Sunkissed Strawberry Spinach Salad

Name: Sunkissed Strawberry Spinach Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh baby spinach; 2 cups strawberries, sliced; 1/2 cup sliced almonds; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Recipes

I absolutely adore the vibrant flavors and colors of a fresh salad, and this Sunkissed Strawberry Spinach Salad is one of my favorites. The combination of sweet strawberries, tender spinach, and crunchy nuts creates a delightful texture contrast that’s hard to resist. Topped with a tangy vinaigrette, it brings brightness to any meal. Whether it's a light lunch, a side at dinner, or a dish for a potluck, this salad is sure to please. Let’s dive into how to create this beautiful dish!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-13T13:53:30.517Z

Creating this Sunkissed Strawberry Spinach Salad has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. I remember the first time I whipped it up for a summer picnic; the compliments were endless! The freshness of the ingredients, combined with the vibrant dressing, made it an instant hit, and I couldn’t help but feel proud serving it to my friends.

One key tip I discovered while making this salad is to always pick ripe strawberries. The sweetness of the berries really elevates the overall flavor, and if you toss them with the spinach just before serving, they stay firm and juicy. Trust me, this small detail makes all the difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bursting with freshness from seasonal strawberries
Nutty flavor combined with a light, tangy dressing
Perfectly balanced for a healthy yet satisfying meal

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When preparing the Sunkissed Strawberry Spinach Salad, using the freshest ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture. Opt for vibrant, unripened strawberries that have a bright red color, and tender baby spinach leaves that are crisp and unblemished. Fresh ingredients will not only enhance the overall taste but will also contribute essential nutrients and vibrant colors that make the salad visually appealing.

If you're sourcing strawberries out of season or want to save some time, consider using frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before use; otherwise, excess moisture could dilute the salad’s flavors and texture. Always choose organic options when possible to ensure you're avoiding pesticides and maximizing the salad's freshness.

Mastering the Vinaigrette

The dressing is the heart of this salad, tying all the ingredients together with its tangy and slightly sweet profile. For the best results, use high-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar. A good-quality oil will have a rich, peppery flavor that can elevate the entire dish. If you find balsamic vinegar too sharp, try a mild apple cider vinegar for a gentler taste.

To ensure the dressing emulsifies effectively, whisk continuously while slowly adding the olive oil. This creates a glossy, well-blended mixture that coats the salad evenly. If you prefer a creamier dressing, consider adding a spoonful of Greek yogurt, which will add richness without overwhelming the flavors.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Sunkissed Strawberry Spinach Salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 cups fresh baby spinach
2 cups strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have gathered all your ingredients, you are ready to start!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your salad:

Prepare the Dressing

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

Combine the Ingredients

In a large salad bowl, add the spinach, sliced strawberries, almonds, feta cheese, and red onion.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, making sure to coat everything evenly.

Serve

Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors, or chill in the fridge for a few minutes for a refreshing dish.

Your salad is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added texture, feel free to substitute the almonds with walnuts or pecans. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like goat cheese, if you prefer a milder flavor.

Storing and Make-Ahead Options

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, if you’d like to prepare it ahead of time, consider storing the components separately. Keep the spinach, strawberries, and nuts in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and prepare the dressing in a jar. This way, you can assemble everything just before serving to retain the crispness of the spinach and the juiciness of the strawberries.

If you have leftovers, it's best to store them separately as well. Combined, the spinach will become soggy from the dressing, while the strawberries may lose their luscious texture. Store the components together for only one day to maintain quality, and enjoy them the next day for a quick lunch.

Variations and Add-Ins

This Sunkissed Strawberry Spinach Salad is incredibly versatile. To add more protein, consider including grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. These additions will transform the salad into a satisfying main course, perfect for a lighter dinner option. You can also substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese for a creamier bite or leave it out entirely for a dairy-free version.

For a touch of sweetness, try adding a handful of dried cranberries or blueberries. Not only do they complement the strawberries beautifully, but they also infuse a burst of flavor. To add a little spice, toss in some fresh herbs like basil or mint, which will elevate the fresh flavors and add an aromatic touch to the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to assemble the salad just before serving. However, you can prepare the ingredients and store them separately until ready to toss together.

→ What other fruits can I use?

You can easily swap strawberries for blueberries, peaches, or even diced apples for a different twist on the salad.

→ Is it possible to make the dressing vegan?

Absolutely! You can replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option.

→ How long will the salad stay fresh?

If stored properly in the refrigerator, the salad can last for up to 2 days, although it’s best enjoyed fresh.