Description
This refreshing and colorful salad combines baby spinach, sweet strawberries, creamy cheese, crunchy pecans, and a tangy homemade balsamic vinaigrette. It’s the perfect side dish or light meal for spring and summer.
Ingredients
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4 cups fresh baby spinach
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2 cups mixed salad greens
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1½ cups sliced fresh strawberries
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½ cup crumbled cheese (goat cheese, feta, gorgonzola, or queso fresco)
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⅓ cup chopped pecans
For the Balsamic Vinaigrette:
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¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
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2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
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1 tbsp maple syrup
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
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In a large bowl, combine spinach, mixed greens, strawberries, cheese, and pecans.
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Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss until coated.
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Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For extra crunch, toast the pecans before adding them to the salad.
- Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent soggy greens.
- Customize with grilled chicken, tofu, or turkey meatballs for a full meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: American