Pioneer Woman Spinach Strawberry Salad Recipe
The Pioneer Woman Spinach Strawberry Salad Recipe is fresh, colorful and full of flavor. It combines sweet strawberries with crisp spinach leaves. The mix of fruit and greens tastes light and refreshing.
Ingredients
- 5 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1½ cups fresh strawberries sliced
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced
- ¼ cup sliced almonds
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds optional
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Wash the Spinach
- Place the fresh spinach in a large bowl of cold water. Swirl gently to remove dirt. Drain well and pat dry using paper towels so the salad stays crisp.
Prepare the Strawberries
- Wash the strawberries carefully under cool water. Remove the green tops using a knife. Slice them into thin pieces. Fresh slices give the salad sweetness and bright color.
Slice the Onion
- Take a small red onion and slice it very thin. Thin slices give flavor without overpowering the salad. If the taste feels strong, soak slices in cold water briefly.
Toast the Almonds
- Place sliced almonds in a dry pan over medium heat. Stir gently for two minutes until lightly golden. Toasting makes the almonds crunchy and adds a warm nutty flavor.
Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, add olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper. Whisk well until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly thick.
Combine the Salad Base
- Place the spinach leaves in a large salad bowl. Add the sliced strawberries and red onion. Toss gently using salad tongs so the ingredients mix evenly.
Add the Crunchy Toppings
- Sprinkle toasted almonds, sunflower seeds and crumbled feta cheese over the salad. These toppings add texture and make every bite more exciting.
Pour the Dressing
- Drizzle the dressing slowly over the salad. Use just enough to coat the ingredients lightly. Too much dressing can make the salad soggy.
Toss the Salad
- Gently toss the salad using salad tongs. Make sure the spinach, strawberries, and toppings get covered with dressing evenly.
Serve Immediately
- Transfer the salad to serving bowls or plates. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. Fresh spinach tastes best when served right after mixing.
Notes
- Always use fresh baby spinach for the best taste.
- Slice strawberries just before serving for maximum freshness.
- Toasting almonds improves flavor and crunch.
- Add grilled chicken for extra protein.
- Do not add dressing too early to keep spinach crisp.