Name: Strawberry & Blueberry Spinach Salad with Pecans and Feta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-482645H24M30S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and dried; 1/2 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup blueberries; 1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons red onion, thinly sliced (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

This Strawberry & Blueberry Spinach Salad with Pecans and Feta is everything you need in a salad: fresh, vibrant, and full of textures and flavors that pop. It’s that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy that will make you crave it again and again. Imagine the burst of juicy strawberries and blueberries, the nutty crunch of pecans, and the creamy tang of feta, all on a bed of fresh spinach. Toss it all together with a light vinaigrette, and you’ve got a salad that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Trust me, this one will become your go-to salad, whether it’s for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a beautiful centerpiece at your next gathering!

Why You’ll Love Strawberry & Blueberry Spinach Salad with Pecans and Feta

Refreshing and Flavorful: The mix of sweet berries, savory feta, and crunchy pecans makes each bite a delightful adventure. The freshness of the spinach ties everything together.
Packed with Nutrients: This salad is loaded with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats. You’ll get a good dose of fiber and antioxidants from the berries, plus heart-healthy fats from the pecans.

Versatile: Perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, preparing a dinner party, or just want a fresh, light meal, this salad works wonderfully.
Quick and Easy: With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip this salad together in no time. No complicated steps—just easy, feel-good food.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this refreshing and flavorful salad:

Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is the perfect base, full of nutrients and mild enough to let the other ingredients shine.
Strawberries: Sweet and juicy, these berries add a burst of natural sweetness to the salad.
Blueberries: Tart and juicy, they balance the sweetness of the strawberries and add another layer of fruity goodness.

Pecans: Crunchy, nutty pecans give the salad texture and a touch of richness.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings a creamy, salty element that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the fruit.
Balsamic Vinaigrette: A light and tangy dressing that complements the salad perfectly. You can also make your own homemade vinaigrette or use a store-bought version.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s put this colorful, delicious salad together!

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

Start by rinsing the spinach, strawberries, and blueberries. Pat the spinach dry and remove any stems if needed. Slice the strawberries into thin pieces, and set the blueberries aside.

2. Toast the Pecans (Optional):

For an extra pop of flavor, toast the pecans. Simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir occasionally for about 2-3 minutes, or until they’re lightly browned and fragrant. This step is optional, but it really brings out the flavor of the pecans.

3. Assemble the Salad:

In a large bowl, toss together the spinach, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and pecans. Once everything is evenly mixed, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top.

4. Dress the Salad:

Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss the salad gently to coat everything evenly with the dressing. Be sure not to overdress it—just a light drizzle will do!

5. Serve and Enjoy:

This salad is best served fresh, so dish it up right away! It’s light, refreshing, and full of vibrant flavors, making it the perfect accompaniment to any meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 210
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 180mg
Total Carbohydrates: 15g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve Strawberry & Blueberry Spinach Salad with Pecans and Feta

As a Side Dish: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even a burger. It’s light enough to balance out heavier main dishes while still being satisfying on its own.
For a Light Lunch: Add a bit of grilled chicken or even some quinoa for a more substantial meal.
Perfect for Picnics or Potlucks: The vibrant colors and refreshing flavors make this salad a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Top with Extras: Feel free to add extra toppings like sliced avocado, crispy bacon, or even a sprinkle of sunflower seeds to make it even more filling.

Additional Tips

Make-Ahead: You can prep the salad ingredients in advance and keep them separate. Just toss them together and add the dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Dressing Variations: If you’re not a fan of balsamic vinaigrette, try a honey mustard dressing, poppy seed dressing, or even a simple lemon olive oil dressing for a different twist.

Add Protein: To make this salad a complete meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or a hard-boiled egg on top for extra protein.
Go Dairy-Free: If you’re dairy-free, try using a dairy-free feta or omit the cheese altogether for a lighter version.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A1: Yes, you can prep the salad ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting.

Q2: Can I use other berries instead of strawberries and blueberries?
A2: Absolutely! You can use raspberries, blackberries, or even peaches for a twist. Just be sure to choose fruits that are ripe and fresh.

Q3: How do I store leftover salad?
A3: If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The spinach may wilt a bit, but it will still taste great. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days.

Q4: Can I make the dressing at home?
A4: Yes! You can make a simple balsamic vinaigrette by whisking together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey (optional), salt, and pepper.

Q5: Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?
A5: Yes, you can use walnuts, almonds, or even candied pecans if you want a bit of sweetness in the crunch.

Q6: Can I serve this salad with a protein?
A6: Yes, grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp would all pair beautifully with this salad for a more filling meal.

Q7: How do I make the salad more filling?
A7: To make this salad more substantial, add some cooked quinoa, chickpeas, or a hard-boiled egg on top for extra protein and fiber.

Q8: Is this salad gluten-free?
A8: Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free dressing and toppings.

Q9: How long will the dressing last?
A9: If you make the dressing yourself, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Q10: How can I make this salad spicier?
A10: If you like a bit of heat, try adding some sliced jalapeños, a drizzle of sriracha, or even a pinch of chili flakes to the salad.

Conclusion

This Strawberry & Blueberry Spinach Salad with Pecans and Feta is the perfect way to brighten up any meal with its fresh, vibrant flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, a side dish, or serving it at your next gathering, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of sweet berries, creamy feta, and crunchy pecans is just the right mix of textures and flavors, and with the added health benefits, you’ll feel great about digging in. So go ahead, toss it all together, and enjoy a bowl full of fresh, colorful goodness!