Delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Glaze – Fresh & Flavorful Recipe

Fresh, colorful, and bursting with flavor, a Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Glaze is the kind of dish that makes healthy eating feel like a treat. It brings together the sweetness of ripe strawberries, the earthy freshness of spinach, the creamy saltiness of cheese, and the rich tang of balsamic glaze — all in one irresistible bowl.

What makes this salad truly special is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps — just fresh produce, a handful of pantry staples, and about ten minutes. The result? A vibrant, restaurant-quality dish that looks gorgeous and tastes even better.

Ingredients Needed

Below is a quick look at everything you’ll need to create this stunning salad, along with approximate calorie counts per ingredient.

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories (Approx.)
Fresh baby spinach	4 cups (about 120g)	30
Fresh strawberries (sliced)	2 cups (about 250g)	100
Red onion (thinly sliced)	¼ cup	15
Crumbled feta or goat cheese	¼ cup	100
Candied pecans or walnuts	¼ cup	180
Olive oil	2 tbsp	240
Balsamic vinegar	3 tbsp	40
Honey (for glaze)	1 tbsp	60
Salt and black pepper	To taste	0

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the balsamic glaze:
   Pour balsamic vinegar and honey into a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it reduce until thickened and syrupy — about 6–8 minutes. Set aside to cool.
2. Assemble the greens and fruit:
   In a large salad bowl, add the baby spinach leaves. Gently layer in sliced strawberries and red onions.
3. Add the toppings:
   Sprinkle feta (or goat cheese) crumbles and candied pecans over the top. The cheese adds creaminess while the nuts give that perfect crunch.
4. Drizzle and toss:
   Lightly drizzle olive oil over the salad, season with salt and black pepper, and toss gently to combine.
5. Finish with the glaze:
   Drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze over the salad right before serving. The glaze adds a beautiful sheen and a punch of flavor that ties everything together.
6. Serve immediately:
   Enjoy it fresh while the spinach is crisp and the strawberries are juicy.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Swap the greens: Try arugula or mixed baby greens for a peppery twist.
• Make it vegan: Use a vegan cheese alternative or omit cheese altogether. Replace honey with maple syrup in the glaze.
• Boost the protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
• Add grains: Toss in quinoa, farro, or couscous to make it heartier.
• Play with nuts: Use toasted almonds, pistachios, or sunflower seeds instead of pecans.
• Flavor upgrade: Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or mint for a burst of freshness.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~200 kcal
Protein	5g
Carbohydrates	14g
Fiber	4g
Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	3g
Sugar	8g
Vitamin A	110% DV
Vitamin C	120% DV
Iron	8% DV

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect as a side: Serve it with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a balanced and refreshing meal.
• Great for gatherings: This salad adds a pop of color to any picnic, BBQ, or holiday table.
• Make it a meal: Add quinoa, tofu, or roasted chickpeas for extra substance.
• Presentation tip: For a restaurant-style look, plate the salad and drizzle the balsamic glaze in a zigzag pattern right before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make Strawberry Spinach Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most of the salad in advance! Slice the strawberries, mix the glaze, and wash the spinach ahead of time. However, don’t assemble or add the dressing until right before serving — this keeps the spinach crisp and prevents it from getting soggy.

2. What cheese goes best with Strawberry Spinach Salad?

Feta and goat cheese are both perfect choices. Feta gives a salty, crumbly texture, while goat cheese adds a creamy tang that complements the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully. You can also try blue cheese for a bolder flavor.

3. Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze instead of making my own?

Absolutely! A good-quality store-bought balsamic glaze works just as well and saves time. If you prefer a homemade touch, simply simmer balsamic vinegar with a little honey or maple syrup until it thickens — it’s quick and easy!

4. How long does the salad last in the refrigerator?

Once dressed, the salad is best eaten immediately. If you want to store leftovers, keep the ingredients separate — spinach, strawberries, nuts, and dressing — in airtight containers. Properly stored, they’ll last up to 2 days in the fridge.

5. Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! Simply skip the cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative. For the glaze, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. The salad will still be delicious and full of flavor.

Conclusion

A Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Glaze is more than just a pretty dish — it’s a celebration of freshness and flavor. Every bite combines sweet strawberries, crisp spinach, creamy cheese, and that irresistible tang of balsamic reduction. It’s light yet satisfying, elegant yet simple, and truly delightful for any occasion.