Name: 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups fresh baby spinach; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional); 1/3 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese; 1/3 cup candied pecans or walnuts; 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; Salt and black pepper to taste

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This 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is one of my favorite quick and refreshing dishes to throw together. It’s sweet, tangy, crisp, and loaded with flavor from fresh strawberries, baby spinach, crunchy nuts, and a zippy homemade vinaigrette. Whether I’m serving it as a light lunch or a vibrant side, this salad never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s light, fresh, and comes together in minutes. The sweetness of the strawberries balances beautifully with the earthy spinach, while the vinaigrette adds just the right tang. It’s perfect for spring and summer, but honestly, I make it all year round when I want something healthy and satisfying without spending much time in the kitchen. 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh baby spinach
Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Feta cheese or goat cheese, crumbled
Candied pecans or walnuts (or plain toasted nuts)
Balsamic vinegar
Olive oil
Honey or maple syrup
Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper

Directions

I start by whisking together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make a quick vinaigrette.
In a large bowl, I toss the baby spinach with the sliced strawberries and red onion (if using).
I drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to coat the leaves evenly.
I top the salad with crumbled cheese and nuts just before serving, giving it a final toss or leaving the toppings layered on for presentation.

Servings and timing

This salad serves about 4 people as a side or 2 as a light main. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and 5 minutes to assemble. Total time: approximately 15 minutes.

Variations

I add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a full meal.
I swap the feta with blue cheese or shaved parmesan depending on what I have.
I use baby arugula or mixed greens for a peppery twist.
I add avocado slices for creaminess.
I mix in blueberries or mandarin oranges for extra fruitiness.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover salad (without dressing) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If it’s already dressed, I try to eat it the same day since the spinach wilts quickly. The vinaigrette can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week—just give it a good shake before using. 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad

FAQs

Can I use a store-bought dressing?

Yes, I sometimes use a good-quality balsamic vinaigrette or poppyseed dressing when I’m in a rush. But homemade always tastes fresher.

What kind of nuts work best?

I like candied pecans for a sweet crunch, but walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds work great too.

Can I prep this salad ahead of time?

I often prep the ingredients (slice strawberries, make vinaigrette, wash spinach) and keep them separate. I assemble just before serving to keep everything crisp.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Absolutely. I skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. The salad is still flavorful and refreshing.

What protein can I add to make it a meal?

I love topping it with grilled chicken, pan-seared salmon, or baked tofu for a hearty, balanced lunch or dinner.

Conclusion

This 15-Minute Strawberry Spinach Salad is one of those simple recipes that I keep in my rotation year-round. It’s fast, beautiful, and full of flavor—perfect for days when I want something quick but still feel like I’m eating something special. It’s a go-to for entertaining, meal prep, or just treating myself to something fresh.