There’s something magical about a Fresh Spring Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans. Each bite captures the vibrant essence of spring—sweet strawberries, crisp tender spinach, and crunchy, buttery pecans that glisten with a delicate candy glaze. Light yet satisfying, this Spinach Based Salad brings color and nutrition to every table. Perfect for brunches, picnics, or a light dinner, it’s one of those Strawberry Green Salad Recipes that never fails to impress. In this feature, we’ll explore its inspiration, ingredients, and step-by-step method, plus expert flavor tips and serving ideas to make this Sweet Spinach Salad and Salad With Candied Pecans shine.
The Fresh Start to a Perfect Spring Salad
A Personal Memory Behind This Sweet Spinach Salad
I still remember the first time I prepared a Fresh Spring Spinach Strawberry Salad. It was early April, and the farmers market was bursting with new produce—punnets of bright red strawberries, piles of baby spinach, and local honey gleaming in jars. The moment I combined them, the kitchen filled with the sweet scent of berries mingling with the earthy freshness of greens. That day, this Sweet Spinach Salad became the star of our family picnic, adding color and flavor to an otherwise simple spread. The crunch of the Salad With Candied Pecans drew everyone in, and it quickly became a spring tradition we still cherish each year.
Spinach and strawberries are a pairing born from nature’s balance—one mild and leafy, the other juicy and sweet. In a well-made Spinach Based Salad, spinach acts as a soft, earthy foundation, while strawberries provide bursts of color and flavor. Together, they create contrast: tender greens, refreshing fruit, and, when combined with pecans or other nuts, a satisfying crunch.
Among Strawberry Green Salad Recipes, this blend stands out for both texture and nourishment. The combination appeals to those who love crisp, fresh Strawberry Salads with a perfect sweet-savory harmony that reflects everything we love about the spring season.
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Fresh Spring Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
Description
A vibrant spring salad combining tender baby spinach, juicy strawberries, and crunchy candied pecans tossed in a light honey-balsamic dressing.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. In a nonstick pan, combine sugar and water over medium heat until sugar melts, add pecans and stir 3–5 minutes until glossy, then spread on parchment to cool.
2. Use a salad spinner or paper towels to dry the spinach thoroughly.
3. Slice strawberries into even pieces for uniform distribution.
4. Whisk olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
5. Toss spinach, strawberries, and red onion with half the dressing in a large bowl.
6. Transfer to a serving bowl, sprinkle with candied pecans and feta, then drizzle remaining dressing before serving.
7. Serve immediately for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: tossed
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 5
Keywords: spinach salad, strawberry salad, candied pecans, spring salad, fresh salad, sweet spinach salad
Building the Perfect Sweet Spinach Salad
Simple Ingredients for Freshness and Flavor
Creating the Fresh Spring Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans starts with choosing ingredients that highlight the beauty of the season. For a family-sized serving (about 4–6 portions), gather the following:
- 6 cups baby spinach, rinsed and dried thoroughly
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ½ cup candied pecans (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced (optional for a sharper contrast)
- ½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy touch
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
When choosing spinach, opt for young, tender baby leaves for the best texture in this Salad With Candied Pecans. Look for strawberries that are deep red and naturally fragrant; they offer the perfect sweetness without added sugar. If you can’t find pecans, lightly toasted almonds or walnuts can be substituted. This Fresh Spring Spinach Strawberry Salad can also accommodate add-ins like grilled chicken or avocado for a heartier meal. Every ingredient contributes to that delicate blend of sweet, earthy, and crisp notes that makes it one of the most charming Strawberry Green Salad Recipes of the season.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
- Prepare the candied pecans. In a nonstick pan, heat ½ cup sugar with a tablespoon of water until it begins to melt. Add pecans and stir for 3–5 minutes until coated and glossy. Spread them on parchment paper to cool and harden. These crunchy gems are the highlight of the Spinach Based Salad.
- Wash and dry the spinach. Use a salad spinner to remove excess water—wet leaves can dilute your dressing. Patting dry with paper towels works too.
- Slice the strawberries. Cut them into even slices for visual appeal and even distribution throughout the bowl.
- Whisk the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice), and honey. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust acidity or sweetness to your liking—this dressing enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- Assemble the salad. In a large mixing bowl, gently toss spinach, strawberries, and onion with half the dressing. Transfer to a serving platter or large salad bowl. Sprinkle with candied pecans and cheese. Drizzle the remaining dressing just before serving.
- Serve immediately. This Spinach Based Salad shines when fresh—crisp, aromatic, and full of color.
Whether you’re making this for a special brunch or an easy weekday meal, keep your kitchen tools handy: a salad spinner for greens, a whisk for the dressing, a baking sheet for pecans, and a large serving bowl to display your creation. The clarity of these steps ensures even beginner cooks can craft a flawless Sweet Spinach Salad bursting with flavor and springtime freshness.
The Art of Serving This Colorful Spinach Based Salad
Dressing and Pairing Suggestions
The beauty of Strawberry Salads like this one lies in their versatility—the dressing can completely transform the flavor experience. A classic balsamic vinaigrette emphasizes the tangy-sweet marriage of berries and greens. For a softer, fruit-forward note, try a honey-lime dressing that adds brightness without overpowering the delicate spinach. A creamy poppy seed dressing offers a nostalgic sweetness that pairs perfectly with the crunchy Salad With Candied Pecans.
When adjusting your dressing, focus on harmony: if your strawberries are exceptionally sweet, a dash of citrus or vinegar keeps everything balanced. Conversely, if the fruit is slightly tart, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup rounds out the flavor beautifully. Lightly toss your Sweet Spinach Salad just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting under the dressing. Small details like these help this Spinach Based Salad retain its fresh, springlike appeal every time.
Perfect pairings also extend beyond dressing. A chilled glass of lemon-infused sparkling water, a crisp rosé wine, or even a minted iced tea complements this salad’s freshness while maintaining a light, garden-inspired theme. Among all Strawberry Salads, this dish stands out for its flexibility—it can grace a brunch menu, act as a dinner side, or shine as a standalone light lunch.
Presentation and Meal Pairings
Presentation turns a simple recipe into a restaurant-worthy experience. To bring out the bold reds and greens in your Spinach Based Salad, use a white or wooden serving bowl for visual contrast. Start by layering half the spinach on the bottom, then add sliced strawberries in sections to create a pattern of color. Scatter candied pecans across the top so their shiny glaze catches the light, then crumble cheese for a touch of texture. A final drizzle of dressing just before serving makes the salad glisten irresistibly.
For special occasions, consider plating individual portions on small white plates or shallow bowls, adding a few extra candied pecans for garnish. A sprinkle of black sesame seeds or microgreens lends sophistication without overpowering the natural beauty of the ingredients.
As for meal pairings, this colorful creation fits effortlessly alongside grilled chicken, baked salmon, or roasted shrimp. It also accompanies lighter fare such as avocado toast, savory quiches, or summer sandwiches. Within the world of Strawberry Green Salad Recipes, it’s an all-round favorite—elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for weekday dining.
Whether you serve it as a refreshing appetizer or the star of your spring table, the Fresh Spring Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans adds vibrant energy and seasonal flavor to any meal. Every bite combines lush spinach leaves, the juicy sweetness of berries, and the irresistible crunch that defines a perfect Sweet Spinach Salad.
Common Questions and Recipe Insights
FAQ Section
How do you keep spinach fresh in salads?
To keep spinach crisp and vibrant, wash it gently in cold water and dry it thoroughly using a salad spinner or paper towels. Store the greens in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb extra moisture. When assembling your Sweet Spinach Salad, always add dressing right before serving—this keeps the leaves from wilting and preserves that fresh, springlike texture found in the best Spinach Based Salads.
Can I make candied pecans ahead of time?
Yes! Candied pecans can be prepared up to a week in advance. Once they’ve cooled completely, store them in an airtight jar at room temperature. Having them ready makes assembling your Salad With Candied Pecans quick and effortless, whether for an impromptu lunch or a festive gathering.
What dressing goes best with a Strawberry Spinach Salad?
The most popular choices are light vinaigrettes that highlight the sweetness of the berries and the mild flavor of spinach. A balsamic glaze emphasizes tanginess, while a honey-lime dressing brings a bright citrus twist. For those who prefer something silky, a poppy seed dressing complements both strawberries and nuts in this Fresh Spring Spinach Strawberry Salad.
How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?
Once dressed, this salad is best enjoyed immediately, as the spinach can soften quickly. However, you can store undressed components separately for up to two days. Keep the candied pecans in a sealed container and the dressing in a small jar—then toss everything together just before serving to recreate that freshly made Strawberry Green Salad Recipe flavor.
Are there substitutes for pecans or strawberries if allergic?
Absolutely. For nut allergies, try using sunflower seeds or roasted pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch without the risk. If strawberries aren’t available, raspberries, blueberries, or even sliced apples can fill the role beautifully. These variations maintain the spirit of a Spinach Based Salad while allowing for flexibility and dietary preferences.
Conclusion – Bringing Spring to Your Table
The Fresh Spring Spinach Strawberry Salad with Candied Pecans captures everything delightful about the season—fresh produce, gentle sweetness, and colorful presentation. Each ingredient plays a part: tender spinach provides the leafy base, strawberries offer juicy brightness, and candied pecans add irresistible crunch. Together, they form a Sweet Spinach Salad that’s both nourishing and elegant.
Perfect for brunch buffets, garden parties, or quick family meals, this effortlessly balanced dish showcases how simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. Try this recipe at your next gathering, and watch how the vibrant colors and flavors bring smiles all around the table. With every bite, you’ll taste the freshness of spring and understand why this Salad With Candied Pecans stands out among classic Strawberry Salads.
