Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese is a fresh and colorful dish that combines crisp baby spinach leaves, sweet ripe strawberries, and creamy tangy goat cheese. The mix of flavors and textures makes every bite bright and satisfying, perfect for a light lunch or a side salad with dinner. It’s a salad that looks as good as it tastes, with the lovely red of the strawberries standing out against the deep green spinach.
I love making this salad when strawberries are in season because their natural sweetness really shines alongside the slightly earthy spinach and the smooth, rich goat cheese. To me, the key is to slice the strawberries just right so they blend perfectly with the salad without overpowering it. A sprinkle of toasted nuts adds a nice crunch that I find makes the salad even more interesting.
When I serve this salad, I usually keep the dressing simple—a light balsamic vinaigrette adds just the right bit of tang without covering up the fresh flavors. It’s a dish that’s always a hit at gatherings because it feels fresh, healthy, and a bit fancy without any fuss. I find it’s one of those salads that even people who aren’t huge spinach fans will happily enjoy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Baby Spinach
- This tender green is the base of the salad. If you prefer, you can swap in mixed greens or arugula for a peppery bite. Just make sure the leaves are fresh and dry for the best texture.
- Strawberries
- Use ripe, firm strawberries for sweetness and a nice contrast to the spinach. If strawberries aren’t in season, try substituting with blueberries, sliced apples, or mandarin segments for a fresh feel.
- Goat Cheese
- Creamy and slightly tangy, goat cheese adds a soft richness. If you’re short on goat cheese, feta or cream cheese are good alternatives. For dairy-free options, try a nut-based cheese substitute.
- Toasted Nuts
- Pecans or walnuts add crunch and nuttiness. Toasting them brings out even more flavor. You can also use slivered almonds or pumpkin seeds depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
- Dressing
- A simple balsamic vinaigrette with honey and Dijon mustard balances sweetness and tang. Maple syrup works well if you want a vegan option instead of honey.
How Can I Keep the Salad Fresh and Crisp?
One common challenge is avoiding soggy spinach or wilted berries. Here’s how I keep it fresh:
- Always wash spinach well and dry it completely—use a salad spinner if you have one.
- Slice strawberries just before serving to keep them firm and juicy.
- Add the dressing last and toss gently—dressing too early can make the leaves soggy.
- Keep nuts separate until ready to serve if you want them to stay crunchy.
Following these steps helps maintain the vibrant look and texture of the salad for a lively, enjoyable bite every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large salad bowl – big enough to toss all the ingredients easily without spilling.
- Sharp knife – for slicing strawberries and red onion cleanly and quickly.
- Cutting board – a safe, sturdy surface for chopping and slicing.
- Small whisk or fork – to mix the dressing ingredients smoothly.
- Salad spinner (optional) – great for washing and drying spinach quickly to keep it crisp.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add grilled chicken or sliced turkey for a more filling, protein-packed salad.
- Swap goat cheese for feta or blue cheese for a sharper, tangier taste.
- Include avocado slices for creaminess and healthy fats.
- Try adding fresh herbs like mint or basil to brighten up the flavor.
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach leaves, washed and dried
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend just a few minutes prepping the ingredients and whisking the dressing. Toasting the nuts can be done quickly on the stovetop or in the oven if you choose. Then, it’s a simple toss and serve—perfect for a quick, fresh meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. Set this aside to let the flavors blend.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Place the fresh spinach leaves in a large salad bowl. Add the sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted nuts. If you like, add the thinly sliced red onions for a bit of extra zing.
3. Toss and Serve:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently so all the leaves and toppings get a light coating of dressing without bruising the spinach. Serve immediately for the freshest taste and texture.
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
It’s best to use fresh strawberries for this salad because frozen ones can become mushy and watery when thawed. If you only have frozen, thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding, but the texture won’t be quite the same.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
This salad is freshest the day you make it. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge without dressing for up to 1 day. Dress and toss just before serving to keep the spinach crisp.
Can I Substitute the Goat Cheese?
Absolutely! Feta cheese works well as a tangy alternative, or you could try blue cheese for a bolder flavor. For a dairy-free option, consider a plant-based cheese or omit the cheese altogether and add extra nuts for texture.
What Are Good Add-Ins to Make This Salad More Filling?
Adding grilled chicken, sliced turkey, or chickpeas can turn this into a hearty meal. Avocado slices or hard-boiled eggs also add protein and healthy fats if you want something satisfying and nutritious.