Ingredients
— The Salad —
10 oz fresh baby spinach, washed and dried
1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup pecan halves or roughly chopped pecans
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional, but recommended)
— Balsamic Vinaigrette —
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
1. **Toast the Pecans:** Place the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and slightly darkened. Remove from the pan immediately and set aside to cool.
2. **Make the Vinaigrette:** In a small mason jar or bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Seal and shake vigorously (or whisk well) until the dressing is completely smooth and emulsified.
3. **Assemble the Base:** In a large serving bowl or on a platter, add the fresh baby spinach. Scatter the sliced strawberries and thinly sliced red onion evenly over the top.
4. **Add Toppings:** Sprinkle the cooled, toasted pecans and crumbled feta (or goat cheese) over the salad.
5. **Dress and Serve:** Just before serving, give the vinaigrette another quick shake and drizzle it over the salad. Gently toss to combine, being careful not to bruise the spinach. Serve immediately.
Notes
Candied Pecan Option: For an extra touch of sweetness, you can swap the plain toasted pecans for candied or glazed pecans.
Make Ahead Instructions: You can prepare the dressing and prep all the salad ingredients up to 2 days in advance. Store the dressing, spinach, strawberries, and pecans in separate airtight containers in the fridge (keep pecans at room temp). Assemble and toss right before serving.
Make it a Meal: Top this salad with sliced grilled chicken breast, baked salmon, or even quinoa to turn it into a protein-packed main course.
Dairy-Free/Vegan: Simply omit the cheese (or use a vegan alternative) and ensure you use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 5
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: American