Fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor, this Strawberry Spinach Salad is the perfect balance of sweet strawberries, tender spinach, savory chicken, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta. Whether you need a quick lunch, light dinner, or refreshing side dish, this easy Strawberry Spinach Salad comes together fast and tastes absolutely delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 20 minutes
- Packed with fresh and wholesome ingredients
- Perfect for spring and summer meals
- Delicious balance of sweet, salty, tangy, and crunchy textures
- Great for meal prep or light entertaining
- Protein-rich thanks to shredded rotisserie chicken
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 rotisserie chicken breasts, shredded or cut into pieces
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 5 cups packed baby spinach
- 2 cups thinly sliced strawberries
- 3/4 cup coarsely chopped toasted pecans, divided
- 5 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
Step 1
In a large bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice and Dijon mustard. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing becomes smooth and emulsified. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 2
Add the shredded chicken, sliced red onion, baby spinach, strawberries, and 1/2 cup toasted pecans to the bowl. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 3
Transfer the Strawberry Spinach Salad onto serving plates or a large serving platter. Top with the remaining toasted pecans and generously sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad before serving.
Tips & Tricks
- Toast the pecans for a richer, nuttier flavor.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best sweetness.
- Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.
- Swap feta with goat cheese if preferred.
- Chill the salad ingredients before serving for a crisp and refreshing texture.
- Use grilled chicken instead of rotisserie chicken for a smoky flavor.
Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Gluten-Free
Notes
- This salad is best served fresh.
- If preparing ahead, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving.
- Candied pecans can be used for a sweeter variation.
- Add blueberries or raspberries for extra fruity flavor.
Nutrition
Approximate per serving:
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 29g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
FAQ
Can I make Strawberry Spinach Salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
What protein works best in this salad?
Rotisserie chicken is quick and convenient, but grilled chicken or turkey also work well.
Can I use another type of nut?
Absolutely. Walnuts, almonds, or candied pecans are great alternatives.
Is this salad healthy?
Yes, this Strawberry Spinach Salad is packed with protein, fiber, healthy fats, and fresh produce.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken or replace it with chickpeas.
What dressing pairs well with strawberry spinach salad?
Lemon vinaigrette, balsamic vinaigrette, or poppy seed dressing all pair beautifully.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: Freezing is not recommended due to the fresh greens and strawberries.
- Reheating: No reheating needed; serve chilled.
Similar Recipes
Strawberry Spinach Salad
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 rotisserie chicken breasts shredded or cut into pieces
- 1/4 small red onion thinly sliced
- 5 cups packed baby spinach
- 2 cups thinly sliced strawberries
- 3/4 cup coarsely chopped toasted pecans divided
- 5 ounces feta cheese crumbled
Instructions
Step 1
- In a large bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice and Dijon mustard. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing becomes smooth and emulsified. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 2
- Add the shredded chicken, sliced red onion, baby spinach, strawberries, and 1/2 cup toasted pecans to the bowl. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 3
- Transfer the Strawberry Spinach Salad onto serving plates or a large serving platter. Top with the remaining toasted pecans and generously sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad before serving.
Notes
- This salad is best served fresh.
- If preparing ahead, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving.
- Candied pecans can be used for a sweeter variation.
- Add blueberries or raspberries for extra fruity flavor.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a fresh and satisfying recipe that delivers vibrant flavor in every bite. The combination of juicy strawberries, crisp spinach, savory chicken, crunchy pecans, and tangy feta creates a beautiful salad perfect for lunch, dinner, or entertaining guests. Once you try this easy Strawberry Spinach Salad, it’s sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.