Name: Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups of baby spinach (110g/3.9oz); 2 cups of strawberries (290g/10oz) hulled and cut in half, larger strawberries cut into quarters; 2 stalks of celery thinly sliced; 1 cup of chopped cucumber (150g/5.3oz); 1 large ripe avocado cut into large chunks; 4 medium radishes thinly sliced; 3 large scallions (spring onions) the white and light green part, sliced; ⅓ cup of walnut halves (45g/1.7oz); 1 x 4oz log of semi-soft goat’s cheese (110g); ¼ cup pumpkin seeds (35g) optional; ½ cup extra virgin olive oil (118ml); ⅓ cup freshly squeezed orange juice from 1 large orange (80ml); 1 tablespoon runny honey; ½ heaped tbsp Dijon mustard; ½ tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 ½ teaspoon poppy seeds; ¼ teaspoon sea salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

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Introduction to Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad

Hey there, fellow busy cooks! If you’re like me, juggling life’s many hats, you know that finding time to prepare a delicious meal can feel like a magic trick. That’s why I’m excited to introduce you to my Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad—a refreshing delight that makes meal prep a breeze! Picture vibrant greens dancing with luscious strawberries, all beautifully topped with crunchy walnuts. This salad isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a quick solution for those hectic days when you want something healthy and delicious without hours in the kitchen. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad

This Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad is a true crowd-pleaser! It’s not just quick and easy to whip up; it bursts with flavors that will make your taste buds sing. In just 15 minutes, you can create a dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a light snack. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a healthy option for you and your family. Who knew salad could be this delightful?

Ingredients Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad

Let’s dive into the colorful ingredients that make up this Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad. They’re not only delightful but also packed with nutrition and flavor.

Baby Spinach: The star of this salad! Fresh, tender baby spinach gives a vibrant green base that’s rich in vitamins A and K.
Strawberries: Sweet and juicy, these beauties add a burst of flavor and a splash of color. They’re also a great source of vitamin C.
Celery: Thinly sliced for a crunchy texture. Celery adds a refreshing crispness while being low in calories.
Cucumber: Cool and hydrating, cucumbers add a nice crunch to the mix. They’re also a fun way to sneak in extra hydration!
Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado provides healthy fats and a luxurious texture that elevates this salad to new heights.
Radishes: With their peppery, crisp character, radishes add a nice kick and a lovely bite to the salad.
Scallions: These green onions offer a mild onion flavor without overpowering, giving the salad a subtle depth.
Walnut Halves: Crunchy walnuts bring a delightful nuttiness, along with omega-3 fatty acids that are great for your heart.

Orange and Poppy Seed Dressing

Goat’s Cheese: Soft and tangy, crumbled goat cheese adds a creamy richness. If you’re looking for a vegan option, simply swap it for plant-based cheese.
Pumpkin Seeds: Optional but oh-so-nutritious! They add extra crunch and are high in magnesium.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The base of our dressing, providing healthy fats and a smooth finish to the salad.
Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: A zesty pop of sweetness that brightens the overall flavor profile of the salad.
Runny Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of the orange juice perfectly.
Dijon Mustard: This mustard enhances the dressing’s flavor with a slight tanginess, making it even more delightful.
Red Wine Vinegar: Provides acidity to the dressing, which helps to balance the richness of the avocado and goat cheese.
Poppy Seeds: Tiny but mighty! They add a lovely visual appeal and a little crunch in the dressing.
Sea Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the ingredients, bringing the salad to life.

For exact measurements, including weights for the ingredients, you’ll find them at the bottom of the article for easy printing. Now, let’s get cooking and enjoy this refreshing salad!

How to Make Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad

Creating this Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad is a walk in the park! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a vibrant, tasty salad to impress everyone. Let’s dive right into the process!

Prepare the Dressing

First things first—let’s get our zesty dressing ready!

Grab a jar with a lid and toss in the extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed orange juice, runny honey, Dijon mustard, and red wine vinegar. Add in the poppy seeds, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

Now, seal the jar tightly and give it a good shake! You want everything to blend beautifully. Once it’s mixed up, pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to dress your salad. The coolness will enhance its flavors.

Assemble the Salad Base

Next up, let’s build our delicious salad base!

Grab a large serving bowl and add the baby spinach, sliced celery, chopped cucumber, thinly sliced radishes, and scallions. Toss everything together gently so that the ingredients combine nicely.

At this stage, I like to admire the colors. The vibrant green of the spinach against the bright reds of the strawberries will make your heart sing!

Add the Final Touches

It’s time for the grand finale!

Add the chunks of avocado and crumble the goat cheese over the salad. Then, gently toss everything together again. This will keep the delicate avocado intact.

Finally, drop those beautiful strawberry halves right on top. They should be the cherry on top of this gorgeous creation!

Serve Immediately

Now for the best part—dressing your salad!

Pour the chilled dressing over everything just before serving. This ensures it stays crisp and fresh. Toss everything lightly once more, making sure every bite is coated in that tangy goodness.

And there you have it! Your Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad is ready to be enjoyed. Grab a fork and dig in; you deserve every delicious bite!

Tips for Success

Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor and nutrition.
Prep your veggies ahead of time to save time during the week.
Make extra dressing to have on hand for other salads or dips.
Don’t skip the chilling step for the dressing; it makes a difference!
Customize with seasonal fruits for variety and added sweetness.

Equipment Needed

Large serving bowl for mixing the salad.
Jar with a lid for shaking the dressing (a mason jar works great!).
Cutting board and sharp knife for chopping veggies.
Whisk (optional) if you prefer mixing the dressing in a bowl.

Variations

Grilled Chicken: Add slices of grilled chicken for a protein boost, making this salad heartier for dinner.
Feta Cheese: Swap out goat cheese for feta to enjoy a saltier, crumbly texture that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
Quinoa: Toss in cooked quinoa to turn this salad into a complete meal, rich in fiber and protein.
Vegan Option: Replace goat cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey for a fully plant-based dish.
Berry Medley: Mix in other berries like blueberries or raspberries for an exciting burst of flavor and color.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat with their sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside grilled salmon or chicken for a complete meal.
Pair with crusty whole grain bread for a satisfying lunch.
A refreshing sparkling water with lemon makes a delightful drink.
For a beautiful presentation, serve in individual bowls topped with extra berries.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an aromatic touch.

FAQs about Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad

Can I make this Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad ahead of time?

While the salad is best served fresh, you can prepare the dressing and chop the veggies in advance. Just keep them stored separately in the fridge. Toss everything together right before serving for optimal freshness!

What can I substitute for goat cheese in this salad?

Don’t worry if you’re not a fan of goat cheese! You can easily swap it with feta cheese for a saltier taste or use a vegan cheese alternative if you’re aiming for a plant-based version.

How long will the dressing last in the fridge?

The dressing can be stored in an airtight jar for up to a week. However, make sure to give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients may settle.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad is naturally gluten-free! It’s a perfect option for anyone avoiding gluten while still enjoying a delicious meal.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture, you can use thawed frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just remember that they tend to be softer, and may release more juice than fresh ones.

Final Thoughts

Creating a Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad isn’t just about making a dish; it’s about uplifting your spirit amidst a busy day. Each bite bursts with flavor, from the sweet strawberries to the crunchy walnuts, and it’s a reminder that wholesome food can be both easy and satisfying. This salad can transform a simple lunch into a delightful feast. Plus, the vibrant colors make it a joy to serve. So next time you need a quick meal, turn to this refreshing salad. It’s more than just food; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors and time well spent with loved ones!