Strawberry Almond Spinach Salad

Name: Strawberry Almond Spinach Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup strawberries, sliced; 1/2 cup almonds, sliced or slivered; 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional); 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Balanced Bites

I love preparing this Strawberry Almond Spinach Salad, especially during the warmer months. The vibrant colors of fresh strawberries and crunchy almonds bring life to any meal. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, it has the perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness. Not only is it refreshing and full of flavor, but it also packs a nutritional punch with the goodness of spinach. Every bite feels like a celebration of spring and summer, making it a go-to for me when I'm looking for a quick, healthy option.

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:05:36.320Z

When I first made this Strawberry Almond Spinach Salad, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could come together to create something so flavorful and satisfying. The combination of fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, and crunchy almonds creates a delightful textural contrast that I simply can't resist. I love topping it off with a homemade vinaigrette, which really ties all the flavors together.

Over the years, I've experimented with the dressing and found that adding a hint of balsamic vinegar enhances the sweetness of the strawberries while balancing the nuttiness of the almonds. This technique not only elevates the dish but also provides a bright, refreshing finish that's perfect for warm weather lunches or light dinners.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The vibrant mix of flavors and textures make every bite exciting.
A healthy option that's both satisfying and light.
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Strawberry Almond Spinach Salad plays a crucial role in developing the dish's unique flavor and texture. Spinach serves as a base packed with vitamins and minerals, providing a nutrient-rich green backdrop. The strawberries add a bright, juicy sweetness that perfectly contrasts with the crunch of the sliced almonds. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or pecans can be excellent substitutes, offering their distinct flavor profiles while maintaining that enjoyable crunch.

Feta cheese is optional, but it's worth considering adding for those who enjoy a tangy element. It enhances the overall flavor and adds creaminess, balancing out the salad's earthy and sweet notes. If you're looking for a dairy-free version, try using avocado instead, which will provide a rich texture without compromising the salad's freshness.

Preparation Tips

When preparing the dressing, ensure you whisk it vigorously until the mixture is glossy and well combined. This emulsification process means the oil and vinegar blend seamlessly, preventing separation once applied to the salad. If you prefer a stronger flavor, consider increasing the balsamic vinegar by a teaspoon or two, but adjust the honey to maintain balance.

The salad can be assembled ahead of time, but if you're looking for optimal freshness, it's best to dress it just before serving. If you have leftover components, store them separately. Spinach tends to wilt quickly when dressed, so keep the dressing in a sealed container and add it when you're ready to enjoy your salad.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create an effortlessly delicious salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 cups fresh spinach
1 cup strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup almonds, sliced or slivered
1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the spinach, strawberries, almonds, feta cheese, and red onion. Gently toss to combine.

Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your salad fresh!

Pro Tips

For added flair, try adding avocado or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Almond Spinach Salad is versatile and can be served as a light lunch or as a side dish for grilled meats. If you're hosting a gathering, consider preparing individual salad portions in jars, layering the ingredients for an eye-catching presentation. You can drizzle dressing on top just before serving, ensuring everything remains fresh and crisp.

To make it a complete meal, add grilled chicken or shrimp for protein. Simply marinate the protein with olive oil, salt, and balsamic vinegar, then grill until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Toss the cooked protein over the salad just before serving—a delightful twist to an already refreshing dish.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover salad without dressing, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. This way, the spinach remains crisp, and you can simply dress it when you're ready to eat. If the salad has already been dressed, it's best consumed within a few hours for the best texture and taste.

For a quick refresh the next day, consider adding a touch of freshly squeezed lemon juice or extra balsamic vinegar to invigorate the flavors. The acidity can perk up the wilted greens, making the salad enjoyable even after a day in the fridge. Always remember to keep any added nuts or cheese separate until just before serving to maintain their crunch and quality.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to prepare the salad fresh, but you can store the salad ingredients and dressing separately for a few hours.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese, blue cheese, or omit it entirely for a dairy-free option.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and store them separately from the dressing to maintain freshness.