Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad With Feta

Name: Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad With Feta
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried; 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup sliced almonds; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Mindful Meal Ideas

I absolutely love this Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta! It's a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the earthiness of fresh spinach. The creamy feta adds a wonderful saltiness, and the homemade dressing ties everything together beautifully. Every bite is a delightful balance of flavors, making it perfect for summer picnics or light lunches. I often make this salad when I want something that feels indulgent yet healthy, and it never fails to impress my family and friends.

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:28:09.217Z

Creating this Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta was a joyful experience for me. The combination of fresh ingredients made the salad vibrant and pleasing to the eye. I remember the first time I served this at a family gathering, and everyone was raving about the flavors. The addition of sliced almonds brings an unexpected crunch that complements the soft feta perfectly.

One tip I learned along the way is to let the salad sit for a few minutes after dressing it. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and enhances the overall taste. I especially enjoy this salad during strawberry season when the berries are the sweetest!

Why You'll Love This Salad
The sweet burst of strawberries balanced with savory feta cheese
Crunchy almonds add texture to every bite
Perfectly refreshing for hot weather or as a side dish

The Essential Ingredients

Fresh ingredients make a world of difference in this salad. Opt for ripe strawberries that are bright red and fragrant, as they provide the sweetest flavor. Look for spinach that is vibrant and crisp, avoiding any wilted or discolored leaves. The feta should be creamy and crumbly for the best texture, contributing to the salad's overall balance without overpowering the other ingredients.

The addition of sliced almonds introduces a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the juicy strawberries and creamy feta. If you prefer, you can substitute walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile, though almond pair well due to their mild nature. Each ingredient plays a specific role, helping to create harmony in both taste and texture.

Crafting The Perfect Dressing

The dressing is key to bringing this salad together. Using high-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar will elevate the flavors significantly. It's also essential to whisk the dressing thoroughly until it’s emulsified; this will help achieve a glossy finish that clings to the ingredients beautifully. Taste as you go—if you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a touch more honey, adjusting until it suits your palate.

Additionally, consider infusing your dressing with herbs like basil or mint for an extra layer of freshness. Just a teaspoon of finely chopped fresh herbs can transform the vinaigrette and enhance the overall experience of the salad. Remember to serve the salad immediately after dressing to preserve the freshness of the ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Dressing Ingredients

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

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the Salad Base

In a large salad bowl, add the fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced almonds.

Make the Dressing

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

Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

Serve Immediately

Enjoy the salad fresh! It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or as a refreshing standalone dish.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a heartier meal. Using a mix of greens can also add depth to the texture.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're preparing this salad for a gathering or meal prep, consider storing the salad ingredients and dressing separately. This will prevent the spinach from becoming wilted. You can wash and slice the strawberries and store them in an airtight container up to one day in advance, while the dressing can be made two to three days ahead of time. Just give it a good shake before using.

When ready to serve, mix the salad right before enjoying to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. If you do make the salad in advance, add the red onion and almonds only just before serving to keep their crunch.

Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is versatile, making it an excellent side dish for grilled meats, especially chicken or salmon. If you’re looking to serve it as a standalone meal, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas to boost protein content. Pairing it with a light, bright beverage, such as a sparkling water infused with lemon or mint, complements the salad's refreshing qualities perfectly.

For a complete summer meal, present the salad alongside crusty bread or croutons, providing additional texture. The contrast in textures between the soft strawberries and crunchy almonds, combined with a glass of chilled white wine or rosé, creates a delightful dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to prepare the salad just before serving, especially if you're using fresh strawberries, to avoid sogginess.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or even a dairy-free feta alternative for a similar flavor profile.

→ How long does this salad last?

This salad is best eaten fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day without the dressing.

→ What variations can I try with this recipe?

Feel free to add other fruits like blueberries or sliced apples, or substitute nuts based on your preference!