What ingredients make the Spinach Basil Strawberry Summer Salad unique?

This salad stands out due to the combination of fresh baby spinach, aromatic fresh basil leaves, sweet strawberries, crunchy walnuts, tangy feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onions. The blend of these ingredients creates a balance of flavors and textures that is both refreshing and satisfying, making it different from typical spinach and strawberry salad recipes.

How do I make the dressing for the Spinach Basil Strawberry Summer Salad?

The dressing is simple but flavorful, made with just four ingredients: strawberry or boysenberry preserves, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these together until smooth. If the preserves are too thick, you can add a little balsamic vinegar and pulse briefly to achieve the right consistency. This sweet and tangy dressing complements the salad perfectly.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time, and how should I store it?

You can prepare the salad ingredients in advance by washing and chopping the spinach, basil, and strawberries separately and storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate and toss it with the salad just before serving to prevent wilting and maintain crispness.

Is this salad suitable for people with nut allergies?

The salad traditionally includes walnuts for added crunch and flavor, but you can easily omit them or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds to keep the texture. This adjustment makes the salad safe for those with nut allergies without compromising taste.

What are some good side dishes or meals to pair with the Spinach Basil Strawberry Summer Salad?

This light and fresh salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or vegetarian dishes like quinoa or couscous. It also works as a starter or a side for summer barbecues and picnics, offering a sweet and tangy contrast to savory main courses.

Spinach Basil Strawberry Summer Salad Recipe With Fresh Flavors

Ingredients

– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar gives a tangy base that’s full of flavor.

– 2 tablespoons fruit preserves (boysenberry or strawberry) adds a sweet touch to balance the tang.

– 1 teaspoon hot sauce brings a gentle kick that wakes up the taste buds.

– 1/3 cup olive oil helps everything mix smoothly for a rich dressing.

– 6 cups chopped baby spinach leaves forms a fresh, nutrient-packed base.

– 1 cup fresh basil chiffonade provides that aromatic herbal note I can’t get enough of.

– 1 small red onion, halved and thinly sliced adds a sharp, colorful crunch.

– 1/2 cup roughly chopped walnuts offers extra texture and a nutty flavor.

– 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries stirred in last for juicy sweetness and that pop of red.

– Salt and pepper to taste seasons everything perfectly.

– 4 ounces feta cheese sprinkled on top for a creamy finish just before serving.

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Instructions

1-First, whisk together the dressing in a small bowl: combine 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons fruit preserves, 1 teaspoon hot sauce, and 1/3 cup olive oil until it’s all mixed well. This step creates that irresistible tangy-sweet blend that ties the whole salad together. Set it aside while you prep the rest it’s that easy!

2-Next, in a large bowl, mix 6 cups chopped baby spinach leaves, 1 cup fresh basil chiffonade, 1 small red onion halved and thinly sliced, and 1/2 cup roughly chopped walnuts. Toss them gently to combine without bruising the greens. Then, drizzle the dressing over the mix and give it a light stir to coat everything evenly. Finally, fold in 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries and season with salt and pepper to taste before topping with 4 ounces of feta cheese.

Last Step:

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Notes

🍓 Use fresh, ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness and flavor.
🥗 Lightly toss the salad to avoid bruising delicate berries.
🌰 Toast walnuts lightly to enhance their crunch and nutty flavor.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Tossing
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving