Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Feta – Healthy Dinner Recipes

Okay, picture this: it’s a sunny spring afternoon, and your kitchen smells like fresh strawberries and a hint of tangy feta. That’s exactly how this salad makes me feel—like sunshine on a plate! I first tossed together this combo when I was hunting for a dinner that was both light *and* satisfying, and it instantly became a staple. The crispness of baby spinach paired with juicy strawberries, plus that creamy, salty feta crumble? Seriously, it’s a little burst of flavor fireworks in every bite. And the best part? You don’t have to be a kitchen pro to pull it off. Ready to wow your taste buds with something fresh and easy? Let’s dive in!

Quick Facts

• Yield: Serves 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

• 6 cups baby spinach, washed and dried
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional, for a little zing)
• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans (adds crunch!)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How I Make It

Step 1:

Start by gently washing your baby spinach and patting it dry with a clean kitchen towel or using a salad spinner. You want the leaves dry so the dressing clings nicely without watering down your salad.

Step 2:

Hull and slice the fresh strawberries into bite-sized pieces. I love when they’re juicy but not mushy—so choose berries that are firm to the touch but ripe.

Step 3:

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard until the dressing emulsifies into a silky texture. Taste and add salt and pepper to balance the flavors—this little step really brightens everything!

Step 4:

In a large salad bowl, toss together the spinach, strawberries, and thinly sliced red onion if using. The onion adds a gentle bite that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness.

Step 5:

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently—don’t overmix or the strawberries might get bruised!

Step 6:

Top with crumbled feta cheese and toasted nuts for that signature creamy and crunchy combo. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Variations & Tips

• Swap spinach for arugula if you want a peppery twist.
• Add grilled chicken or shrimp to turn this into a heartier dinner salad.
• Use pecans instead of walnuts for a slightly sweeter crunch.
• For a vegan option, substitute feta with crumbled tofu or omit it entirely.
• If strawberries aren’t in season, substitute with fresh raspberries or blueberries.
• Toast nuts in a dry skillet for 3–4 minutes until fragrant—this step really amps up the flavor.

How I Like to Serve It

This salad is perfect for a light spring or summer dinner, especially with a warm crusty bread on the side. It’s also a great way to impress guests at a picnic or backyard BBQ. Pair with a chilled white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing finish!

Notes

• Store leftover salad components separately—especially dressing—to keep greens crisp.
• If prepping in advance, add the nuts and feta just before serving to avoid sogginess.

Closing: This spinach and strawberry salad always feels like a little celebration on a plate—simple, fresh, and downright delicious every single time.