Strawberry Basil Spinach Salad
Here’s a full recipe for a refreshing and flavorful Strawberry Basil Spinach Salad, along with a detailed Q&A to help you customize it for any occasion — from light lunches to elegant dinners or summer BBQs.
🍓🌿 Strawberry Basil Spinach Salad
🥗 Why You’ll Love It:
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Fresh, vibrant, and naturally sweet
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Quick (ready in 10 minutes)
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Great for spring and summer
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Beautiful presentation with minimal effort
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Salad:
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6 cups baby spinach, washed and dried
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1½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
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½ cup fresh basil leaves, whole or chiffonade (thinly sliced)
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¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
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¼ cup candied or toasted pecans (or walnuts, almonds)
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Optional: ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Balsamic Vinaigrette:
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3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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1½ tbsp balsamic vinegar
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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1 tsp honey or maple syrup
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Salt & black pepper to taste
🍽️ Instructions:
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Make the vinaigrette:
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In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
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Assemble the salad:
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In a large salad bowl or on a platter, layer the spinach, strawberries, and basil.
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Add toppings:
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Sprinkle cheese, nuts, and red onion (if using) evenly over the salad.
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Dress & serve:
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Drizzle with the balsamic vinaigrette just before serving. Toss gently or serve dressing on the side.
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✅ Optional Add-Ins:
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Grilled chicken or shrimp (for a protein boost)
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Avocado slices
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Quinoa or farro for a heartier version
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Poppy seeds in the dressing
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Cucumber or arugula for a twist
❓ Q&A: Strawberry Basil Spinach Salad
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, but keep the dressing and toppings separate until just before serving to prevent sogginess. Assemble base ingredients a few hours ahead and refrigerate.
Q: What can I use instead of feta?
A:
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Goat cheese (tangy and creamy)
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Shaved Parmesan (for a saltier bite)
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Vegan feta or omit the cheese for dairy-free
Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
A: Fresh basil is essential for flavor and texture in this salad. Dried basil won’t offer the same brightness or visual appeal.
Q: What other fruit works well?
A: Try:
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Blueberries
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Raspberries
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Peaches
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Pear slices
Just keep the same sweet-savory balance.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes! Use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing and omit or replace the cheese with a plant-based alternative.
Q: Can I use store-bought dressing?
A: Sure, though homemade balsamic vinaigrette is quick and tastier. A quality bottled balsamic or raspberry vinaigrette works in a pinch.
Q: How long does the dressing last?
A: Homemade vinaigrette lasts up to 1 week in the fridge. Shake or stir well before using as it may separate.
Q: What proteins go well with this salad?
A:
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Grilled or shredded chicken
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Baked salmon
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Grilled tofu or tempeh
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Hard-boiled eggs
Q: What to serve this salad with?
A:
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Grilled meats or seafood
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Crusty bread or a baguette
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Chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Rosé
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As a side for brunch, picnic, or BBQ spreads..
