Hello Hello, I’m Lina Vexley! If you’ve been reading my blog, you’re aware that food to me is more than just food. It’s an opportunity to connect with loved ones, share love, and to make memories. Today, I’m thrilled to present one of my most loved recipes: my Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans. It’s fresh, light and the perfect blend of savory and sweet.
This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans was the first one I cooked during a warm summer afternoon, when I was in the mood for something fresh and refreshing to eat for lunch. When I tasted the first bite I knew this was one to keep. The strawberry shines in this salad and candied pecans give it the perfect sweetness and crunch. This salad has become a staple within our home, and I’m certain it will be a big hit in yours as well. If you’re making it for a big family event or just for you it’s sure bring a smile to your face.
Table of Contents
Are you ready to dive into the water? Let’s get started!
Ingredients That Bring Everything Together
When it comes down to a salad, the freshness of it is essential. For this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans we’re adding a sweetness with candied pecans. It’s not as difficult than you imagine!
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Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans – A Fresh & Healthy Delight
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant spinach strawberry salad with candied pecans and goat cheese is the perfect light meal for any season. The sweet crunch of the pecans pairs beautifully with the earthy spinach and juicy strawberries, while the balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together. A perfect balance of fresh, sweet, and savory in every bite!
Ingredients
2 tbsp butter
1 cup pecans
2 tbsp brown sugar
6 oz spinach leaves
1 1/2 cups strawberries, stems removed
1/4 cup goat cheese (or feta cheese if preferred)
balsamic vinaigrette (Litehouse dressing works wonderfully here)
Instructions
1. Melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and brown sugar. Stir to coat. Cook for about 3 minutes until the sugar begins to caramelize. Spread the pecans out on wax paper to cool.
2. In a salad bowl, layer the spinach leaves, strawberries, and crumbled goat cheese. Add the cooled candied pecans.
3. Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
– You can substitute goat cheese with feta if desired.
– The candied pecans can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
The simple list of ingredients contains everything you’ll need to create an enticing salad that’s as delicious as it is attractive. This is a recipe that you can make without a hitch, but nevertheless feel like you’re enticing yourself to something unique.
The Candied Pecan Secret
Let’s talk about candied pecans for a moment, because they truly help to make this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans. The recipe is simple to make: Simply melt the butter inside a smaller pan at medium-low heat. Add in the pecans, brown sugar. Stir until they begin becoming caramelized (about three minutes). That’s it! After they’re cooked lay them out on a wax paper and allow them to cool. They’ll transform into an incredibly sweet and crunchy snack that can enhance the entire salad.
Freshness at Its Best
The charm of this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans lies in its simple ingredients. The spinach provides an earthy and fresh flavor while the strawberries provide the perfect amount of sweetness. The flavor combination is so refreshing and light that it’s an ounce of summer every time you eat.
How to Assemble This Gorgeous Salad
Once we’ve everything ready now is the time to put together the salad. I enjoy how fast it all is put together, and it’s an excellent way to squeeze into a bit of self-care after an otherwise busy day.
Layering It Up
Start with the leaves of spinach to serve as your base. It’s possible to layer them in a large bowl, or set them out on plates in a variety of ways, but either way you’ll end up looking stunning. Then, scatter the strawberries all over (because who doesn’t like an extra bright colour?). Sprinkle the candied pecans on top and then break up on the goat cheese (or feta if it’s your style). Each bite should include at least a small amount from everything. So don’t cut back with the garnishes!
The Final Touch
Then, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette onto the salad right before serving. I have found that dressing the salad just before you eat it keeps the spinach fresh and fresh. If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, you can include a few additional ingredients like a sprinkle in cracked black pepper or slices of red onion for an extra zing.
Nutritional Information (Because We Like to Be Mindful Too)
It’s easy to indulge when you’re eating the salad. This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans isn’t just delicious, but packs a good nutritional punch as well. It’s light and satisfying, and is the perfect food to help you feel energized all day long.
A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
Every element of this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans adds something unique to the dinner table. The spinach is rich and the strawberries are sweet and crunchy, while the pecans taste delicious as is the goat cheese, which provides the creamy flavor. It’s a salad that is an ode to the best ingredients that each season can provide.
Serving Suggestions and Tips (For All the Occasions)
The salad is able to be served in numerous ways. I like it for a quick lunch and it’s great for picnics, breakfast, or as a salad to accompany grilling meats.
Combining to Grilled Meats
If you’re planning for a BBQ or a grill dinner, this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans makes a great accompaniment. It is delicious with grilling steak, chicken and even salmon. The salad’s lightness helps to balance the smokey and savory flavours of your grilling main course.
Perfect for Brunch or Picnics
Are you looking for something to bring to a brunch or picnic gathering? This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans is a great option. It’s bright, fresh it tastes just like a slice of sunshine. It also holds up for a few hours (just be sure to keep the dressing in a separate container till you’re ready for serving! ).
Conclusion Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans
This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans is a lively refreshing and refreshing meal that is perfect to serve for every occasion. It’s fresh, simple and bursting with delicious flavor. It doesn’t matter if you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to treat yourself to something unique it’s sure to be a huge hit. I hope you have fun cooking and eating it as much as I do!
With warmth and a pinch in spice
Lina
FAQ – Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans
Do I have to use other nuts in place of pecans in the recipe?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds or even cashews are excellent as a replacement. Each nut has their own distinct taste and texture, however the crunch made of candied nuts will always be the highlight of the show.
What can you store leftovers from the salad?
This salad tastes best fresh If you do have leftovers, you can keep your food (without dressing) in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to a day and dressing it can be added as desired prior to serving.
Do I have to prepare this salad in advance?
Yes! You can make the candied pecans, and cut the strawberries prior to serving. You can store the ingredients separately and then assemble the salad just before serving it to ensure the freshest flavor.