FRESH STRAWBERRY SPINACH SALAD WITH BALSAMIC
Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic is a bright and nutritious dish that combines sweet and juicy strawberries with tender baby spinach and crunchy sunflower seeds. A drizzle of tangy balsamic vinegar brings it all together in a harmonious and lively flavour profile. This light and colourful salad is perfect for lunch, a side dish at dinner or a refreshing addition to brunch. It’s ready in moments, requires no cooking and is naturally vegan, gluten-free and low in fat. This Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic is made with just four wholesome ingredients. You get a satisfying mix of vitamins, antioxidants and texture that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Great for warm-weather meals, picnic baskets or quick weekday bites, this salad offers maximum freshness with minimal fuss, making it ideal for anyone seeking a simple yet elegant plant-based option.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No-Cook, Prepared in Advance
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Spring, Summer, Picnic, Mother’s Day, Graduation, Backyard BBQ
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Vegetarian, Quick & Easy, Healthy, Low Fat, Low Sodium, Raw, Wheat / Gluten-Free, Kid Friendly
DISH TYPE
Salad
INGREDIENTS
The ingredients required for Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic are listed below:
- 30 grams | 1.06 ounces | 1 cup baby spinach
- 40 grams | 1.41 ounces | ¼ cup sliced strawberries
- 9 grams | 0.32 ounces | 1 tablespoon sunflower seeds
- 5 milliliters | 0.17 fluid ounces | 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 77 kilocalories
- Protein: 3.1 grams
- Carbohydrate: 7.2 grams
- Sugar: 3.1 grams
- Fibre: 2.6 grams
- Fat: 4.7 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 grams
- Sodium: 26 milligrams
- Potassium: 318 milligrams
- Calcium: 45 milligrams
- Iron: 1.6 milligrams
PREPARATION
- Wash Greens: Rinse baby spinach thoroughly and gently pat dry or spin in a salad spinner.
- Slice Strawberries: Hull and slice strawberries into thin pieces.
- Assemble Salad: Place spinach and strawberries in a bowl.
- Add Seeds: Sprinkle sunflower seeds over the top.
- Dress: Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately or chill for a few minutes before serving for an extra-fresh taste.
PREPARATION TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
0 minutes
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad With Balsamic:
- Dry Spinach: Ensure leaves are dry to help the vinaigrette cling better.
- Fresh Berries: Use ripe, firm strawberries to avoid soggy fruit.
- Balance Flavour: Add a tiny pinch of salt if needed to enhance sweetness and depth.
- Gentle Tossing: Mix lightly to preserve the texture of berries and greens.
- Presentation: Serve on a chilled plate for a crisp mouthfeel.
VARIATIONS
- Creamy Twist: Add slices of avocado or vegan cheese for a creamy contrast.
- Herb Freshness: Include fresh mint or basil for extra aromatic notes.
- Nut Upgrade: Substitute or mix sunflower seeds with chopped walnuts or almonds.
- Fruit Mix: Add raspberries or blueberries for extra antioxidants and colour.
- Add Protein: Mix in chickpeas or grilled tofu for a more filling option.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Best consumed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 8 hours. Add dressing just before serving.
- Freezing Not Suitable: Strawberries and spinach lose texture when frozen.
- Make-Ahead: Pre-portion seeds and fruit separately, so you can assemble just before eating.
- Keep Crisp: Store spinach and strawberries separately to maintain freshness.
