Strawberry Spinach Salad

Feast your eyes on this stunning Strawberry Spinach Salad! With vibrant colors and a delightful mix of flavors, this salad is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or even as a light meal. The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy Gorgonzola, and crunchy walnuts creates a satisfying dish that everyone will love. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad can be made in just 10 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those with a busy schedule.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of strawberries, Gorgonzola, and mint provides a burst of flavor that is refreshing and satisfying.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this salad works well for picnics, barbecues, or casual dinners.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats from nuts and greens, this salad offers both taste and nutrition.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: Its vibrant colors make this salad a beautiful addition to any table setting.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your Strawberry Spinach Salad easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Salad serving utensils

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing ingredients without spilling.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when slicing strawberries and chopping mint.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertop while providing a stable surface for cutting.
• Salad serving utensils: Makes it easy to serve the salad while keeping the layers intact.

Ingredients

Feast your eyes on this stunning Strawberry Salad with Gorgonzola, Walnuts, and Mint! It’s a party in your mouth! The perfect summer salad that will keep you coming back again and again.

For the Salad

• 5 ounces spring mix (I like the 50/50 mix with half spring mix and half spinach)
• 1 pint strawberries (washed, hulled, sliced)
• 1 cup walnut halves
• 3 ounces creamy Gorgonzola (look for the really creamy kind)
• ½ cup mint (chiffonade)

For the Dressing

• ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper (freshly ground)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Greens

Start by placing the spring mix in a large bowl. This forms the base of your salad.

Step 2: Add Strawberries and Walnuts

Top the greens with sliced strawberries and walnut halves. Ensure everything is evenly distributed for balanced flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Finish with Cheese and Mint

Sprinkle creamy Gorgonzola over the top along with chiffonaded mint. These ingredients add richness and freshness that elevate this simple salad.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Strawberry Spinach Salad!

How to Serve Strawberry Spinach Salad

Strawberry Spinach Salad is not just delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate this delightful salad.

As a Light Lunch

• Serve chilled with a slice of whole grain bread for a refreshing midday meal.
• Pair it with grilled chicken or tofu for added protein.

At Picnics and Potlucks

• Present in a large bowl for easy sharing at gatherings.
• Individual mason jars make for cute and portable servings.

Accompanying Grilled Dishes

• Complement grilled salmon or chicken with this salad’s fresh flavors.
• The sweetness of strawberries balances well with smoky meats.

On Special Occasions

• Use decorative plates and add edible flowers for an elegant touch at dinner parties.
• Drizzle balsamic reduction over the top for an upscale presentation.

How to Perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad

Creating the best Strawberry Spinach Salad requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your salad shines.

• Choose ripe strawberries: Look for bright red berries that are firm and fragrant for the best flavor.
• Use fresh greens: Always opt for fresh, crisp spring mix or spinach to enhance texture.
• Make your dressing ahead: Prepare balsamic vinaigrette in advance to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
• Add nuts last: Sprinkle walnuts just before serving to maintain their crunchiness.
• Experiment with cheese: Try feta or goat cheese for a different taste experience alongside Gorgonzola.
• Garnish creatively: Add sliced avocado or oranges for extra color and flavor contrast.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Spinach Salad

This vibrant salad pairs well with many side dishes, enhancing your dining experience. Consider these options when planning your meal.

1. Grilled Chicken Breast: Marinated and grilled chicken adds protein while complementing the salad’s freshness.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light, nutty quinoa dish can provide an excellent texture contrast.
3. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks offer a delicious chewy element alongside the salad.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring warmth and depth of flavor.
5. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes on skewers make a lovely appetizer option.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and spices create an exciting visual feast and flavor combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Strawberry Spinach Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using stale ingredients: Always opt for fresh strawberries and greens. Stale or wilting vegetables can ruin the salad’s flavor and texture.
• Overdressing the salad: A common error is using too much dressing. Start with a small amount and add more if needed, allowing the flavors of the strawberries and Gorgonzola to shine.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t forget to season your salad. A pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper enhances all the flavors.
• Skipping the mint chiffonade: Adding mint is crucial for freshness. Chiffonade it properly to release its oils without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Not balancing textures: Ensure a mix of soft (strawberries, Gorgonzola) and crunchy (walnuts) components for a delightful eating experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• item Consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
• item Keep dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Strawberry Spinach Salad

• item Freezing is not recommended due to the texture change in spinach and strawberries.
• item If you must, freeze only the walnuts separately for future use.

Reheating Strawberry Spinach Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salad in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring gently until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Strawberry Spinach Salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead but wait to dress it until just before serving. This keeps everything fresh.

What other ingredients can I add to Strawberry Spinach Salad?

Feel free to customize! Add grilled chicken, avocado, or feta cheese for added flavor and nutrients.

How do I store leftover Strawberry Spinach Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days without dressing.

Is Strawberry Spinach Salad healthy?

Yes! It’s packed with vitamins from spinach and antioxidants from strawberries, making it a nutritious choice.

Can I use other nuts in my Strawberry Spinach Salad?

Absolutely! Almonds or pecans work well as substitutes for walnuts, giving you different flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is not just vibrant; it’s also versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences. The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy Gorgonzola, and crunchy walnuts creates a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try today!

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Strawberry Spinach Salad

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 42 minute
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the refreshing delight of Strawberry Spinach Salad, a perfect blend of sweet strawberries, creamy Gorgonzola, and crunchy walnuts. This vibrant dish is not only visually appealing but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for summer gatherings, picnics, or light meals. Topped with fresh mint and drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette, this salad bursts with flavor and nutrition. Whether served as a side or a satisfying main course, it’s bound to impress your family and friends.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5 ounces spring mix (50/50 spring mix and spinach)
• 1 pint strawberries (washed, hulled, sliced)
• 1 cup walnut halves
• 3 ounces creamy Gorgonzola
• ½ cup chiffonaded mint
• ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the spring mix to form the base.
2. Layer sliced strawberries and walnut halves evenly over the greens.
3. Sprinkle creamy Gorgonzola and chiffonaded mint on top.
4. Prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the salad just before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 21g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: For an added crunch, sprinkle nuts just before serving. Customize with additional proteins like grilled chicken or tofu for a heartier meal. Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for varied flavors.