This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish that effortlessly combines flavor, texture, and nutrition.
What makes it special is its simplicity—just a few wholesome ingredients come together in a way that feels gourmet, yet it takes only 20 minutes to prepare.
The juicy sweetness of strawberries balances beautifully with the tang of red onion, the crunch of toasted pecans, and the creaminess of feta.
It’s dressed with a light, tangy poppy seed dressing that ties everything together with a bright, zesty finish.
Nutritionally, this salad is a powerhouse.
It’s fiber-rich from fresh spinach and strawberries, while pecans provide heart-healthy fats and a touch of plant-based protein.
Feta adds a bit of dairy protein with relatively low saturated fat.
With no refined carbs and only whole, clean ingredients, it’s a low-carb, high-nutrient option perfect for anyone looking to eat light without sacrificing taste.
Quick, easy, and satisfying, this salad is also meal-prep friendly—simply store the dressing separately and toss before serving. Whether for lunch, a potluck, or a healthy dinner side, it’s a must-make for warm-weather months.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner
Tired of soggy spinach? This salad spinner ensures your greens are crisp and dry in seconds—critical for letting the dressing cling to the leaves. It’s also great for washing herbs or other leafy greens.
KitchenAid Mandoline Slicer
Perfect for creating those ultra-thin, uniform strawberry and red onion slices in no time. This slicer saves prep time and ensures consistent texture and presentation—ideal for salads and beyond.
Cuisinart Non-Stick Skillet
Toast your pecans to perfection in this non-stick skillet. It delivers even heat distribution and easy cleanup. You’ll find endless uses for it, from sautéing veggies to making omelets.
OXO Stainless Steel Salad Tongs
These ergonomic tongs are perfect for gently tossing your salad without bruising the delicate spinach or crushing the feta. They’re versatile enough for serving pasta, flipping meats, or mixing large dishes.
Glass Mixing Bowls by Pyrex
Durable and microwave-safe, these bowls are ideal for assembling and serving your salad. Their clear sides also make it easy to see the layered ingredients—great for presentation and prep.
Strawberry Spinach Pecan Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep the Salad Base: In a large mixing bowl, add the baby spinach leaves. Ensure they are completely dry to keep the salad crisp and fresh. Add the sliced strawberries and red onion to the bowl, spreading them evenly over the greens.
- Drizzle & Toss with Dressing: Pour a light amount of the poppy seed dressing over the salad ingredients. Using salad tongs or clean hands, gently toss everything until lightly coated, being careful not to bruise the spinach.
- Add Crunch & Creaminess: Sprinkle the toasted pecan halves and crumbled feta cheese over the tossed salad. Give it one more gentle mix to distribute everything evenly, or leave the toppings layered for a more elegant presentation.
- Final Touches: Taste and season with a pinch of sea salt and a few cracks of black pepper if desired. Add more dressing if needed, just before serving, to keep the salad vibrant and not soggy.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve immediately in chilled bowls or plates for the freshest flavor. This salad pairs beautifully with grilled proteins or crusty bread for a more filling meal.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prep the salad ingredients up to a day ahead—just store the components separately and combine them right before serving.
- Toasting Pecans: Toasting enhances the flavor of the nuts—simply heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently until aromatic.
- Customizations: Try swapping feta for goat cheese or using walnuts instead of pecans. Add grilled chicken or quinoa for a protein boost.
- Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free feta alternative or omit the cheese entirely—there’s still plenty of flavor from the dressing and toppings.
Chef’s Secrets for Best Flavor
The secret to making this salad shine lies in the quality of your ingredients and the balance of textures.
Always choose ripe, sweet strawberries for maximum flavor contrast against the tangy feta and bold red onion.
If your strawberries are out of season, macerate them slightly with a dash of lemon juice and honey to boost their natural sweetness.
Another essential tip is to toast your pecans just before assembling the salad.
This small step brings out a deeper, nuttier flavor and adds a warm crunch that elevates the entire dish.
Be mindful not to overdress—lightly coating the spinach ensures the leaves stay crisp and the flavors remain balanced.
Lastly, use freshly ground black pepper at the end for a subtle kick that complements the sweetness and acidity of the salad
Serving Suggestions for Every Occasion
This salad is a versatile side or main dish and works beautifully across different settings.
Serve it chilled alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp for a light summer dinner, or pair it with crusty sourdough or a whole grain roll for a satisfying lunch.
It also makes a stunning addition to brunch spreads and potlucks thanks to its vibrant color and refreshing taste.
For a heartier version, add a scoop of cooked quinoa, chickpeas, or even sliced avocado to introduce more substance and healthy fats.
You can also offer the poppy seed dressing on the side for guests to drizzle their preferred amount.
Serve the salad on a chilled plate to keep the ingredients fresh and crisp, especially in warmer weather.
Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness
While best served immediately, this salad can be partially prepared ahead of time for convenience.
Store the spinach, sliced strawberries, and red onions separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The toasted pecans and crumbled feta should also be kept separate to maintain their texture.
Keep the dressing in a sealed jar or dressing container and shake well before using.
Only combine all components just before serving to prevent wilting and sogginess.
If you have leftovers after assembling, store them in the fridge and try to eat them within 24 hours—the texture may soften, but the flavors will still be enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Salad Questions
1. Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative. Many vegan feta-style cheeses are now available in stores and work beautifully with the sweet and savory elements of the salad.
2. How do I keep the spinach from getting soggy?
The key is to thoroughly dry the spinach after washing it. Use a salad spinner or pat it dry with a clean towel. Also, wait to add the dressing until just before serving to preserve the crispness of the leaves.
3. What can I use instead of pecans?
Walnuts, sliced almonds, or sunflower seeds are all excellent alternatives. Choose toasted or raw depending on your preference, but toasting will always bring out a richer, more satisfying flavor.
4. Can I use a different dressing?
Definitely! While poppy seed dressing pairs wonderfully here, a balsamic vinaigrette, honey mustard, or raspberry vinaigrette would also complement the strawberries and spinach beautifully.
5. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes—with a few tweaks. Prep all ingredients ahead but store them separately and combine just before eating. This keeps everything fresh and ensures a better texture when it’s time to serve.
This recipe has been adapted and simplified from the original version by loveandlemons. We’ve refined the steps for a smoother cooking experience and added helpful notes, nutrition insights, and essential kitchen tools to make it even easier for home cooks.
Jessica T. Brown is the founder of KitchenHush.com, a platform born out of her deep love for cooking and the quiet joy found in the kitchen. From a young age, Jessica discovered that the kitchen wasn’t just a place to prepare meals—it was a space for connection, creativity, and comfort. Inspired by those early memories, she created Kitchen Hush to share that experience with home cooks everywhere.