Spinach Salad

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

I’ve always been a fan of vibrant, fresh salads, but this spinach salad has truly stolen my heart. The first time I put it together, I was struck by how a handful of humble ingredients came alive in a way that felt both elegant and effortless. There’s something about the tender spinach leaves, crisp toppings, and tangy dressing that makes this dish irresistible, even to those who swear they don’t like salads.

What I love most is how versatile it is. Whether I’m hosting a casual brunch, looking for a light dinner, or just want something quick and nourishing, this spinach salad fits right in. I find myself reaching for this recipe over and over, experimenting with what’s in season or what’s already in my pantry. Every time, it delivers a burst of flavor and a touch of sophistication.

Making it has also become a little ritual for me. Washing the spinach, whisking the dressing, tossing everything together—it’s meditative and satisfying. I always feel good knowing I’m serving something healthy and beautiful to the table, and I can’t wait for you to experience that feeling too.

Why You’ll Love This Spinach Salad

This spinach salad is packed with fresh, nutrient-rich ingredients and is so quick to prepare. It works perfectly as a side dish or can be transformed into a main course with a few added proteins. The flavors are balanced beautifully: earthy spinach, sweet and tart fruit, crunchy nuts, and a luscious dressing. It’s not only delicious but also visually stunning, which makes it ideal for entertaining or brightening up a weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Fresh spinach is the star of this salad, providing a tender, leafy base that’s loaded with vitamins and minerals. I always opt for baby spinach because it’s delicate and mild in flavor, perfect for letting the other ingredients shine.

I like to add sliced strawberries for their juicy sweetness, which contrasts beautifully with the earthy greens. A handful of crumbled goat cheese brings creamy tanginess, while toasted walnuts add crunch and a nutty depth of flavor. Finally, thinly sliced red onions lend a sharp bite that cuts through the richness.

For the dressing, I whisk together balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, a touch of honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory that ties all the components together.

How to Make Spinach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

Wash the spinach thoroughly in cold water and pat it dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner. Place the spinach in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Add the Toppings

Top the spinach with sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, toasted walnuts, and thinly sliced red onions. Try to distribute them evenly across the salad so you get a little of everything in each bite.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until the dressing emulsifies. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Gently toss everything together until the spinach is well-coated and the toppings are evenly mixed. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

What I love about this spinach salad is how easy it is to adapt. If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, try feta or even blue cheese for a stronger flavor. You can swap out the strawberries for other fruits like blueberries, apples, or even pomegranate seeds depending on the season. Pecans or almonds can stand in for walnuts if you prefer, and if you want to make it a meal, adding grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas works wonderfully. The dressing can also be tweaked—try maple syrup instead of honey or a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

I often serve this spinach salad alongside roasted chicken or a hearty pasta dish. It also makes a refreshing starter for a multi-course dinner or a vibrant side for a summer BBQ. Pair it with crusty bread and a glass of crisp white wine to make it feel like a restaurant-quality experience at home. If you’re packing it for lunch, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to avoid soggy greens.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Spinach salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the texture of the spinach. If you’re making it ahead of time for a party, prep all the components and assemble right before serving. This salad doesn’t need reheating, but if you’re adding a protein, warm it just before adding it on top.

FAQs

How do I keep spinach salad from getting soggy?

Make sure to dry the spinach thoroughly after washing and only dress the salad right before serving.

Can I make spinach salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prep all the ingredients and store them separately. Assemble and dress just before serving.

What proteins go well with spinach salad?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, steak, or even hard-boiled eggs are delicious additions.

Can I use frozen spinach for spinach salad?

I don’t recommend it. Fresh spinach gives the best texture and flavor.

How long can I store leftover spinach salad?

For the best quality, eat it within a day and keep the dressing separate if possible.

Related Recipes You’ll Like

If you loved this spinach salad, you’ll enjoy trying out some of my other fresh and flavorful recipes. My Roasted Zucchini and Squash makes an excellent side dish to accompany your salad. You might also love the Greek Lemon Potatoes for a citrusy, savory addition to your meal. For a heartier option, check out my Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, which pairs beautifully with a fresh salad.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to save this spinach salad recipe so you can come back to it anytime you need a quick and delicious dish. Pin it to your favorite Pinterest board for easy access and share it with your friends and family on social media. Every time you share, you inspire someone else to enjoy a fresh, healthy, and beautiful meal. Happy sharing!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?