Description

This Spinach Strawberry Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that brings together tender spinach, juicy strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy nuts, all dressed in a sweet-tangy balsamic poppy seed vinaigrette. It’s the kind of salad that feels fancy but comes together in minutes, making it perfect for both busy weekdays and special gatherings. With its mix of colors and textures, it’s not just healthy—it’s also crave-worthy. This is a salad that even non-salad lovers will get excited about. Ideal as a light lunch, a stunning side dish, or even a brunch centerpiece.

Ingredients

Scale

6 cups fresh baby spinach
1 pint ripe strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/3 cup goat cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup candied pecans or slivered almonds

2. For the Dressing:

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/3 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon poppy seeds
Salt and black pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper until smooth.
In a large salad bowl, layer the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, red onions, and nuts.
Top with crumbled goat cheese.
Drizzle with dressing just before serving and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately.

Notes

For added protein, toss in grilled chicken or tofu.
Swap goat cheese with feta or blue cheese for a flavor twist.
Keep the dressing and toppings separate if prepping in advance.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Raw/No Cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4
Calories: 260
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 15mg