Strawberry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans
A vibrant medley of fresh strawberries and tender spinach, crowned with sweet, crunchy candied pecans for a salad that sings with every bite.
Total: 25 minPrep: 15 minCook: 10 minServes 4Difficulty: Easy⭐ 4.7 (234+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 6 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups sliced strawberries
- 1/2 cup candied pecans
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Steps
- 1 In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, feta cheese, and red onion.
- 2 In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- 3 Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
- 4 Top with candied pecans just before serving.
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
Variations
- Add grilled shrimp for a protein boost.
- Substitute pecans with walnuts for a different crunch.
Substitutions
- Use goat cheese if feta isn't available.
- Substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar for a different tang.
Pairings
- Grilled chicken
- Warm crusty bread
Nutrition
Calories:
280 kcal
Fat:
20g fat
Carbs:
18g carbohydrates
Protein:
6g protein
Fiber:
4g fiber
Sugar:
10g sugar
Sodium:
250mg sodium
Tips
- For the best texture, add candied pecans right before serving to keep them crunchy.
- Use fresh strawberries for optimal sweetness and flavor.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Freezing: This salad does not freeze well due to the fresh ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
- Serve with crusty bread on the side.
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but wait to add the dressing and candied pecans until just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crunchy.