Indulging in a vibrant and flavorful Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze is like taking a refreshing bite of summer. This delightful salad combines the sweetness of fresh berries with the earthiness of baby spinach, crunchy pecans, and tangy feta cheese. It doesn’t just look good — it tastes wonderful too! This salad is the perfect side dish for any barbecue or picnic, and it is simple enough to whip up on a weeknight for a healthy dinner. Each forkful bursts with flavor and texture, leaving your taste buds dancing and your stomach satisfied.
The appeal of the Berry Spinach Salad lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity. It’s made from a handful of fresh ingredients, making it an ideal choice for those who value both health and flavor. Plus, it’s the ideal choice for the summer months when berries are at their peak. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a nutritious meal on your own, this salad can be your go-to. Let’s dive into the details of what makes this salad so special and how you can recreate it in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Berry Spinach Salad
- Colorful and Inviting: The array of colors from the berries and spinach makes this salad visually appealing.
- Nutritious: Packed with antioxidants from the berries and essential vitamins from spinach, it’s a health powerhouse.
- Crunch Factor: The toasted pecans add a satisfying crunch that complements the soft berries and cheese.
- Quick and Easy: The salad is incredibly simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: It serves well as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course, depending on your needs.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Preparing your kitchen before making the Berry Spinach Salad is crucial to ensure everything goes smoothly. Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients, so you won’t miss anything during the process. You’ll need a large mixing bowl for the salad and a smaller bowl for making the dressing. A dry skillet or frying pan for toasting your pecans will enhance their flavor and add the desired crunch.
Ensure your spinach is fresh and washed thoroughly before using. As for the berries, a brief rinse will bring out their vibrant flavors. If you’re using larger strawberries, slice them into smaller pieces for easier mixing. Keep utensils like measuring spoons, a whisk for the dressing, and salad tongs handy for effortless serving. Following these preparation steps not only saves time but also creates a delightful cooking experience!
Ingredients
- 6 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, sliced strawberries)
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Salad Base
Begin by adding the fresh baby spinach to a large mixing bowl. The spinach serves as the refreshing base for the entire salad. Rinse the spinach thoroughly to rid it of any dirt or pesticides, then drain it well. Next, introduce the mixed berries to the bowl — be sure to include a delicious variety of blueberries, raspberries, and some sliced strawberries. If you’re using whole strawberries, take a moment to slice them for better incorporation within the salad.
Step 2: Toast the Pecans
For maximum flavor, we’ll toast the pecans. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and add the chopped pecans. Stir them frequently to prevent burning, allowing them to toast for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly darker in color. This step not only enhances their nutty flavor but also adds an important crunch to the salad. Once toasted, remove them from the heat and let them cool while you prepare the rest of the salad.
Step 3: Add Toppings
Now it’s time to add the finishing touches! Sprinkle the toasted pecans over the spinach and berries directly in the bowl. Follow with the crumbled feta cheese; this will provide a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the fruit. Make sure all ingredients are evenly dispersed for the best dining experience!
Step 4: Make the Dressing
To create the dressing, take a small bowl and add the balsamic glaze, honey, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Using a whisk, combine these ingredients thoroughly until well-blended. This dressing will add a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, enhancing the overall flavors of the salad.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Finally, drizzle the freshly made dressing over the salad. Using salad tongs, gently toss all the ingredients together to ensure everything is coated in that delicious dressing. This is a crucial step — you want to avoid bruising the berries and spinach while still ensuring that every bite is flavorful. Serve the salad immediately for the best textures and flavors!
Variations
- Protein: Top your salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Vegetables: Add sliced cucumbers or bell peppers for an additional crunch and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with herbs like mint or basil to elevate the taste profile!
Cooking Notes
- For a vegan option, substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
- This salad pairs excellently with grilled meats for a balanced meal.
- Serve it alongside other summer dishes like pasta salad or corn on the cob for a complete spread.
Tips
- Always wash your spinach and berries just before you’re ready to use them to maintain freshness.
- For a sweeter dressing, you can add more honey according to taste.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving
- Protein: 6 grams
- Sodium: 150 mg
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While the salad is best served fresh, you can prepare all the components separately and assemble just before serving.
What berries work best in this salad?
Blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are all fantastic choices. Feel free to mix in blackberries or any seasonal fruit available!
Can I use a different type of dressing?
Absolutely! A honey mustard or lemon vinaigrette would also pair nicely with this salad.
How long can leftovers be stored?
It’s best to consume leftovers within a day to maintain the texture of the spinach and berries.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for the palate. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it a versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re having a family dinner or a picnic with friends, this salad is sure to impress and satisfy. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. I encourage you to try this recipe, explore variations, and let me know how your experience turned out. Happy cooking!
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Delicious Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans and Feta
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Berry Spinach Salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish perfect for summer!
Ingredients
- 6 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, sliced strawberries)
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Begin by adding the fresh baby spinach to a large mixing bowl.
- For maximum flavor, we’ll toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the toasted pecans and crumbled feta cheese over the spinach and mixed berries.
- Make the dressing by whisking together balsamic glaze, honey, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss before serving.
Notes
You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Protein: 6 g