Appetizers & Starters > Salads & Cold Starters > Leafy Salads > Spinach and Strawberry Salad

Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Glaze

A refreshing and vibrant salad combining the earthy flavors of spinach with the sweetness of strawberries, all tossed in a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect as a light lunch or a delightful appetizer.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
5 minutes (for balsamic glaze)
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 6 oz Fresh Spinach
  • 1 pint Fresh Strawberries
  • 1/4 Red Onion
  • 4 oz Goat Cheese
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Honey
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
  • 1/4 cup Almonds (sliced, optional)

Prepare the Strawberries and Spinach

Begin by thoroughly washing the spinach and strawberries. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Hull the strawberries and slice them into halves or quarters, depending on their size.

Prepare the Red Onion

Thinly slice the red onion. If the raw onion flavor is too strong for your liking, you can soak the sliced red onion in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow its bite.

Make the Balsamic Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly. Be careful not to burn it. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, and red onion. Crumble the goat cheese over the top. Drizzle with olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss everything together.

Serve

Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving. Sprinkle with sliced almonds, if using. Serve immediately and enjoy!

FAQ

  • Can I make this salad ahead of time?

    It's best to assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting. You can prepare the balsamic glaze and slice the strawberries and red onion in advance.
  • What can I substitute for goat cheese?

    Feta cheese or crumbled blue cheese would be good substitutes for goat cheese. You can also use a vegan cheese alternative.
  • Can I add other fruits to this salad?

    Yes, you can add other berries like blueberries or raspberries. Sliced apples or pears would also be delicious additions.
  • How do I store leftover balsamic glaze?

    Store leftover balsamic glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It may thicken as it cools, so you might need to let it come to room temperature before using.