Fresh Spinach Salad with Strawberries and Goat Cheese

This fresh spinach salad combines vibrant flavors and textures, making it a delightful choice for a light meal or side dish. Featuring 6 cups of fresh spinach, washed and dried, 1 cup of hulled and sliced strawberries, and 1/2 cup of crumbled goat cheese, this salad is both nutritious and visually appealing.

The addition of walnuts adds a nice crunch, while a drizzle of 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette ties all the ingredients together beautifully.

Ingredients for a Refreshing Spinach Salad

This vibrant spinach salad features a delightful combination of fresh ingredients that come together beautifully.

Start with 6 cups of fresh spinach, washed and dried to ensure a crisp texture.

Next, add 1 cup of hulled and sliced strawberries for a burst of sweetness.

For a creamy contrast, include 1/2 cup of crumbled goat cheese, which adds a tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

If you enjoy a bit of crunch, consider incorporating 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts, which are optional but highly recommended.

Finally, drizzle with 1/4 cup of balsamic vinaigrette to tie all the flavors together.

Preparation Steps

Preparing this salad is quick and straightforward, making it an ideal choice for a light meal.

Begin by washing and drying the spinach thoroughly.

Then, hull and slice the strawberries, and crumble the goat cheese into small pieces.

In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, and walnuts if you choose to include them.

Next, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the top and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Season with salt and pepper to taste, if desired, before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is not only visually appealing but also versatile in its serving options.

Divide the salad into individual bowls or plates for a beautiful presentation.

It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great side dish for a summer barbecue.

Alternatively, enjoy it on its own for a light lunch or dinner.

Health Benefits of Spinach and Strawberries

Spinach is packed with nutrients, offering a wealth of vitamins and minerals.

It’s an excellent source of iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C, contributing to overall health and wellness.

Strawberries, on the other hand, are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system.

Together, these ingredients create a nutritious salad that supports a healthy lifestyle.

Creating the Perfect Balsamic Vinaigrette

The balsamic vinaigrette is a key component of this salad, enhancing the flavors of the fresh ingredients.

To make a simple vinaigrette, combine balsamic vinegar with olive oil, a touch of honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

This dressing can be adjusted to suit personal taste, whether you prefer it sweeter or tangier.

Drizzling it over the salad just before serving ensures that the ingredients remain crisp and fresh.

Enjoying Your Spinach Salad

Once prepared, this salad is best enjoyed immediately to savor the freshness of the ingredients.

The combination of textures from the spinach, strawberries, and goat cheese, along with the crunch of walnuts, creates a delightful eating experience.

Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed solo, this spinach salad is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and delicious flavors.

Simple Spinach Salad Recipe

This spinach salad is a refreshing mix of greens and fruits, perfect for warm weather. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people.

Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
• Salt and pepper to taste (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and dry the spinach, hull and slice the strawberries, and crumble the goat cheese.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, add the fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped walnuts if using.
3. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated.
4. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
5. Serve: Divide the salad into individual bowls or plates and serve immediately.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 150kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 12g