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Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans

fresh strawberry spinach salad - featured image
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A bright, fresh, and light summer salad combining baby spinach, juicy strawberries, tangy feta, and crunchy candied pecans with a homemade simple vinaigrette.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 cups fresh baby spinach, washed and dried
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
  • 1 cup pecan halves (preferably raw)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • A pinch of salt
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Candied Pecans: Heat a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add pecan halves, granulated sugar, butter, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly for 5-7 minutes until sugar melts and coats pecans evenly without burning. Transfer to a parchment-lined plate or baking sheet to cool and break apart any clumps.
  2. Slice the Strawberries and Onions: Hull and slice strawberries into thin pieces. Thinly slice red onion if using. Set aside.
  3. Make the Dressing: Whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl or jar. Season with salt and pepper to taste and whisk until emulsified.
  4. Toss the Salad: Place baby spinach in a large mixing bowl. Add sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and red onion slices. Drizzle dressing over and gently toss to coat leaves lightly without bruising.
  5. Add Candied Pecans Just Before Serving: Sprinkle cooled candied pecans on top to keep them crunchy and fresh.

Notes

Keep candied pecans and dressing separate until just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch. Dry spinach leaves thoroughly to avoid sogginess. Stir constantly when making candied pecans to prevent burning. Salad can be tossed a few hours ahead but add dressing last.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry spinach salad, candied pecans, summer salad, fresh salad, easy salad recipe, healthy salad, homemade vinaigrette

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/fresh-strawberry-spinach-salad-with-candied-pecans-easy-homemade-recipe-for-summer/