If you're looking for a salad that's as vibrant as it is refreshing, this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Maple Almond Dressing is for you. It's the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors, making it a great choice for a summer lunch or a light dinner.
Spinach: The leafy base of this salad, providing a mild flavor and lots of nutrients. Fresh is best to ensure the leaves are crisp and vibrant.
Strawberries: These juicy berries add a natural sweetness and a pop of color. Make sure they're ripe for the best flavor.
Sliced almonds: They bring a satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the sweet and tangy elements of the salad.
Feta cheese: Adds a creamy, slightly salty contrast that balances the sweetness of the strawberries and maple syrup.
Red onion: Provides a sharp, savory bite that enhances the salad's depth of flavor.
Olive oil: A staple in the dressing, it helps blend all the flavors together smoothly.
Maple syrup: Our secret sweetener, it offers a natural sweetness and a hint of rich, earthy flavor.
Balsamic vinegar: Adds a tangy depth that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the strawberries and maple syrup.
Dijon mustard: A small amount adds a subtle kick and helps emulsify the dressing.
Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing and balancing all the flavors in the salad.
This salad is great on its own, but for a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish. A chilled glass of white wine pairs beautifully with its fresh flavors, making it perfect for a summer evening on the patio.
Start by washing and drying the spinach thoroughly, and place it in a large salad bowl. You want it nice and fresh, so make sure to pat it dry to prevent any sogginess. Next, hull and slice the strawberries, and add them to the spinach. Their sweetness will be a delightful contrast to the greens.
Now, thinly slice the red onion. If you're not a fan of a strong onion flavor, you can soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes to mellow them out. Add them to the bowl with the spinach and strawberries.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will form your dressing. Whisk until it's well combined and slightly thickened.
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Toss everything gently to ensure the dressing coats all the components without bruising the delicate spinach leaves.
To finish, top the salad with sliced almonds and crumbled feta cheese. These will add texture and a bit of creaminess. Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or let it chill for about 10 minutes if you prefer the flavors to meld a bit more.
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