Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and crunchy. The spinach provides a fresh and healthy base, while the berries add a burst of natural sweetness. The crumbled feta introduces a creamy and tangy component, and the pecans bring a satisfying crunch. Drizzled with balsamic glaze, the salad comes together with a tangy finish that ties all the ingredients together beautifully. It’s quick to prepare, bursting with flavors, and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

6 cups fresh spinach leaves
1 cup fresh strawberries (sliced)
1 cup fresh blueberries
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup pecan halves
Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, and blueberries. Toss them together to distribute the fruit evenly among the spinach.
Add Feta and Pecans:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad. Add the pecan halves for a crunchy texture.
Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:
Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad. Be sure to add just enough to enhance the flavors without overpowering the ingredients.
Toss and Serve:
Gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients. Serve immediately, and enjoy the refreshing, flavorful combination of berries, spinach, feta, and pecans.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The dressing can cause the salad to wilt, so it’s best to keep the balsamic glaze separate and drizzle it just before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use other berries for this salad?

Absolutely! You can use raspberries, blackberries, or even a combination of different berries for variety. Just be sure to keep the proportions roughly the same.

2. Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or even candied nuts for an extra touch of sweetness.

3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time but wait to add the balsamic glaze and toss the salad until just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.

4. Can I use feta cheese in a different form, such as block feta?

Yes, you can use block feta and crumble it yourself, which may result in larger crumbles for more texture in each bite.

5. How do I make the balsamic glaze?

Balsamic glaze can be bought pre-made or made at home by reducing balsamic vinegar with a bit of sugar over low heat. Simmer until it thickens into a syrup-like consistency.

6. Can I add a protein to this salad?

Yes, you can easily add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to make this salad a more filling meal. Just be sure to adjust the proportions of the other ingredients accordingly.

7. Can I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta and replace it with a plant-based cheese or leave it out entirely. You can also add more nuts or seeds for added texture and protein.

8. What kind of dressing can I use besides balsamic glaze?

If you prefer a different dressing, you can use a simple vinaigrette, honey mustard, or even a lemon-tahini dressing for a different flavor profile.

9. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Yes, you can add other vegetables such as cucumbers, red onions, or avocados for additional flavor and texture.

10. How do I prevent the spinach from wilting?

To prevent the spinach from wilting too quickly, add the dressing just before serving, and serve the salad immediately after tossing.

Conclusion

This Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s quick to prepare and bursting with freshness. The combination of sweet berries, savory feta, crunchy pecans, and nutrient-dense spinach makes it a perfect side dish or light meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a picnic, or a refreshing lunch, this salad will never disappoint.

Berry Spinach Salad

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze is a vibrant, fresh salad bursting with flavor. Sweet berries, creamy feta, crunchy pecans, and nutrient-packed spinach come together in a refreshing, tangy dish. Topped with a balsamic glaze, this easy-to-make salad is perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or dinner option for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

6 cups fresh spinach leaves

1 cup fresh strawberries (sliced)

1 cup fresh blueberries

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/4 cup pecan halves

Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)

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Instructions

Prepare the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, and blueberries. Toss gently to mix.
Add Feta and Pecans:
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and pecan halves over the salad for added flavor and crunch.
Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad. Add just enough to enhance the flavors without overwhelming the ingredients.
Toss and Serve:
- Gently toss the salad to evenly coat everything in the dressing. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Notes

Tip: To prevent the spinach from wilting, add the balsamic glaze just before serving.

Storage: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep the balsamic glaze separate until just before serving.

Substitutions: You can swap the pecans for other nuts like walnuts or almonds, and try different berries such as raspberries or blackberries.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad, Side Dish, Light Meal
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American