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Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta, Pecans, and Mint Recipe

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4.2 from 52 reviews

A fresh and vibrant Strawberry Spinach Salad combining toasted pecans, baby spinach, sweet strawberries, and tangy feta cheese, all brought together with a creamy homemade strawberry dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a colorful side dish.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup halved raw pecans
  • 5 ounces baby spinach
  • 4 cups strawberries, sliced
  • 2 shallots, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, greens removed
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

  1. Toast Pecans: Place the halved raw pecans in a small frying pan and toast them over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  2. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the baby spinach. Then add half of the sliced strawberries, the thinly sliced shallots, the chopped fresh mint, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted pecans. Toss gently to combine.
  3. Prepare Dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh strawberries (remaining half), red wine vinegar, honey, lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, and sea salt. Blend until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and fully combined.
  4. Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the strawberry dressing over the salad mixture in the bowl. Toss everything well to ensure the spinach and toppings are evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
  5. Plate and Garnish: Transfer the dressed salad to a large low bowl or serving platter. Top with the remaining strawberries, pecans, feta cheese, chopped mint, and shallots for an appealing presentation and extra bursts of flavor.
  6. Serve Immediately: Serve the salad fresh to retain the crispness of the spinach and the vibrant flavors of the dressing and toppings.

Notes

  • Toast the pecans carefully to avoid burning; they should be browned and aromatic.
  • You can substitute walnuts for pecans if desired.
  • For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.
  • If you prefer a thinner dressing, add a small amount of water or additional olive oil while blending.
  • Best served immediately to maintain the fresh texture and flavors.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/strawberry-spinach-salad-with-feta-pecans-and-mint-recipe/