Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese is a fresh and colorful mix that feels as light as a spring day. The sweet strawberries and creamy goat cheese come together on…
Tip: save now, cook later.Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese is a fresh and colorful mix that feels as light as a spring day. The sweet strawberries and creamy goat cheese come together on a bed of tender spinach leaves for a salad that’s both juicy and tangy. Every bite has a nice balance of flavors and textures, from the crunchy nuts often tossed in to the crisp greens.
I really love making this salad when strawberries are in season because it tastes so bright and fresh. The goat cheese adds a lovely creamy touch that makes the salad feel a little special without being heavy. I like to add a simple vinaigrette that brings everything together without overpowering the natural flavors of the fruit and cheese.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this salad is as a quick lunch or alongside grilled chicken for a light dinner. It’s also great to bring to gatherings because it looks beautiful and feels like a nice, healthy treat. Every time I make it, friends ask for the recipe, and I’m always happy to share this easy go-to salad that feels fancy but is really simple to throw together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Baby Spinach: Spinach is the salad’s mild, tender green. If you prefer something crunchier, try baby kale or mixed spring greens instead. Just make sure the leaves are fresh and dry for best texture.
Strawberries: Sweet, ripe strawberries bring juicy brightness. If strawberries aren’t in season, frozen berries thawed gently or fresh sliced apples can work as alternatives.
Goat Cheese: Goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the fruit. If you don’t have goat cheese, feta or ricotta salata are great swaps with similar creaminess.
Toasted Nuts: Pecans or walnuts add crunch and nuttiness. Feel free to try sliced almonds, pine nuts, or leave out nuts if you have allergies or prefer it nut-free.
Dressing Ingredients: Olive oil and balsamic vinegar are a classic combo here. Honey or maple syrup gently sweeten the dressing. Use apple cider vinegar or lemon juice if you want a different tang.
How Can I Make the Dressing Smooth and Well Blended?
Getting a smooth, well-mixed dressing helps coat the salad beautifully. Here’s how I do it:
- Use a small bowl or jar to mix your dressing ingredients.
- Whisk or shake vigorously until the oil and vinegar combine into a smooth emulsion.
- Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness to balance flavors.
- Drizzle slowly over salad and toss gently to avoid bruising fragile strawberries and spinach.
If you want, prepare the dressing just before serving to keep flavors fresh and vibrant.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large salad bowl – big enough to toss spinach and strawberries without crushing them.
- Whisk or fork – helps you mix the dressing smoothly and evenly.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – for slicing the strawberries and onions cleanly.
- Measuring spoons – to get the right balance of oil, vinegar, and honey for the dressing.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost that turns this into a main dish.
- Switch goat cheese to feta or blue cheese for a stronger, tangier flavor punch.
- Include sliced avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
- Try fresh basil or mint leaves for a fresh herbal twist that pairs well with strawberries.
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach leaves, washed and dried
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional for crunch)
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh salad takes about 10 to 15 minutes to prepare, including washing and slicing the strawberries and spinach, making the dressing, and assembling everything. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Salad:
Place the fresh baby spinach leaves in a large salad bowl. Add the sliced strawberries and thinly sliced red onion if you’re using it.
3. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Drizzle the dressing over the spinach and strawberries. Gently toss the salad to coat all the ingredients evenly without bruising the delicate fruit or spinach leaves.
4. Add Toppings and Serve:
Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese and toasted nuts over the top of the salad. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and best texture. Enjoy this light and tasty salad that’s perfect for spring and summer!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries in This Salad?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to avoid watering down the salad. Fresh strawberries are best for crisp texture and bright flavor.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep the dressing separate if possible to prevent the spinach from wilting.
Can I Substitute the Goat Cheese?
Absolutely! Feta or ricotta salata are great alternatives if you want a similar creamy, tangy flavor. For a milder option, try cream cheese or even shaved mozzarella.
How Can I Add Protein to This Salad?
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu on top to make it a complete meal. Hard-boiled eggs or chickpeas also work well for extra protein without overpowering the fresh flavors.
