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: 4 cups fresh spinach; 2 cups strawberries, sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup sliced almonds (or walnuts); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Balanced Living Kitchen

I absolutely love vibrant salads, and this Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta is one of my favorites. The combination of juicy strawberries and fresh spinach creates a refreshing base, while the feta adds a savory touch that balances everything out. I enjoy making this salad for summer picnics or light dinners. The flavors meld beautifully, especially when topped with a homemade vinaigrette that I like to whip up. It's a delightful way to brighten any meal with a burst of color and flavor.

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:16:11.591Z

When I first made this Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad, it was for a summer barbecue. The vibrant colors drew everyone in, and it quickly became a hit. I love to use the ripest strawberries I can find, as they add a wonderful sweetness to the salad. Pairing them with tender spinach made for a refreshing contrast.

One crucial element is the vinaigrette. I usually mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey for a perfect dressing that elevates the salad. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors combine beautifully!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing blend of sweet strawberries and savory feta cheese
Perfect balance of textures between crunchy nuts and tender spinach
Great for summer gatherings or a light, healthy meal

Ingredients Matter

The choice of ingredients significantly impacts the overall flavor and texture of your Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad. Opting for in-season strawberries will enhance the sweetness and juiciness of the salad. When selecting spinach, look for vibrant, fresh leaves without wilting or discoloration. For the feta cheese, choosing a creamy variety can add a luxurious richness that melds beautifully with the other ingredients. Each element plays a distinct role, contributing to the salad's refreshing yet savory profile.

Using sliced almonds provides a delightful crunch, but you can easily substitute them with walnuts or pecans if you prefer. Just ensure they are lightly toasted to release their oils and deepen their flavor, which makes a significant difference. If you want a nut-free version, consider adding sunflower seeds for crunch or even crispy, baked chickpeas for an extra protein boost without losing texture.

Assembly Tips

When assembling your salad, it's essential to mix the ingredients gently to maintain the integrity of the delicate spinach and strawberries. I recommend using your hands for this task, as they provide a more gentle touch than utensils. Toss everything together until the spinach is evenly coated with the vinaigrette, which helps to marry the flavors. Be cautious not to over-toss, as this may cause the spinach to bruise and wilt before serving.

If you're preparing the salad ahead of time, keep the vinaigrette separate until just before serving. This will prevent the spinach from becoming soggy. You can store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it convenient for future meals. I often whip up a double batch to have on hand for added convenience!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious salad:

Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad Ingredients

4 cups fresh spinach
2 cups strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup sliced almonds (or walnuts)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

Wash the spinach thoroughly and pat it dry. Slice the strawberries and set aside.

Make the Vinaigrette

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

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, and nuts. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the top and toss gently.

Serve and Enjoy

Top with crumbled feta cheese before serving. Enjoy this light and refreshing salad!

Pro Tips

For added texture, you can also include avocado slices or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or mint!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare certain components ahead of time for ease. Wash and dry the spinach, then store it in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. Strawberries can be sliced a day in advance too; just keep them in a sealed container to prevent browning. However, wait to add the nuts and feta until you're ready to serve to maintain their desired texture and flavor.

If you do have leftovers, store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but be aware that the texture may soften over time. The vinaigrette can also be made in advance, and you'll find that its flavors deepen the longer it sits. Just give it a good shake or whisk before drizzling it over your salad.

Variation Ideas

Feel free to vary the salad based on your preferences or what’s available in your kitchen. Add some sliced grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal, making the salad suitable as a main dish. Additionally, experimenting with different cheeses, such as goat cheese or blue cheese, can offer new flavor profiles that pair perfectly with the sweetness of strawberries.

For an extra kick, try adding thinly sliced red onion or a handful of fresh herbs like mint or basil. These aromatic upgrades can enhance the salad's complexity and freshness. Consider also drizzling a bit of lemon juice for a zesty finish that brightens the overall flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients separately and assemble before serving.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative if you're looking for a non-dairy option.

→ How can I make this salad more filling?

Adding grilled chicken or quinoa would make this salad a more substantial meal.

→ What's a good dressing alternative?

A citrus-based dressing with orange juice or a yogurt dressing would also pair nicely with the ingredients.