Strawberry Spinach Salad With Feta

Name: Strawberry Spinach Salad With Feta
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh spinach leaves; 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Highlighted under: Fresh Start Meals

I absolutely love creating refreshing salads during the warmer months, and this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta is one of my favorites. The combination of sweet strawberries and creamy feta cheese tossed with tender spinach leaves is simply delightful. Not only is it a burst of color, but it also offers a balance of flavors that keeps me coming back for more. Whether I'm serving it as a side dish at a barbecue or as a light lunch, this salad never fails to impress and satisfy.

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:49:35.855Z

When I first tried this salad at a summer picnic, I was blown away by how the flavors complemented one another. The sweetness of the strawberries pairs perfectly with the saltiness of the feta, creating a symphony of taste. I like to add a touch of balsamic vinegar to amplify the flavors and give it an added complexity.

One specific tip I learned is to let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving. This rest allows the spinach to absorb some of the dressing, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Now, it’s one of my go-to choices for any gathering!

Why You Will Love This Salad
Vibrant colors and delightful textures in every bite
Sweet and savory flavors that create a delicious balance
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Strawberry Spinach Salad is undoubtedly the vibrant strawberries. Choosing ripe, sweet berries is crucial, as they elevate the dish with their juicy flavor. When selecting strawberries, look for deep red fruit without white tips—these are signs of ripeness. If you're preparing this salad during the off-season for strawberries, consider using thawed frozen strawberries; just ensure to drain excess moisture to prevent a soggy salad.

Spinach provides the perfect base for this salad, bringing a delicate texture that complements the heartiness of the feta. Use young, tender spinach leaves when possible, as they are less bitter and more flavorful. If you prefer, you can substitute with baby kale or arugula for a slightly different taste profile. Each of these greens will provide a unique twist while still working harmoniously with the other ingredients.

Tips for Perfect Assembly

When preparing the salad, it's essential to keep the spinach leaves whole and unbroken. This prevents them from wilting and helps them maintain a crisp texture. I like to wash and thoroughly dry the spinach using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towels beforehand. Wilted greens can lead to a less appetizing presentation and taste, so handling them gently is key.

As for the feta, crumbling it yourself instead of buying pre-crumbled cheese can significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your salad. Freshly crumbled feta has a creamier consistency and a stronger taste, making it a delightful complement to the sweetness of the strawberries. Plus, it allows you to control the size of the cheese bites in your salad.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for your salad:

Ingredients

4 cups fresh spinach leaves
2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Mix these ingredients together for a delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, chopped walnuts, and thinly sliced red onion.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try roasting the walnuts before adding them to the salad.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is best served fresh, but you can prepare the components in advance. Wash and chop the strawberries and spinach, crumble the feta, and chop the walnuts the night before. Keep each ingredient separate in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Just assemble the salad shortly before serving to prevent sogginess.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to a day, but note that the spinach will start to wilt. To avoid this, consider keeping the dressing separate and only adding it right before serving. This way, you can enjoy a crisp salad even after it’s been made ahead of time.

Serving Suggestions

This salad shines as a side dish but can easily be turned into a more substantial meal. To do this, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for additional protein, making it a fantastic option for a light lunch or dinner. The addition of quinoa or couscous could also enhance the salad's heartiness while still keeping it light and refreshing.

For a different twist on flavor, try incorporating fresh herbs like mint or basil, which pair exceptionally well with both strawberries and feta. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the overall flavors and adds a zesty counterpoint to the creamy feta and sweet strawberries.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the spinach crispy.

→ What else can I add to this salad?

You can include sliced cucumbers, avocado, or even grilled chicken for added protein.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.