Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe with Maple Balsamic Dressing
A vibrant, refreshing salad blending sweet strawberries, earthy baby spinach, tangy feta, and a homemade maple balsamic dressing. Perfect as a light meal or side, this quick dish balances flavors and textures for a crowd-pleasing, no-fuss recipe.
- Prep Time: 10
- Total Time: 10
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: quick
- Method: None
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
5 cups baby spinach – Washed and dried
1 pint strawberries – Sliced, about 2 cups
1 cup thinly sliced red onion
¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup crumbled goat cheese (optional substitution for feta)
¼ cup olive oil
3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 tsp maple syrup (or honey)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
¼ tsp salt
â…› tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until emulsified; add 1 tbsp water if too thick.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, and feta (or goat cheese). Avoid over-packing.
Combine & Serve: Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad. Gently toss with tongs until evenly coated but not wilted. Serve immediately or chill for 10 minutes.
Notes
Swap feta with goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
Omit bacon (original recipe) for a pork-free version.
Add ¼ cup crumbled tofu or grilled chicken for extra protein.
Keep dressing separate if prepping ahead to maintain texture.
Avoid tasting raw dressing with balsamic vinegar, as acidity can sour mixed greens quickly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg