherings.

How long does it take to make strawberry spinach salad?
Strawberry spinach salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. With minimal chopping and a quick homemade dressing, it’s a fast, flavorful side dish perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or picnics. Just combine fresh spinach, strawberries, pecans, and your favorite dressing, then serve immediately.

How do you make strawberry spinach salad topped with poppy seeds?
To make strawberry spinach salad with poppy seeds, combine baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and roasted pecans. For the dressing, whisk or shake together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, and poppy seeds. Pour over the salad just before serving for a sweet and tangy finish.

Storage Instructions

• Leftovers: Best enjoyed fresh. If already dressed, consume within a day.
• Undressed salad: Can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Candied pecans: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week.
• Dressing: Lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• A Story of Summer on a Plate
• The Peach Watermelon Salad That Tastes Like Summer
• Watermelon Berry Salad with Lime Mint Dressing
• A Summer Classic: Arugula Watermelon Feta Salad

Conclusion

Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is a refreshing, simple, and utterly delicious way to enjoy the season’s bounty. With sweet berries, crunchy candied nuts, and tangy cheese all wrapped in a silky balsamic vinaigrette, it’s the kind of dish that elevates any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a quiet lunch on your patio, this salad brings summer to your fork.