This Strawberry Spinach Salad is one you’ll keep coming back to. Bright, juicy strawberries pair with tender baby spinach, tangy feta, crunchy walnuts and thinly sliced red onion, all tossed in a sweet-tangy balsamic vinaigrette. It’s a fast, flavorful side or light main that comes together in about 20 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights, picnics, barbecues, and summer gatherings.
Summer is prime salad season because of the abundance of fresh produce. This strawberry spinach salad highlights in-season berries, but it’s flexible enough to use whatever fruit and greens you have on hand. The combination of sweet fruit and savory cheese is satisfying and refreshing at the same time.
This version is similar to other strawberry salads you may know, but it’s intentionally simple—fewer components and minimal prep so you can enjoy a vibrant salad without fuss. Dress and toss right before serving to keep the spinach crisp and the strawberries bright.
Make it as a side to grilled or roasted mains, or add a protein—grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas—to turn it into a complete meal. The walnuts and dressing can be made ahead, which makes assembly nearly effortless when guests arrive.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
- Fresh strawberries and baby spinach create a bright, sweet-savory base.
- Simple ingredients—spinach, berries, red onion, feta, walnuts and balsamic vinaigrette—make it quick and approachable.
- Walnuts and dressing can be prepared ahead to speed assembly.
- Highly adaptable: swap berries, nuts or cheese to suit tastes and dietary needs.
Recipe ingredients
Only a handful of ingredients are needed for this strawberry feta spinach salad. See the ingredient notes below for easy substitutions and variations.
Ingredient notes
- Spinach: Pre-washed baby spinach saves time and cleans easily. You can swap in mixed greens, arugula, or romaine for a different texture.
- Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries bring the best flavor; however, raspberries, blueberries or blackberries can be used alone or in combination.
- Red onion: Thin slices add a mild bite. Use shallots for a subtler flavor or omit if you prefer less sharpness.
- Feta cheese: Crumbled feta adds tang and creaminess. Replace with goat cheese, fresh mozzarella, or omit for a vegan salad.
- Walnuts: Toasted walnuts lend crunch and depth. Pecans, almonds, sunflower seeds, or pepitas are fine swaps.
- Dressing: A sweet, tangy balsamic vinaigrette pairs beautifully. Use your favorite store-bought dressing if you prefer.
How to make spinach and strawberry salad
This salad is quick to assemble. For best texture and flavor, assemble just before serving so the spinach stays crisp and the berries remain juicy.
Quick method:
- Toast the walnuts at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until golden and fragrant; let cool.
- Hull and slice the strawberries. Thinly slice the red onion if using.
- Toss spinach, strawberries, crumbled feta, red onion and toasted walnuts in a large bowl. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss until lightly coated. Serve immediately.
FAQs
Assemble just before serving to prevent wilting. You can toast the walnuts and prepare the dressing a day or two ahead to save time; store them separately in airtight containers.
Yes—omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Serving suggestions
This strawberry feta spinach salad is versatile and pairs well with many mains. Ideas:
- Serve alongside grilled or roasted meats such as chicken, pork, or steak.
- Top with sliced grilled chicken or salmon for a hearty weeknight dinner.
- Add cooked quinoa or chickpeas for a filling vegetarian option.
- Bring to a barbecue or potluck as a fresh, colorful side.
Recipe notes
- Make-ahead tips: Toast the nuts and whisk the dressing in advance to simplify final assembly.
- Toss the salad with dressing immediately before serving for the best texture.
- Swap berries, nuts or cheeses to suit seasonal produce and personal preferences.
More sweet and savory salad recipes you’ll love:
- Broccoli kale salad with a creamy dressing
- Fig and arugula salad with goat cheese and walnuts
- Kale and apple salad for crisp autumn flavors
- Pear and cranberry salad with a bright vinaigrette
- Persimmon and spinach salad
- Arugula, orange and pomegranate salad
- Spinach salad with apple, cranberries and walnuts
- Stone fruit salad featuring peaches or nectarines
Did you try this recipe? If so, leave a review and share a photo of your salad to show how you served it.
Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe
This strawberry spinach salad is a crave-worthy summer dish packed with sweet and savory flavor. Tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette, it comes together quickly and makes a fresh addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup walnut pieces
- 5 ounces fresh baby spinach
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (omit for vegan)
- 1/3 cup sliced red onion
- Balsamic vinaigrette dressing (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place walnuts on a rimmed baking sheet or in a heatproof skillet and toast 8–10 minutes until fragrant and golden. Let cool.
- Combine spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta, red onion and toasted walnuts in a large bowl.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Toast the walnuts and prepare the dressing in advance to make final assembly fast.
- Nutrition for this salad does not include the dressing unless noted separately.
- For the best texture, dress the salad right before serving.
- Customize by swapping berries, nuts or cheeses to taste.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 131 kcal; Carbohydrates: 10 g; Protein: 5 g; Fat: 9 g; Fiber: 3 g. Nutrition is an estimate and intended as a guideline.