Description
This is not your average sad desk salad. This is a bright, beautiful, flavor-loaded bowl of fresh baby spinach, juicy strawberries, crunchy candied pecans, tangy goat cheese, and a zippy homemade balsamic vinaigrette that takes literal minutes to make. It’s the perfect sweet-savory combo that makes you feel like you’re eating fancy café food — minus the overpriced menu. Whether you’re looking for a quick side, a light lunch, or a way to use up that pint of berries before they go fuzzy, this salad is your answer.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
– 6 cups baby spinach (or mixed greens if you’re wild)
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
– 1/3 cup candied pecans (or regular toasted pecans)
– Optional: sliced avocado, grilled chicken, or cooked quinoa for a full meal
For the Balsamic Dressing:
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp honey (or maple syrup)
– Salt + black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon, honey, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Taste and tweak — more vinegar if you like it tangier, more honey if you’re feeling sweet.
Step 2: Toss the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, and half the goat cheese and pecans. Drizzle with the dressing and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
Step 3: Finish Like a Pro
Top with the remaining goat cheese and pecans for a little visual flair. Add avocado or grilled chicken if using. Serve immediately and accept the compliments with grace.
Notes
– Perfect alongside grilled salmon, chicken, or even a summery quiche
– Want to bulk it up? Add farro, couscous, or rotisserie chicken
– Makes a great BBQ side dish or potluck stunner — just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: ~220 kcal per serving
- Fat: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~12g
- Protein: ~5g