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Strawberry Spinach Salad with Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette

A fresh and bright salad combining strawberries, spinach, and a homemade balsamic vinaigrette that's perfect for busy weeknights or as a side dish for company.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

Salad Ingredients
  • 4 cups fresh spinach Choose bright green and unblemished leaves.
  • 2 cups strawberries, sliced Slicing them thin keeps every forkful balanced.
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced Thin slices are kinder to the palate.
  • 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped Use what you have or prefer.
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled Adds a creamy, salty counterpoint.
Dressing Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar The acidic backbone of the dressing.
  • 1/2 cup olive oil Carries flavor and softens the vinegar.
  • 1 teaspoon honey Balances the sharpness of the vinegar.
  • to taste none Salt and pepper Adjust to lift every ingredient’s flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large salad bowl, combine spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, walnuts, and feta cheese.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until well blended.
  3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
  4. Serve immediately as a side dish or light dinner.

Notes

Best eaten within 10-15 minutes of tossing. Store leftovers undressed to prevent wilting.