Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad With Feta

Name: Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad With Feta
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 6 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried; 1 cup strawberries, sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional); 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Plate Inspirations

I absolutely love this Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta; it’s one of my favorite go-to recipes for summer. The combination of sweet strawberries, fresh spinach, and tangy feta cheese creates a delightful burst of flavors. It’s simple to make and can serve as a light lunch or a stunning side dish for any occasion. Plus, the vibrant colors make it visually appealing, and I find that it’s a great way to impress guests without stressing out in the kitchen.

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:31:10.423Z

Making this salad has become a tradition at our family gatherings; it’s a dish that everyone looks forward to. The moment I toss the freshly washed spinach with ripe strawberries and creamy feta, I know it’s going to be a hit. One tip I learned is to add the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.

Another aspect I adore about this salad is how customizable it can be. Sometimes, I’ll toss in walnuts for an added crunch or drizzle a balsamic glaze over the top for extra flavor. Experimenting with it has made every version a delightful surprise!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Refreshing blend of sweet strawberries and savory feta cheese
Nutty flavors from spinach create a pleasing contrast
Perfect for any occasion, from casual lunches to elegant dinners

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to elevating this Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta. When selecting strawberries, look for bright red berries with a sweet aroma; this indicates ripeness. Avoid any berries with green or white patches, as they lack flavor. Similarly, opt for vibrant green spinach leaves without wilting, ensuring your salad is not only tasty but full of nutrients.

Feta cheese plays a crucial role in balancing the sweetness of the strawberries. A good quality feta should be crumbly yet creamy, providing that tangy pop with every bite. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, try using crumbled tofu marinated in lemon juice and salt—though it won’t mimic the exact flavor of feta, it adds a savory note that complements the salad beautifully.

Dressing It Right

The dressing for this salad is a simple yet vital component. Whisking together balsamic vinegar and olive oil creates a deliciously sharp and rich flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the spinach and strawberries. Consider using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a smoother texture and fruity notes. If balsamic vinegar isn’t available, apple cider vinegar can be a suitable substitute, offering its tangy element without changing the salad's character drastically.

When mixing the dressing, aim for an emulsification; this occurs when the vinegar and oil blend fully, resulting in a silky texture that coats the salad evenly. If your dressing appears too thin, add more olive oil until you reach your desired consistency. I recommend preparing the dressing just before serving to maintain its fresh flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a vibrant salad.

Salad Ingredients

6 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
1 cup strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Once you've gathered all ingredients, you're ready to assemble the salad.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad.

Prepare the Spinach and Strawberries

In a large bowl, add the fresh spinach and sliced strawberries. Make sure the spinach is thoroughly dried to avoid a soggy salad.

Add Feta and Onion

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and sliced red onion over the spinach and strawberries.

Make the Dressing

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

Toss and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss lightly to combine. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Your Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, consider using roasted nuts. You can also substitute strawberries with other berries based on your preference and seasonality.

Storage Tips

If you're looking to prepare this salad ahead of time, store the spinach, strawberries, and feta cheese separately until just before serving. This helps maintain the crispness of the spinach and prevents sogginess. Assemble the salad within a few hours of serving, adding the dressing right before you dig in to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. However, be aware that the salad will begin to lose its texture after a few hours due to the moisture from the dressing and the strawberries, so it's best enjoyed fresh.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a light yet satisfying meal. It also works beautifully as a side dish at picnics or barbecues, as its fresh flavors can cut through heavier foods like burgers and sausages.

For a twist, you could add protein such as grilled salmon or chickpeas to make it more substantial as an entrée. Incorporating other seasonal fruits like blueberries or peaches can also enhance the visual appeal and add layers of flavor—experimenting with various toppings can make this salad an ever-evolving dish!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to prepare this salad shortly before serving to keep the greens crisp; however, you can prep the ingredients a few hours in advance and mix them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you're not a fan of feta, goat cheese or even a vegan cheese can work as great alternatives.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can enhance the salad and make it more filling.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator but keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.