This spinach strawberry salad with blueberries, pecans, feta cheese, and a homemade balsamic glaze is a fresh, balanced dish that fits perfectly into healthy eating routines. It combines sweet berries, crisp greens, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese for a salad that works for everyday meals or special occasions.
Table of Contents
Introduction
A spinach strawberry salad with blueberries and feta is one of those recipes that never feels boring. This spinach berry feta salad balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors while keeping the ingredients simple and easy to find. Whether you are searching for healthy spinach salad with berries or a colorful salad with berries for a gathering, this recipe delivers dependable results. Using fresh spinach, ripe strawberries, blueberries, toasted pecans, and a quick balsamic glaze, this salad comes together fast and fits well into a healthy lifestyle.
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Spinach Strawberry Salad with Blueberries, Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze
Description
A fresh spinach strawberry salad with blueberries, toasted pecans, feta cheese, and a simple balsamic glaze.
Ingredients
1 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
10 oz baby spinach
3 cups strawberries, sliced
1 cup blueberries
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 cup toasted pecans
Instructions
1. Simmer balsamic vinegar and honey until thickened, then cool.
2. Wash and dry spinach and place in a large bowl.
3. Add strawberries and blueberries.
4. Toast pecans and sprinkle over salad.
5. Add feta cheese.
6. Drizzle balsamic glaze before serving and toss gently.
Notes
Add dressing just before serving to keep spinach fresh.
Store components separately for advance prep.
Ingredients
Balsamic Glaze Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Balsamic vinegar | 1 cup |
| Honey or brown sugar | ¼ cup |
Spinach Strawberry Salad Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Baby spinach, fresh | 10 oz |
| Strawberries, sliced | 3 cups |
| Blueberries | 1 cup |
| Feta cheese, crumbled | ⅓ cup |
| Pecans, toasted | 1 cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions and Helpful Tips
Start by preparing the balsamic glaze. Pour the balsamic vinegar and honey or brown sugar into a small saucepan and place it over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat slightly and let it cook until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Remove it from the heat and allow it to cool, as it will thicken more as it rests.
While the glaze cools, wash and dry the baby spinach thoroughly. Place it in a large serving bowl so there is room to toss without spilling. Clean the strawberries, remove the stems, and slice them evenly so each bite has balanced flavor. Add the strawberries and blueberries directly over the spinach.
Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they smell fragrant and look lightly browned. Let them cool, then roughly chop some of them while leaving others whole for texture. Sprinkle the pecans over the salad, followed by the crumbled feta cheese.
Just before serving, drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze over the salad. Toss gently to avoid bruising the berries and spinach. Serve immediately for the best texture and appearance.
For best results, always add the balsamic glaze right before serving. This keeps the spinach fresh and prevents wilting. If preparing ahead, store all components separately and assemble just before eating.
Conclusion
This spinach strawberry salad with blueberries, pecans, feta cheese, and balsamic glaze is a simple recipe that delivers fresh flavor and visual appeal. It works as a light main dish or a reliable side and fits easily into healthy meal plans. With basic ingredients and clear steps, this salad is one you can return to again and again.
FAQ
What makes this spinach strawberry salad healthy?
This spinach strawberry salad uses fresh greens, berries, nuts, and a simple balsamic glaze without processed ingredients, making it a balanced and nutrient-rich option.
Can I make spinach berry feta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead, but keep the balsamic glaze separate and assemble just before serving for best results.
Can I substitute another cheese for feta?
Goat cheese works well if you want a softer texture, but feta adds a clean, salty contrast that pairs well with berries.
Is this salad good for meal prep?
It can be used for short-term meal prep if stored without dressing and assembled close to serving time.