Strawberry Spinach Salad With Feta

Name: Strawberry Spinach Salad With Feta
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup sliced almonds (optional); 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Highlighted under: Everyday Healthy Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love making this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta, especially during the summer months when strawberries are at their peak. The combination of fresh spinach, sweet strawberries, and creamy feta cheese creates a delightful explosion of flavor. I often add a homemade vinaigrette to elevate the taste even further. It's a dish that's not only quick to prepare but also a colorful addition to any meal. Whether you enjoy it as a side or a light main course, this salad is sure to impress!

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:49:35.879Z

When I first experimented with this Strawberry Spinach Salad, I was amazed by how the flavors melded together. I remembered needing a refreshing dish for a summer barbecue, and this salad quickly became a standout. Using ripe strawberries not only adds sweetness but also a burst of color, making it visually appealing on the table.

To take this recipe to the next level, I learned the importance of balancing flavors. The saltiness of the feta and the acidity from the vinaigrette perfectly complement the sweetness of the strawberries. I recommend letting the salad marinate for a few minutes before serving, allowing the ingredients to harmonize just right.

Why You Will Love This Salad
A refreshing blend of sweet and savory flavors
Light and healthy, perfect for warm weather
Easy to prepare and great for entertaining

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh spinach as the base of this salad is crucial for achieving the right texture and flavor. Fresh spinach adds a light, crisp quality, making each bite refreshing. Be sure to choose vibrant green leaves without any wilted edges for optimal taste. If you're making this salad ahead of time, keep the spinach separate until ready to serve to maintain its crunchiness.

The strawberries bring a natural sweetness that balances the savory feta cheese beautifully. Look for strawberries that are firm and fragrant, as they're likely to be the sweetest. You can even try mixing in other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, for a twist, but remember they will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Customizing Your Salad

Feel free to get creative when it comes to the toppings! While sliced almonds are a fantastic addition for crunch and nuttiness, you can substitute them with walnuts or pecans, which also pair well with the creamy feta. Toasting the nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes enhances their flavor, giving the salad an extra depth of taste.

If you're looking for a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas to make this salad more filling while still keeping it light. Simply toss them in just before serving to keep everything fresh. For a vegan version, replace feta with a crumbly tofu alternative and opt for a dressing made with olive oil and lemon juice instead of balsamic vinaigrette.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta:

Ingredients

8 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup sliced almonds (optional)
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're one step closer to enjoying this delightful salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, and red onion. Toss gently to mix.

Add Cheese and Nuts

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and sliced almonds over the salad mixture.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to ensure everything is coated evenly.

Serve

Let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy!

Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful salad!

Pro Tips

For added sweetness, you can include a teaspoon of honey in your vinaigrette or even add some sliced kiwi or apples for more fruity flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can wash and prepare the spinach, strawberries, and onions a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge to maintain their freshness. Just before serving, assemble the salad and drizzle on the vinaigrette; this ensures the greens remain crisp and the strawberries juicy.

If you plan to make the salad a few hours ahead of time, consider leaving out the vinaigrette until just before serving. This prevents the salad from becoming soggy and helps retain that enjoyable crunch.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it an excellent side for summer barbecues. If you're serving it as a main course, consider accompanying it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread to soak up any leftover vinaigrette. The lightness of the salad contrasts nicely with heartier dishes.

For a beautiful presentation at gatherings, arrange the salad on a large platter instead of individual bowls. This not only looks inviting but also encourages guests to help themselves. You can garnish with additional feta and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or mint for a stunning touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, goat cheese or mozzarella works well in this salad as alternatives to feta.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

You can omit the feta and use a plant-based vinaigrette to keep it vegan.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance but dress it just before serving to maintain freshness.

→ What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or can be served as a side to barbecued dishes.