30-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad with Blueberries, Pecans, Feta cheese, and a Balsamic glaze.

The 30-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad with Blueberries, Pecans, Feta cheese, and a Balsamic glaze is a delightful dish that highlights the vibrant flavors of summer. This salad combines juicy strawberries, tangy feta cheese, crunchy pecans, and a luscious balsamic glaze to create a refreshing meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a picnic, bringing a side dish to a potluck, or simply enjoying a light lunch at home, this recipe is sure to impress with its balance of textures and tastes.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of strawberries, blueberries, and spinach delivers a burst of freshness that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or as a main course; it’s suitable for any meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats from the nuts and cheese, this salad supports your wellness goals.
• Stunning Presentation: The vibrant colors make this salad visually appealing, ideal for impressing guests at gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the 30-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help you efficiently create this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Small saucepan
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ideal for toasting the pecans and prosciutto evenly without mess.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy when toasting ingredients.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for simmering the balsamic dressing until it reaches the right consistency.

Ingredients

Ingredients You Need to Toast in the Oven

• 4 oz Prosciutto (toasted)
• ⅔ cup pecans toasted, some of them chopped

Balsamic Dressing

• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup honey or brown sugar

Spinach Strawberry Salad

• 6 oz baby spinach fresh
• 3 cups strawberries cleaned and hulled, sliced
• 1 cup blackberries
• ⅓ cup feta cheese crumbled

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How to Make 30-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad with Blueberries, Pecans, Feta cheese, and a Balsamic glaze.

Step 1: Toast the Pecans and Prosciutto

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread the pecans and torn prosciutto in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

1. Toast for about 5 to 10 minutes until the nuts turn slightly darker.
2. Ensure the prosciutto gets crispy during this process.

Step 2: Prepare the Balsamic Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat:

1. Combine balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar).
2. Bring to a gentle boil.
3. Reduce heat to simmer and cook while stirring until thickened (approximately 10 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and pour into a heat-proof bowl to cool; it will thicken further as it cools.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl:

1. Combine all salad ingredients except for the pecans and prosciutto.
2. Toss gently to mix everything well.
3. Divide salad into individual serving bowls.
4. Top each bowl with toasted torn prosciutto and whole or chopped toasted pecans.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over each serving before serving.

Enjoy your delightful 30-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad with Blueberries, Pecans, Feta cheese, and Balsamic glaze!

How to Serve 30-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad with Blueberries, Pecans, Feta cheese, and a Balsamic glaze.

This vibrant 30-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful salad for various occasions.

Individual Salad Bowls

• Serve each portion in individual bowls for a personal touch. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy their own salad without needing to share.

Family Style

• Present the salad in a large bowl on the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. This encourages conversation and a communal dining experience.

Picnic Ready

• Pack the salad in mason jars or portable containers for an easy, on-the-go meal. Layer ingredients carefully to keep them fresh until serving.

As a Side Dish

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. The fruity flavors complement savory proteins wonderfully.

Garnished Plates

• Add extra feta cheese and toasted pecans on top of each serving for an appealing finish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the presentation further.

How to Perfect 30-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad with Blueberries, Pecans, Feta cheese, and a Balsamic glaze.

To make your 30-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad even more delightful, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe strawberries and fresh spinach to enhance flavor and texture.
• Toast Your Nuts: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and gives them a satisfying crunch; don’t skip this step!
• Make Ahead Dressing: Prepare your balsamic glaze in advance and store it in the fridge for quick assembly during meal prep.
• Customize Fruits: Feel free to add other berries like raspberries or blueberries, depending on what’s in season or available.
• Add Protein: Consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein if you’re serving this as a main dish.
• Serve Chilled: For a refreshing twist, chill your salad before serving to enhance its flavors.

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Best Side Dishes for 30-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad with Blueberries, Pecans, Feta cheese, and a Balsamic glaze.

This salad pairs well with various side dishes that can complement its fresh flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Breast: Seasoned simply with salt and pepper; it’s a lean protein that balances the sweetness of the salad.
2. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter add a comforting touch alongside this light dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil and herbs provide earthiness that contrasts nicely with the salad’s sweetness.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds texture and complements the flavors of your strawberry spinach salad well.
5. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses can create an elegant spread that pairs beautifully with the fruity notes of your main dish.
6. Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers can enhance the fruity elements of the salad while providing additional vitamins and minerals.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with rosemary offer heartiness that balances out lighter dishes like salads.
8. Caprese Salad: The classic combination of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provides freshness that beautifully complements your salad’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the 30-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad with Blueberries, Pecans, Feta cheese, and a Balsamic glaze, it’s helpful to be aware of common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Over-toasting nuts – Toasting pecans too long can lead to a bitter taste. Keep an eye on them and remove them as soon as they turn golden brown.
• Using low-quality balsamic vinegar – A cheap balsamic can dull the flavors of your salad. Opt for high-quality balsamic vinegar for the best taste.
• Not washing fresh produce – Skipping this step can lead to dirt and chemicals on your salad. Always wash strawberries and spinach thoroughly before use.
• Skipping the dressing cooling time – If you don’t allow the balsamic glaze to cool, it may not thicken properly. Be patient; it will enhance your salad’s flavor.
• Forgetting about seasoning – A pinch of salt can elevate the flavors in your salad. Don’t neglect seasoning your ingredients lightly.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve.

Freezing 30-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad with Blueberries, Pecans, Feta cheese, and a Balsamic glaze.

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to its fresh ingredients.
• If freezing is necessary, consider storing only the toasted nuts separately.

Reheating 30-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad with Blueberries, Pecans, Feta cheese, and a Balsamic glaze.

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5 minutes; this keeps ingredients crispy.
• Microwave – Use short intervals (10-15 seconds) while stirring; be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop – Heat gently over low heat while stirring; add a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the 30-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad with Blueberries, Pecans, Feta cheese, and a Balsamic glaze special?

This salad combines fresh fruits and nuts for a delightful texture and flavor contrast. The balsamic glaze ties everything together beautifully.

Can I customize the ingredients in the salad?

Yes! You can swap out fruits or nuts based on availability or preference. Add avocado or even grilled chicken for added protein.

How do I store leftovers of the 30-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad with Blueberries, Pecans, Feta cheese, and a Balsamic glaze?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge without dressing. Consume within two days for best quality.

Is this salad suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! Prepare all components ahead of time but keep the dressing separate until serving for freshness.

Final Thoughts

The 30-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad with Blueberries, Pecans, Feta cheese, and a Balsamic glaze is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a summer picnic or a light lunch at home. Its refreshing flavors make it versatile enough to customize easily with different toppings or dressings. Give this delicious recipe a try!