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, sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted; 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean & Simple Meals

I love making this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta because it's not only vibrant and fresh, but it also brings a delightful combination of flavors that brighten up any meal. The sweet strawberries paired with the salty feta create a perfect harmony that is truly irresistible. Whenever I prepare this salad, I find that it's an instant crowd-pleaser. It's great for gatherings, picnics, or even as a light lunch. Plus, it takes just a few minutes to whip up, which makes it perfect for a quick and healthy dish.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:53:36.593Z

When I first discovered the combination of strawberry and spinach, I was amazed at how well they complemented each other. The crispness of the fresh spinach paired with juicy strawberries makes for a refreshing experience. I've experimented with various dressings, but a simple balsamic vinaigrette tends to elevate the flavors perfectly. I also love adding nuts for a bit of crunch.

What really ties this salad together, though, is the feta cheese. Its creaminess adds a wonderful depth of flavor, and I can't help but make this salad on repeat during strawberry season. I encourage everyone to use good quality feta to enhance this dish!

Why You Will Love This Salad
Sweet and savory combination that's incredibly refreshing
Nutty crunch from the toasted almonds
Versatile side or light meal option for any occasion

The Magic of Feta

Feta cheese is a key ingredient in this salad, providing a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the strawberries. When selecting feta, look for a high-quality brand, preferably made from sheep's milk or a mix of sheep and goat's milk for a rich flavor. The crumbliness of feta also adds texture, making each bite exciting. For an added twist, try marinated feta, which can infuse the salad with additional herbs and spices, enhancing its overall pizzazz.

If you're sensitive to the saltiness of feta, consider using a lower-sodium version or even ricotta as a substitute. While it won’t provide the same sharpness, ricotta will add creaminess and balance well with the other flavors in the salad. Just crumble it over the greens and ensure it’s fresh for the best results.

Perfecting the Dressing

Balsamic vinaigrette is not only delicious but also easy to customize. For a creamier dressing, try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a tablespoon of honey to the balsamic vinaigrette. This variation not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pleasant creamy consistency that coats the salad beautifully. If you prefer a tangier taste, consider whisking in some lemon juice or zest for added freshness.

Make sure to dress the salad right before serving. If you dress it too early, the spinach can wilt and lose its crispness. To keep leftovers fresh, store the dressed salad in the refrigerator for no more than a day. If you want to prep in advance, store the salad components separately and combine them just before serving for optimum texture and flavor.

Ingredients for Strawberry Spinach Salad With Feta

Ingredients

4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
2 cups strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps to Prepare Strawberry Spinach Salad With Feta

Prepare the Salad Base

In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach and sliced strawberries. Gently toss them together to mix.

Add Feta and Almonds

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and toasted almonds over the top of the salad.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Toss and Serve

Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added layer of flavor, try marinating the strawberries in a little bit of sugar and balsamic vinegar for about 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.

Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta works wonderfully as a side dish, but it can also stand alone as a light lunch. To turn it into a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for protein. Roasted chickpeas can also be a fantastic plant-based option, lending a satisfying crunch and complementing the flavors harmoniously.

For an extra boost of flavor, toss in thinly sliced red onions or avocado. The creaminess of avocado pairs well with the tangy feta, creating a delightful fusion in every bite. For a touch of sweetness, think about adding a handful of blueberries or mandarin oranges—these fruits will blend beautifully with the existing ingredients and add additional color.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing this salad in advance is easy, especially if you store the components separately. Wash and dry the spinach and strawberries, then keep them in airtight containers in the fridge. Slice strawberries right before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy. The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in a sealed jar; just give it a good shake before drizzling it over your salad.

If you're planning a picnic or gathering, consider packing the layers separately, starting with the spinach at the bottom to prevent sogginess from the strawberries and dressing. This way, when you're ready to serve, simply combine everything in a large bowl and toss, giving you a fresh and vibrant salad even hours after preparation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad base and keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or even a vegan cheese alternative if you prefer.

→ How do I prevent the spinach from wilting?

Always wash and dry the spinach before mixing it with other ingredients and add the dressing just before serving.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas would be great additions for extra protein.