Strawberry Spinach Salad With Feta

Name: 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 walnuts, chopped (optional); 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh & Fit Plates

I love bringing this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta to summer gatherings! The combination of sweet strawberries, fresh spinach, and creamy feta cheese creates a delightful explosion of flavors. I'm always surprised by how quickly it comes together. A simple dressing of balsamic vinegar and olive oil elevates the fresh ingredients to another level, making this salad a vibrant centerpiece that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or serves as a light standalone meal. Just be sure to use the freshest strawberries available for the best results!

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:29:36.116Z

When I first created this salad, I wanted something that would stand out on a buffet table. Mixing sweet and savory is something I really enjoy, and strawberries with feta seemed like the perfect pairing. I experimented with different dressings but found that a simple balsamic vinaigrette really lets the ingredients shine.

The key is to slice the strawberries just before serving to keep them at their freshest. I also like to add some nuts for crunch and texture, which makes each bite even more enjoyable. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet strawberries balance perfectly with salty feta cheese
Fresh spinach provides a delightful crunch
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for summer picnics

Choosing the Freshest Ingredients

The quality of the strawberries in this Strawberry Spinach Salad is crucial to achieving the best flavor. Look for berries that are bright red and free from any bruises. They should be firm to the touch and have a sweet aroma, indicating ripeness. Though you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch, they lack the vibrant texture and taste of fresh ones. If you opt for frozen, thaw them gently in the refrigerator prior to use to prevent them from becoming mushy.

When selecting spinach, choose leaves that are dark green and crisp, avoiding any that are yellowing or wilting. Baby spinach is especially tender and sweet, making it an excellent choice for salads. If you're looking for a nutritional boost, consider swapping in kale or arugula for a different flavor profile. If you're using arugula, expect a peppery bite that complements the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.

Perfecting the Vinaigrette

Whisking the balsamic vinaigrette together until it's fully emulsified is key to a balanced flavor throughout the salad. Aim for a glossy consistency which indicates that the olive oil has blended well with the vinegar. Depending on your taste preference, you can adjust the ratio of oil to vinegar; a 3:1 ratio gives more richness, while 1:1 will enhance the tangy notes. For a twist, try adding a teaspoon of honey or a splash of citrus juice to your dressing for added depth.

If you find that your vinaigrette is too acidic, you can mellow it out by incorporating a touch of mustard. Dijon mustard works particularly well—it adds an extra layer of complexity and helps stabilize the vinaigrette. Alternatively, if you're gluten-free or vegan, simply leave it out; the salad will still shine with the original ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for the perfect salad:

Ingredients

4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match the ingredients per your taste!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your salad:

Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Mix the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, and feta cheese. If using, add the chopped walnuts for crunch.

Dress and Serve

Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving, and toss gently to combine. Enjoy your fresh and vibrant dish!

That's it! Your salad is ready to impress.

Pro Tips

For an added twist, consider including avocado or a sprinkle of sunflower seeds for extra nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is incredibly versatile. It makes a fantastic accompaniment to grilled chicken or fish, where the freshness of the salad complements the smoky flavors beautifully. For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled shrimp or tofu to elevate the protein content. If you're hosting, serve the salad on individual plates to create an elegant presentation, or lay it out on a large platter to encourage sharing and mingling at summer gatherings.

For a picnic, pack the dressing separately to maintain the freshness of the greens. This way, the salad won’t wilt before serving, ensuring a crisp experience. If leftovers occur, store the salad in an airtight container but avoid mixing in the vinaigrette to keep the salad vibrant and fresh for a second day. The flavors will meld nicely overnight, but the texture will be best eaten soon after preparation.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the ingredients in this salad! Adding slices of avocado or mango can introduce a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness. For an additional crunch, consider throwing in some diced cucumber or even a sprinkle of sunflower seeds. Each addition not only enhances the flavor but also increases the nutritional value of your dish, making it visually pleasing and packed with health benefits.

If you're looking to cater to dietary preferences, this salad is easily adaptable. Swap the feta for a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit it entirely for a vegan version. Additionally, nuts can be substituted with seeds for those with nut allergies. Just be sure to toast any seeds or nuts you decide to include in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant—this will elevate their flavors beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

It's best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the spinach fresh and prevent it from wilting.

→ Can I use another type of cheese?

Absolutely! Goat cheese or even mozzarella can work well instead of feta.

→ What other fruits can I add?

Try adding blueberries, raspberries, or even peach slices for a delicious twist.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.