Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese and Pecans
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese and Pecans is a delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors and a mix of textures. The sweetness of ripe strawberries, the creaminess of goat cheese, and the crunch of toasted pecans create a beautiful contrast. This salad is perfect as a light meal or a refreshing side dish at any gathering.
Why Make This Recipe
This salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. Spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals, while strawberries are rich in antioxidants. The goat cheese adds a creamy touch, and pecans provide healthy fats. Making this salad is simple and quick, making it an ideal choice for busy days or when you want to impress your guests with elegant yet easy food.
How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese and Pecans
Ingredients
- 5 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 1⁄2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1⁄2 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1⁄2 cup pecans, toasted
- 1⁄4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, toasted pecans, and sliced red onion.
- In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is emulsified.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat.
- Serve immediately as a fresh side dish or light meal.
How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese and Pecans
This salad is best served fresh. It makes a wonderful side dish for grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own. You could also pair it with crusty bread or a light soup for a complete meal.
How to Store Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese and Pecans
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best to keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve, as the spinach can wilt and lose its crispness when mixed with the dressing. Consume the salad within a day or two for the best freshness.
Tips to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese and Pecans
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta, if you’re not a fan of goat cheese.
- Add more toppings like grilled chicken or avocado for extra protein.
Variation
To switch things up, you can add sliced apples or pears for a different fruity flavor. Feel free to toss in other greens like arugula or kale for added variety.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare the salad just before serving. However, you can slice the strawberries and onions earlier in the day and store them in the fridge.
2. What can I use instead of goat cheese?
If you don’t like goat cheese, feta or blue cheese are great alternatives that will still complement the salad well.
3. Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes! Grilled chicken, quinoa, or chickpeas can be added to make this salad more filling and nutritious.
