Tangy Strawberry Spinach Salad with Creamy Balsamic Dressing
This vibrant salad combines the fresh, earthy flavors of spinach with the bright sweetness of ripe strawberries, creating a perfect balance of taste and texture. The homemade creamy balsamic vinaigrette brings a tangy depth to the dish, blending the richness of olive oil and the sharpness of Dijon mustard with the tartness of balsamic vinegar. The shaved red onions add a subtle crunch and a hint of sharpness, making every bite a delightful experience. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding crumbled goat cheese, which enhances the salad’s richness and complements the sweet strawberries beautifully. This salad is perfect for a light meal, a picnic, or as an elegant accompaniment to a dinner party.
6
Servings
75
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
balsamic vinegar
1 ounce
Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon
olive oil
3 ounces
ripe strawberries
1 pint (stemmed & quartered)
fresh spinach
16 ounces
red onion
1/4 cup (shaved)
kosher salt
to taste
freshly ground black pepper
to taste
goat cheese
optional for topping (crumbled)
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing the balsamic vinaigrette. In a medium bowl or a jar, combine the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2
Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the mixture is fully emulsified and creamy, or shake jar vigorously until well combined.
3
Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Set aside.
4
In a large mixing bowl, add the quartered strawberries, shaved red onion, and fresh spinach. Gently toss the ingredients together to combine.
5
Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
6
If desired, top each serving with crumbled goat cheese for an added layer of flavor. Enjoy your refreshing salad!
Nutrition Information
6.7g
Fat
5g
Carbs
0.8g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Tangy Strawberry Spinach Salad?
This is a vibrant salad combining fresh spinach, ripe strawberries, and shaved red onions with a homemade creamy balsamic dressing.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving of this salad contains approximately 75 calories.
Is this salad recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains only vegetables, fruits, and optional goat cheese.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 6 servings.
What ingredients are needed for the dressing?
The dressing requires balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Can I add cheese to this salad?
Yes, crumbled goat cheese is an excellent optional addition that enhances the richness and complements the sweet strawberries.
How do I prepare the strawberries?
The strawberries should be stemmed and quartered before being added to the salad.
What is the best way to mix the dressing?
You can whisk the ingredients in a bowl or put them in a jar and shake vigorously until the mixture is fully emulsified and creamy.
How much fat is in this salad?
There are 6.7 grams of fat per serving.
What are the carbohydrate and protein counts?
Each serving contains 5 grams of carbohydrates and 0.8 grams of protein.
When should I add the dressing to the salad?
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving to keep the spinach fresh and crisp.
Can I use this recipe for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing and the salad ingredients separately, but keep them apart until you are ready to eat to avoid wilting.
Is this salad suitable for a picnic?
Absolutely, it is a great choice for picnics; just store the dressing in a separate container until serving.
What type of spinach should I use?
Fresh spinach is recommended. You can use baby spinach for a more tender texture.
How should the red onion be prepared?
The red onion should be shaved very thinly to provide a subtle crunch without being overpowering.
What does Dijon mustard add to the dressing?
Dijon mustard adds a sharp depth of flavor and helps emulsify the oil and vinegar into a creamy consistency.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, simply omit the optional goat cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative to make it vegan.
What occasion is this salad best for?
It is perfect for light meals, summer picnics, or as an elegant accompaniment for dinner parties.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
While not in the original recipe, toasted pecans or walnuts would be a great addition for extra crunch.
What can I use if I don't have balsamic vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can work, though they will change the flavor profile and color of the dressing.
Is the balsamic vinaigrette healthy?
Yes, it uses olive oil and balsamic vinegar, which are considered healthy fats and acids compared to store-bought creamy dressings.
Can I substitute the strawberries with other fruit?
Yes, raspberries or blueberries would also pair beautifully with spinach and balsamic dressing.
How much olive oil is in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 ounces of olive oil for the dressing.
Do I need to cook anything for this salad?
No cooking is required; this is a raw, fresh salad recipe.
What if my dressing is too tangy?
You can add a tiny bit of honey or maple syrup to the dressing to balance the acidity of the vinegar.
Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Yes, adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would turn this into a substantial main dish.
How long does the dressing last?
The homemade balsamic dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Why is it called a 'creamy' balsamic dressing?
The combination of Dijon mustard and olive oil, when whisked or shaken vigorously, creates a creamy, thick emulsion without dairy.
Is this salad low in sodium?
Since the salt is 'to taste,' you can control the sodium level easily according to your dietary needs.
What is the primary flavor profile of this dish?
The dish features a balance of earthy spinach, sweet strawberries, and a tangy, savory dressing.