Leafy Strawberry Delight

πŸ•’ Prep: 15 min
πŸ”₯ Cook:
🍽 Serves: 4
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Leafy Strawberry Delight is a refreshing salad that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the earthiness of spinach. It's perfect for a summer lunch or as a vibrant side dish at your next gathering. This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor β€” so let's dive in!

Ingredients for Leafy Strawberry Delight

The star of our salad is fresh spinach leaves, offering a mild, earthy base that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Strawberries introduce a burst of sweetness and vibrant color. For a savory contrast, we add feta cheese, which is creamy and tangy. Walnuts bring a satisfying crunch and a hint of nuttiness. To add a little zing, there's thinly sliced red onion. Finally, a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together with its sweet and tangy notes.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra burst of flavor, try toasting the walnuts in a dry pan for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
  • If you’re not a fan of raw onions, soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes to mellow their sharpness.
  • Adjust the amount of balsamic vinaigrette to your taste β€” a little goes a long way.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a perfect lunch or light dinner. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty grain like quinoa or farro. It also works well as a side dish at a picnic or barbecue, adding a fresh and fruity element to the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Goat cheese or blue cheese can be great alternatives if you're looking for a different flavor profile.
How can I make this salad vegan?
Simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
What if I don’t have balsamic vinaigrette?
You can make a quick dressing by mixing balsamic vinegar with olive oil, salt, and a bit of honey or maple syrup.

Leafy Strawberry Delight Recipe Walkthrough

Start by washing and drying your spinach leaves. Place them into a large salad bowl β€” they form the bedrock of your salad. Next, hull and slice the strawberries. Add these to the bowl, creating a colorful contrast against the green spinach. Now, take your red onion and slice it thinly. A few slices go a long way, so scatter them lightly over the salad.

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top. Don't be shy; the feta adds a creamy, tangy taste that complements the strawberries perfectly. Next, toss in the chopped walnuts for a bit of crunch and texture. Finally, drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette. Use a gentle hand to mix everything together, ensuring the dressing coats each ingredient without wilting the spinach.

Serve immediately if you like your salads crisp or let it chill in the fridge for up to two hours if you prefer a more marinated flavor. Enjoy the delightful mix of flavors and textures!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Combines sweet, savory, and nutty flavors in every bite.
  • Uses fresh, seasonal ingredients for maximum taste.
  • Provides a delightful mix of textures from soft spinach to crunchy walnuts.
  • It's a healthy option that doesn't compromise on flavor.

Ingredients

4 cups fresh spinach leaves
1 pint strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
3 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, and red onion.
2. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts over the top.
3. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

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