Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze

If you’re looking for a bright and flavorful dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious, you’ve come to the right place! This Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious but don’t have a lot of time to spend cooking. Plus, it’s a showstopper at family gatherings or potlucks, bringing a burst of color and flavor that everyone loves.

The combination of fresh berries, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta gives this salad a delightful mix of textures. And let’s not forget that sweet balsamic glaze! It ties everything together beautifully and adds just the right touch of sweetness. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a great choice for those hectic evenings.
• Packed with Flavor: The mix of berries and feta creates a delicious contrast that is sure to please your palate.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweetness of the berries, while adults appreciate the gourmet touch from the feta and nuts.
• Healthy Ingredients: With fresh spinach and fruit, this salad is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare ingredients ahead of time for an even quicker assembly when you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will bring you one step closer to enjoying this refreshing salad. Each component contributes its unique flavor and texture, creating a delightful experience in every bite.

For the Salad

• 6 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 cup fresh strawberries (sliced)
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup pecans (toasted)
• 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)

For the Balsamic Glaze

• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this salad is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
• Change up the cheese: Try goat cheese or blue cheese if you want a different flavor profile.
• Mix in other fruits: Substitute raspberries or blackberries for even more variety.
• Play with nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.

How to Make Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze

Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, blueberries, thinly sliced red onion, and toasted pecans. Mixing these vibrant ingredients first ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor. The spinach serves as a healthy base while the berries add natural sweetness.

Step 2: Add Feta Cheese

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of your salad mixture. The creamy texture of the feta complements the crispness of the veggies perfectly. It also adds that wonderful savory note that balances out all the sweetness from the fruits.

Step 3: Prepare the Balsamic Glaze

For the balsamic glaze, heat balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Let it simmer until it reduces by half and thickens slightly. If you’d like an extra hint of sweetness, stir in honey at this stage. Allowing it to cool after cooking helps it thicken further so that it drizzles beautifully over your salad.

Step 4: Dress Your Salad

Just before serving, drizzle your homemade balsamic glaze over the salad. This final step not only enhances flavor but also adds an appealing shine to your dish. Toss gently to distribute everything evenly without damaging those beautiful berries!

Enjoy preparing this Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze! It’s sure to become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze

Creating the perfect Berry Spinach Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some tips to help you achieve a delightful dish!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Opt for the freshest spinach and berries you can find. Fresh produce not only enhances the taste but also adds vibrant color to your salad.

• Toast the pecans: Toasting your pecans before adding them gives an extra layer of flavor and crunch. Simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they’re fragrant.

• Let the glaze cool: Allow your balsamic glaze to cool before drizzling it over the salad. This prevents wilting the greens and ensures a beautifully presented dish.

• Mix it up: Feel free to experiment with different berries or add in seasonal fruits like peaches or apples for a unique twist that keeps things exciting.

• Serve immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve your salad right after tossing it together. This way, each ingredient retains its freshness and crunch!

How to Serve Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze

When it comes to serving this berry spinach salad, presentation can make all the difference! Here are some ideas to elevate your dish for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprinkle of mint adds a refreshing aroma and a pop of color that complements the berries beautifully.
• Additional feta crumbles: A few extra crumbles of feta on top can enhance creaminess and visual appeal.
• Edible flowers: Add some edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies for an elegant touch that’s sure to impress.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Breast: Marinated grilled chicken breast makes a fantastic protein addition while maintaining a light meal feel.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A warm quinoa pilaf with herbs offers a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the freshness of the salad.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a hearty side that balances out the lightness of the salad.
• Whole Grain Bread: Serve with slices of whole grain bread or rolls for a satisfying crunch that complements this fresh dish perfectly.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create an inviting dining experience around this delicious Berry Spinach Salad! Enjoy every colorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making it a convenient and healthy option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the balsamic glaze separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess.
• Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for the best freshness.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the fresh ingredients and texture changes upon thawing.
• If you prefer, you can freeze the pecans separately for later use.

Reheating

• There is no need to reheat this salad as it’s best enjoyed cold.
• If desired, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful salad.

Can I make this Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze without feta cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute the feta cheese with your favorite dairy-free alternative or simply omit it for a lighter version that maintains all the fresh flavors.

How can I customize my Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze?

Feel free to add other fruits like raspberries or blackberries, or incorporate additional nuts such as walnuts or almonds. You can also experiment with different dressings!

Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes! Adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa can make this salad even more filling while still maintaining its refreshing qualities.

Is this recipe suitable for a large gathering?

Definitely! This salad is perfect for potlucks or gatherings. Just scale up the ingredients based on your guest count and serve it in a large bowl for everyone to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze! It’s not only a deliciously vibrant dish but also a celebration of fresh ingredients that can brighten up any meal. Enjoy making it as much as you will savor every bite! Happy cooking!