Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese is a fresh and tasty mix that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors. Crisp baby spinach leaves meet juicy strawberries, crumbled goat cheese,…
Tip: save now, cook later.Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese is a fresh and tasty mix that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors. Crisp baby spinach leaves meet juicy strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for a little crunch. The flavors come together in such a simple way, making it a light and refreshing dish that’s full of color.
I love making this salad when strawberries are in season because their sweetness really shines against the peppery spinach and the tangy, creamy goat cheese. Whenever I bring it to a gathering, it’s always the first salad to disappear! One helpful tip I have is to toss the salad just before serving so the spinach stays nice and fresh without getting soggy.
This salad works great as a side for grilled chicken or fish, but I also enjoy it on its own as a quick lunch when I want something healthy but satisfying. It’s an easy recipe that feels fancy without being complicated, and making it always reminds me of sunny spring afternoons shared with friends and family.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Baby spinach is tender and mild, making it perfect here. If you want a bit more bite, try baby kale or mixed salad greens instead.
Strawberries: Fresh and ripe strawberries bring juicy sweetness. If strawberries are out of season, blueberries or sliced apples work well too.
Goat Cheese: The tangy creaminess of goat cheese is key. For a milder option, feta cheese or ricotta salata also taste great in this salad.
Nuts: Toasted pine nuts add crunch and richness. You can swap these for toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans depending on your preference.
How Do I Make a Balanced Dressing for This Salad?
The dressing needs to be light but flavorful to complement the fresh ingredients. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey (or maple syrup) for sweetness and tang.
- Slowly add olive oil while whisking to create a smooth vinaigrette.
- Season with salt and pepper to enhance all flavors.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving to keep spinach crisp.
My tip: taste the dressing before pouring to adjust sweetness or acidity to your liking. This simple step makes a big difference!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large salad bowl – perfect for tossing all the ingredients without spills.
- Sharp knife – helps you slice strawberries cleanly and quickly.
- Cutting board – provides a sturdy surface for chopping fruits and nuts.
- Small bowl or jar – for whisking and mixing the dressing easily.
- Whisk or fork – to blend the dressing ingredients into a smooth vinaigrette.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost that turns this salad into a full meal.
- Swap goat cheese for feta or blue cheese if you prefer a sharper or creamier taste.
- Try adding avocado slices for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
- Include chopped fresh herbs like basil or mint for a bright, fresh flavor twist.
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach leaves, washed and dried
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds (optional for crunch)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare from start to finish. It’s quick to wash and slice the strawberries, crumble the cheese, and whisk together the dressing. Perfect when you want a fresh and healthy dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Spinach and Strawberries:
In a large salad bowl, place the clean baby spinach leaves. Add the hulled and sliced strawberries on top.
2. Add Goat Cheese and Nuts:
Evenly sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the spinach and strawberries. If you want extra crunch, add the toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds now.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Dress and Toss the Salad:
Just before serving, drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad. Gently toss everything together so the flavors mix but the spinach stays fresh and crisp.
5. Serve:
Enjoy this colorful salad as a bright side dish or add grilled chicken to make it a light main meal!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries in This Salad?
It’s best to use fresh strawberries for this salad, as frozen berries can become mushy and watery when thawed. If you only have frozen, thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding to the salad.
How Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To keep the spinach from wilting, store the dressing separately and toss the salad just before serving again.
What Can I Substitute for Goat Cheese?
If you don’t have goat cheese, feta cheese or ricotta salata make great alternatives with a similar creamy and tangy flavor.
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it in a sealed container. Bring it to room temperature and whisk before using.