If ever there was a combination that manages to be both stunningly beautiful and absolutely delicious, it’s the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans. This dish is my go-to whenever I want to impress guests or simply brighten up my own lunch table with a burst of color and flavor. The sweetness of ripe strawberries, tender greens, creamy cheese, and crunch of candied pecans—every little element brings something magical to the table. Add in a tangy-sweet homemade balsamic dressing and what you get isn’t just a salad; it’s a celebration in a bowl!

Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity: just a handful of fresh, quality ingredients that each bring their own pop of taste, texture, or vibrant color. Don’t skip any of them—they’re all purpose-picked for a reason!

Spinach or baby kale: The perfect crisp, leafy foundation that’s both tender and mild—aim for about 5 cups, washed and well dried.
Strawberries: Look for ripe, bright berries; slicing them brings out their juiciness and adds a vibrant sweetness throughout the salad.
Feta or goat cheese: Crumbled cheese adds a delightfully creamy, tangy punch that balances the fruit beautifully; pick your favorite.
Candied pecans: These are the wow factor—crunchy, buttery, and just a touch sweet, they make every bite irresistible.
Balsamic glaze or vinegar: Either lends depth and acidity to the dressing, marrying the sweet and savory elements together.
Extra virgin olive oil: Its richness binds the dressing and gives it that classic, silky finish.
Raw honey: A hint of natural sweetness ties the dressing together—use your favorite local honey.
Dijon mustard: For a tiny undercurrent of sharpness and body; just a teaspoon will do.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning; taste as you go to get it just right.

How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Step 1: Prepare the Greens and Berries

Start by thoroughly washing and drying the spinach or baby kale. Fresh greens are the backbone of this salad, so don’t rush this step! Once dry, place your greens in a large salad bowl. Wash the strawberries, hull them, and slice them evenly. Their ruby red color and sweet juiciness are what make this salad sing, so scatter them generously over the greens.

Step 2: Add the Cheese

Now it’s time for creamy, tangy goodness. Sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese evenly over the salad. This adds both contrast and richness, making each forkful extra delightful. If you love cheese, feel free to add a touch more—no one’s judging here!

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic glaze or vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, raw honey, Dijon mustard, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. The key is to combine until the dressing emulsifies, turning glossy and uniform. Taste and adjust—maybe a bit more honey for sweetness, or mustard for tang. This is the flavor backbone for your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans, so make it sing!

Step 4: Dress and Toss

Pour the dressing over your prepared salad, using about three-quarters to start, and toss gently to coat every leaf and slice. Add more as needed—this is all about taste and balance. Careful tossing ensures the greens stay delicate and the strawberries retain their shape.

Step 5: Garnish with Pecans

Finally, scatter the candied pecans right on top. They’re last for a reason; this keeps them crisp and appealing. Their glossy sweetness and crunch contrast with the tender greens and fruit perfectly. Now your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is ready to be devoured!

How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans

Garnishes

A finishing sprinkle of extra feta or goat cheese, ribbons of fresh basil or mint, or even a hint of lemon zest can elevate each bowl to crave-worthy status. If you love a bit more crunch, toss on some extra candied pecans just before serving—you’ll thank yourself later.

Side Dishes

This salad shines alongside a variety of partners. Serve with grilled chicken or fish for a satisfying meal, or pair with toasted ciabatta bread for lunch al fresco. Want to keep it vegetarian? Roasted sweet potatoes or a light soup make beautiful companions for Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the salad in individual mason jars for a picnic-perfect treat, or layer on a large platter for a show-stopping centerpiece. Mini phyllo cups filled with salad make bite-sized appetizers. The colors pop no matter how you serve it—let your imagination run wild!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within a day, as the strawberries and greens can soften and lose their crispness over time. For optimal freshness, keep the dressing and pecans separate until you’re ready to eat.

Freezing

This salad isn’t suitable for freezing, as the fresh ingredients (especially spinach and strawberries) don’t bounce back after thawing—they’ll become limp and watery. The candied pecans, however, can be frozen in a separate airtight container for future salads or snacking!

Reheating

Salads like this are meant to be served fresh and cold, so reheating isn’t advised. If your pecans or dressing have been refrigerated, let them come to room temperature to bring out their full flavors before tossing with the salad base.

FAQs

Can I use another type of green besides spinach or baby kale?

Absolutely! Mixed greens or arugula are fantastic swaps, though each brings a slightly different texture and flavor. Arugula, for instance, adds a peppery note that pairs funnily well with sweet strawberries and creamy cheese.

What’s the best cheese substitute if I’m dairy-free?

If you’re avoiding dairy, try vegan feta or leave the cheese out altogether—the salad will still have plenty of flavor from the other ingredients. Toasted seeds or avocado can add some richness if you miss the creaminess.

Can I use fresh pecans instead of candied?

Plain toasted pecans are wonderful and will give a nutty crunch, just with less sweetness. If you want to candy them yourself, toss pecans with a little maple syrup and bake until glossy—homemade always tastes amazing in Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans!

How far in advance can I make this salad?

You can prep the dressing and slice the strawberries up to a day ahead, but for the freshest experience, assemble the salad just before serving. Store the pecans, cheese, and strawberries separately to keep everything at its best.

What protein can I add to make this salad a meal?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or even tofu are popular choices to bulk up your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans and transform it into a hearty lunch or dinner. The flavors work beautifully with just about any protein you love.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, you simply have to try this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans. It’s everything a fresh salad should be—vibrant, flavorful, and impossibly easy to love. Whip it up for your next gathering or treat yourself; you won’t be disappointed!