STRAWBERRY SPINACH DELIGHT
Strawberry spinach delight is a refreshing and nutrient-rich salad that perfectly balances sweet, tangy and creamy flavours. The tender baby spinach serves as a vibrant base, complemented by the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries and the rich, tangy notes of crumbled goat cheese. Chopped pecans provide a satisfying crunch, while a drizzle of balsamic dressing ties everything together with a light and zesty finish. This salad is not only a delight for the taste buds but also packed with vitamins, antioxidants and heart-healthy fats. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious lunch, a colourful appetiser or a side dish to accompany a summer meal, this salad is quick to prepare and full of flavour. Ideal for warm-weather gatherings, picnics or a simple yet elegant dish for any occasion, it’s a must-try for lovers of fresh, wholesome ingredients.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Side, Appetiser, Brunch
SERVING SIZE
1 serving
CUISINE
American, Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No-Cook
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Summer, Picnic, BBQ, Brunch, Family Gathering, Light Lunch, Party
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, Vegetarian, Quick & Easy, High Fibre, Gluten-Free, Low Fat
DISH TYPE
Salad
INGREDIENTS
The following are the ingredients we need to prepare this strawberry spinach delight.
- 50g baby spinach
- 20g strawberries, sliced
- 10g goat cheese, crumbled
- 5g pecans, chopped
- 1 tsp balsamic dressing
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 4g
- Fats: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Fibre: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 90mg
PREPARATION
- Prepare The Ingredients: Rinse and pat dry the baby spinach to remove excess moisture. Wash the strawberries thoroughly, hull them and slice them evenly.
- Chop The Pecans: Roughly chop the pecans to ensure a balance of texture in every bite. If desired, lightly toast them in a dry pan for extra flavour.
- Assemble The Salad: In a serving bowl, arrange the baby spinach as a base. Evenly distribute the sliced strawberries over the greens.
- Add The Toppings: Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the salad, followed by the chopped pecans.
- Dress The Salad: Drizzle the balsamic dressing evenly over the top.
- Toss And Serve: Gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients without crushing the delicate components. Serve immediately for the best flavour and texture.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
None
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for you when making this strawberry spinach delight.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for ripe, sweet strawberries and fresh baby spinach for the best flavour.
- Toast The Pecans: Lightly toasting the pecans enhances their nuttiness and adds an extra layer of crunch.
- Balance The Flavours: Adjust the balsamic dressing to taste—add a bit more if you prefer a tangier bite.
- Add A Touch Of Sweetness: If desired, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the salad for an extra hint of natural sweetness.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with grilled chicken or salmon for a more substantial meal.
VARIATIONS
- Nut-Free Alternative: Replace pecans with sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap goat cheese for avocado slices or a dairy-free feta alternative.
- Extra Protein: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas or quinoa to make this salad more filling.
- Citrus Twist: Toss in some orange segments or a splash of lemon juice for a bright, citrusy flavour.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat contrast.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. For best results, keep the dressing separate and add just before serving.
- Dressing Storage: The balsamic dressing can be stored in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. Shake well before using.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Chop the ingredients ahead of time but store them separately to maintain freshness.
- Avoid Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as fresh spinach and strawberries lose their texture when thawed.