Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad Fresh and Flavorful

Do you crave a salad that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further! My Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad combines fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, and crunchy walnuts for a delightful mix. With a simple balsamic dressing, it’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re preparing a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, this salad is both delicious and easy to make. Let’s dive into the fresh ingredients and tasty tips!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: This salad is packed with fresh baby spinach and sweet strawberries, making it a light and healthy choice.
- Flavor Balance: The combination of tangy feta and crunchy walnuts adds a delightful contrast to the sweet balsamic dressing.
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the ingredients make it visually appealing, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Fresh Produce
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
The fresh produce is the heart of this salad. Baby spinach adds a soft, leafy base. It is packed with vitamins. Strawberries bring sweetness and a lovely red color. Their juicy texture contrasts nicely with the spinach. The red onion adds a sharp bite. This gives the salad depth and flavor. Together, these ingredients create a colorful and healthy mix.
Dairy and Nuts
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted
Feta cheese adds creaminess to the salad. It has a tangy taste that balances the sweetness of strawberries. Crumbling it on top makes it easy to enjoy. Walnuts provide a crunchy texture. Toasting them enhances their flavor. This step is simple but makes a big difference. The combination of feta and walnuts adds richness to the salad.
Dressings and Seasonings
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
The dressing ties the salad together. Balsamic vinegar gives it a sweet and tangy kick. Extra-virgin olive oil adds smoothness and richness. Honey brings in a touch of natural sweetness. A pinch of salt and pepper enhances all the flavors. Whisk these together for a quick and tasty dressing. This will elevate your salad to new heights.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Walnuts
To toast the walnuts, use a small skillet. Preheat it over medium heat. Add the chopped walnuts. Stir them often for about five minutes. You want them golden and fragrant. This step brings out their flavor. Once toasted, remove them from heat. Let them cool completely. Cooling helps keep their crunch.
Assembling the Salad
In a large bowl, combine fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion. Each ingredient adds great flavor and texture. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. This dressing adds a sweet and tangy kick to the salad.
Final Touches
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients well. This step ensures every bite is flavorful. Just before serving, sprinkle the toasted walnuts on top. This adds a delightful crunch that everyone loves. Enjoy your fresh and vibrant salad!
Pro Tips
- Walnut Toasting Tip: To enhance the flavor of the walnuts, ensure you toast them until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as they can go from perfect to burnt quickly!
- Strawberry Selection: Choose ripe strawberries that are bright red and fragrant. Avoid any with white spots or bruises for the best flavor in your salad.
- Feta Cheese Crumbling: For a creamier texture, use a fork to crumble the feta cheese instead of your hands. This helps create a more delicate finish in your salad.
- Dressing Balance: Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by varying the amount of honey based on the tartness of the strawberries. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance!
Tips & Tricks
Preparing Ingredients in Advance
To enjoy this salad, start with fresh spinach and strawberries. Wash the spinach under cool water. Lay it flat on a clean towel to dry. Store it in a container lined with paper towels. This keeps it fresh and crisp. For strawberries, rinse them gently. Remove the tops and slice them. Keep them in a separate container in the fridge. This way, they stay juicy until you’re ready to mix your salad.
Balancing Flavors
For the perfect taste, you may want to adjust sweetness and tanginess. If your strawberries are sweet, use less honey in the dressing. If they are tart, add a bit more honey. Taste the dressing before pouring it over the salad. This helps you find the right balance for your palate. The balsamic vinegar adds tang, so ensure it compliments the sweetness of the strawberries.
Presentation Ideas
Serving your salad well makes it more inviting. Use a large clear bowl to show off the bright colors. Layer the ingredients, so each one shines. Garnish with whole strawberries and a sprinkle of feta on top. This adds an elegant touch. You can also serve individual portions in small bowls. This makes the salad feel more special at any meal.

Variations
Adding Proteins
You can make this salad heartier by adding protein. Grilled chicken or shrimp works well. For chicken, season it with salt and pepper, then grill until cooked. Slice it and place it on top of the salad. For shrimp, toss it in olive oil, grill until pink, and add it as well. Both options add a nice flavor and keep you full longer.
Alternative Cheeses
If you want to switch up the cheese, try goat cheese or mozzarella. Goat cheese gives a tangy taste and creamy texture. Mozzarella is mild and adds a nice chew. You can also use a dairy-free cheese if you prefer. Just ensure it melts well or crumbles nicely on the salad.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps
You can adapt this salad to the seasons. In summer, try adding fresh peaches or blueberries for sweetness. In fall, swap in diced apples or pears for a crunchy bite. Nuts like almonds or pecans can also change with the season. They add different flavors and textures, making each salad unique.
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To keep your Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container. If you have leftover salad, separate the dressing from the salad. This way, the spinach stays crisp. Store the salad in the fridge for up to two days.
Meal Prep Tips
For meal prep, wash and slice your strawberries ahead of time. You can also toast your walnuts and store them in a small jar. Keep the feta cheese crumbled and ready to go. Prepare the dressing and store it in a separate container. When you are ready to eat, just mix it all together!
Freezing Considerations
You cannot freeze the salad once it is made. Freezing can change the texture of spinach and strawberries. However, you can freeze the walnuts if you want to keep them longer. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing.
FAQs
What is the best way to keep the salad fresh?
To keep your balsamic strawberry spinach salad fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure to separate the dressing from the salad until you’re ready to eat. This helps the spinach stay crisp. You can also wrap the salad bowl in plastic wrap. Keep it in the fridge for the best results.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegan. Swap the feta cheese for a plant-based cheese or omit it altogether. Use maple syrup instead of honey for the dressing. This way, you can enjoy the same great flavors without dairy.
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers for up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to keep the dressing separate until serving. If the spinach starts to wilt, it’s best to eat it sooner. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating leftovers.
The salad we discussed is fresh, tasty, and easy to make. You can use spinach, strawberries, and feta cheese for great flavor. Toasting walnuts adds a nice crunch. Preparing ingredients ahead helps save time. You can change the recipe with proteins and seasonal fruits. Store leftovers properly to keep them fresh longer.
This salad is fun to make and highly customizable. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own!

Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad
Ingredients
4 cups fresh baby spinach
1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Start by toasting the walnuts. Preheat a small skillet over medium heat, add the chopped walnuts, and toast for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine, making sure all ingredients are well coated.
Sprinkle the toasted walnuts on top just before serving for added crunch.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4
– Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in a large clear bowl to showcase the vibrant colors. Garnish with a few whole strawberries and a sprinkle of additional feta cheese on top for an elegant finish.

Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Start by toasting the walnuts. Preheat a small skillet over medium heat, add the chopped walnuts, and toast for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine, making sure all ingredients are well coated.
- Sprinkle the toasted walnuts on top just before serving for added crunch.




![- 1 can of tuna in water, drained - 1 ripe avocado, mashed - 1 small red onion, finely chopped - 1 jalapeño, deseeded and minced - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise - 1 tablespoon lime juice - 1 teaspoon chili powder - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish - Tortilla chips or lettuce leaves for serving To make Spicy Avocado Tuna Salad, gather these main ingredients first. The tuna gives protein, while the avocado adds creaminess. The red onion and jalapeño bring a nice crunch and heat. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less jalapeño. The mayonnaise and lime juice create a smooth base, while chili powder adds a kick. - Additional spices (e.g., cumin or paprika) - Other vegetables (e.g., corn or bell peppers) You can add more flavors with optional ingredients. Spices like cumin or paprika can deepen the taste. Adding corn or bell peppers can give the salad more texture and color. Feel free to get creative based on what you like! - Alternatives for mayonnaise (e.g., Greek yogurt) - Gluten-free options for serving If you want a lighter version, swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. This keeps the creaminess but cuts some calories. For gluten-free options, serve your salad in lettuce leaves instead of tortilla chips. This makes it fresh and crunchy. For the full recipe, check out the details above! - First, drain the can of tuna and set it aside. - Next, take a ripe avocado and mash it in a bowl. - Chop the small red onion into fine pieces. - Deseed and mince the jalapeño carefully. - Now, combine the drained tuna and mashed avocado in a big bowl. - Add the chopped red onion and minced jalapeño to the mix. - Stir in the mayonnaise and lime juice for creaminess. - Sprinkle in the chili powder, salt, and pepper. - Mix everything well but don’t over-mash the avocado for good texture. - Chill the salad in the fridge for about 20 minutes. - This helps the flavors blend nicely. - Serve it on a platter with tortilla chips or in lettuce leaves. - For a nice touch, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. - This adds color and flavor to your dish. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To get the best texture from your avocado, choose a ripe one. It should feel slightly soft when you press it. When mixing, combine the tuna and avocado gently. You want to keep some small chunks of avocado for a nice bite. If you mix too hard, it turns into a mush. You can change the spice level to suit your taste. If you want it spicier, add more jalapeño. For a milder taste, use less. Freshness is key! Squeeze some lime juice for brightness or toss in fresh herbs like cilantro. These will boost the taste and make it more vibrant. This salad pairs well with tortilla chips for a crunchy bite. You can also use lettuce leaves to make wraps. These options are fun and easy. Serve on a platter with extra garnishes for a colorful display. {{image_2}} You can easily change the spice level of this salad. For a mild version, skip the jalapeño. If you want a medium heat, use just half of it. For a hot kick, add more jalapeño or even some hot sauce. You can also play with flavors by adding unique fruits. Try diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist. These fruits add freshness and a fun texture. If you follow a keto diet, you can lower the carbs. Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. This makes the salad creamy without extra carbs. For those who prefer vegan options, swap the tuna for chickpeas. Just mash the chickpeas and mix as you would with tuna. This keeps the salad hearty and full of flavor. You can make this salad ahead of time. Just mix it and store it in the fridge. It tastes even better after chilling for a few hours. This makes it a great option for meal prep. For packable lunches, use lettuce leaves as wraps. They are easy to grab and eat on the go. You can also pack tortilla chips on the side for a crunchy dip. This way, you enjoy a tasty and healthy lunch anywhere. Check out the Full Recipe for all the details you need to make this dish! To keep your Spicy Avocado Tuna Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container. This prevents air from drying it out. Place the salad in the fridge as soon as you finish eating. It's best to eat leftovers within two days for the best taste and texture. If you want to keep it from browning, add a little extra lime juice on top before sealing. That keeps the vibrant green color and fresh flavor intact. Can you freeze Spicy Avocado Tuna Salad? I do not recommend freezing this salad. The avocado will turn brown and lose its creamy texture. If you must freeze it, use a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before using. Mix it again to restore some creaminess. However, it’s best to enjoy it fresh. In the fridge, your salad lasts about 2 to 3 days. Check for any off smell or change in color. If the avocado turns brown or the salad smells sour, it’s time to throw it away. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety! Spicy Avocado Tuna Salad is a fresh, tasty dish. It combines creamy avocado and flavorful tuna. The main parts are: - 1 can of tuna in water, drained - 1 ripe avocado, mashed - 1 small red onion, finely chopped - 1 jalapeño, deseeded and minced - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise - 1 tablespoon lime juice - 1 teaspoon chili powder - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish - Tortilla chips or lettuce leaves for serving This salad offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The creamy avocado pairs well with the tuna. The jalapeño adds a spicy kick, making every bite exciting. Making this salad is quick and easy. It takes about 10 minutes to prep. After mixing, chill it in the fridge for 20 minutes. So, the total time is about 30 minutes. Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. Making it a few hours in advance boosts the flavors. Just store it in the fridge. However, I recommend eating it within 1-2 days for the best taste. Absolutely! This salad is packed with nutrients. Tuna is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Avocado provides healthy fats and fiber. The fresh veggies add vitamins and minerals. Overall, this salad is a nutritious choice. Yes, you can adjust the recipe. For picky eaters, skip the jalapeño. You can also reduce the onion or omit it. Try using less mayonnaise for a lighter salad. These changes can make it more appealing. This salad pairs well with many sides. Consider serving it with: - Tortilla chips for crunch - Lettuce leaves for wraps - Fresh veggies for dipping You can also enjoy it on toast or in a sandwich. Explore different combinations to find your favorite! For the full recipe, check out the details above. This blog post explored making Spicy Avocado Tuna Salad. You learned about key ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for the best texture and flavor. We also discussed various storage options and meal prep ideas. Remember, you can customize this salad with flavors you love. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients to make it your own. With these simple steps, you can create a dish that is both tasty and healthy.](https://dailydishlab.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/d0a9ed67-e173-4566-8740-66c3432e7a5a-768x768.webp)


