Welcome to one of the Best Salad Recipes for cozy winter dinners — the Strawberry Spinach Winter Salad with Pecans. This colorful bowl perfectly captures the balance of freshness and flavor with sweet strawberries, crisp spinach leaves, and crunchy toasted pecans. Dressed in a simple vinaigrette, it’s one of those Fresh Salad Recipes that can easily complement any meal or become a light, satisfying dinner on its own. Whether enjoyed during busy weeknights or served at holiday gatherings, this Strawberry Spinach Winter Salad proves that fresh and vibrant flavors can brighten up even the coldest days of winter.
Why Strawberry Spinach Winter Salad with Pecans Is a Seasonal Favorite
A Salad That Brings Back Memories
The first time I tasted a Strawberry Spinach Winter Salad, I was sitting by the window on a snowy evening, watching the first flakes of the season fall. The table was warm and inviting, surrounded by family, and there it was—a bowl glowing with color against the winter chill. Every bite of this Strawberry Spinach Winter Salad felt like a reminder that freshness still thrives even in cold months. The sweet red berries, tender green spinach, and toasty pecans added layers of comfort and nostalgia.
Ever since, this Strawberry Spinach Winter Salad has become my go-to dish for family dinners and festive gatherings alike. There’s something timeless about how the strawberries glisten beside the spinach leaves, making a simple salad look like an edible holiday decoration. It’s more than just a dish—it’s a mood booster, a memory keeper, and a promise of warmth through flavor. Having this salad on the table instantly transforms any winter meal into something special, especially when topped with a drizzle of homemade dressing.
It’s amazing how an effortless recipe like this Strawberry Spinach Winter Salad can carry so much cheer through the season. Spinach thrives in cooler months, providing a crisp, earthy base, while strawberries add a sweet and tangy contrast that wakes up the palate. Toasted pecans lend a cozy, nutty crunch, offering just the right amount of richness.
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Strawberry Spinach Winter Salad with Pecans
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A vibrant and refreshing salad combining crisp baby spinach, sweet sliced strawberries, and crunchy toasted pecans tossed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect as a light dinner or a colorful side for cozy winter meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Wash and dry the baby spinach leaves.
2. Slice the strawberries evenly and set aside.
3. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 4–5 minutes until fragrant, then cool.
4. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
5. In a large bowl, combine spinach, sliced strawberries, toasted pecans, and red onion if using.
6. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.
7. Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese if desired and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad
Keywords: strawberry, spinach, winter, salad, pecans, fresh, easy, healthy, dinner
Together, these ingredients come alive under a light vinaigrette, striking that delicate balance between sweet, savory, and slightly tangy. The Strawberry Spinach Winter Salad with Pecans refreshes the table while still feeling seasonal, grounding you in the flavors of nature during the colder months. It’s proof that even in winter, the right Fresh Salad Recipes can bring joy, health, and beautiful simplicity to your dinner routine.
Ingredients and Preparation – Making the Strawberry Spinach Winter Salad with Pecans
Fresh Ingredients That Make a Difference
The magic of the Strawberry Spinach Winter Salad with Pecans lies in its simplicity and the quality of its components. Each element contributes a unique texture and flavor, turning this dish into one of those Fresh Salad Recipes that feel both nourishing and indulgent. Selecting produce carefully will elevate your salad from good to exceptional.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh baby spinach | 5 cups | Tender, nutrient-rich base; choose deep-green, crisp leaves. |
| Fresh strawberries | 1½ cups, sliced | Adds sweetness and vibrant color; pick ripe, firm berries. |
| Pecans | ¾ cup, toasted | Warm, nutty crunch that complements fruit. |
| Red onion (optional) | ¼ cup, thinly sliced | Adds subtle sharpness to balance sweetness. |
| Feta or goat cheese (optional) | ½ cup, crumbled | Gives creamy tang for richer texture. |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp | Base for homemade vinaigrette. |
| Balsamic vinegar | 2 tbsp | Depth and tang to the dressing. |
| Honey or maple syrup | 1 tbsp | Balances acidity with natural sweetness. |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tsp | Provides mild, savory kick. |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Enhances all flavors. |
Optional add‑ins: balsamic glaze, avocado slices for creaminess, or cooked quinoa for added protein. Fresh strawberries, even in winter, are easily found in markets or can be thawed from frozen. Toasting the pecans intensifies their flavor and yields that perfect crunch that makes Fresh Salad Recipes memorable.
Step-by-Step Preparation for the Perfect Salad
- Prepare the greens: Wash and dry spinach thoroughly with a salad spinner or kitchen towel to prevent sogginess.
- Slice the berries: Remove stems and slice strawberries evenly so they mingle seamlessly with the greens.
- Toast pecans: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat, toast for 4–5 minutes until golden and fragrant, then cool.
- Make the dressing: Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard; season lightly.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, and pecans. Add optional onion or cheese. Drizzle dressing and toss gently.
- Plate and serve: Transfer to a platter and garnish with extra strawberry slices or chopped pecans.
- Adjust and enjoy: Add extra honey for sweetness or vinegar for tang to balance flavors.
Recommended tools: salad spinner, sharp knife, mixing bowls, whisk or jar with lid, and wooden spoons for tossing. This effortless approach demonstrates how Fresh Salad Recipes can deliver exceptional flavor without complexity. From the crunch of toasted pecans to the sweetness of strawberries, this Strawberry Spinach Winter Salad with Pecans proves that healthy food can be fast, festive, and full of heart.
Serving Ideas and Pairings – Enjoying Your Spinach Strawberry Pecan Salad for Dinner
Pairing Ideas for Every Occasion
The Strawberry Spinach Winter Salad with Pecans shines as both a side and a star. Its combination of juicy berries, crisp spinach, and toasted nuts makes it one of the most versatile Salad Recipes for Dinner you can prepare.
- Side dish: Pair it with roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or grilled steak for a refreshing complement to rich entrées.
- Main course: Add grilled salmon, shrimp, or tofu and include a scoop of quinoa or farro for a complete nutrient-packed dinner.
- Special occasions: Serve on a decorative platter, topping with extra pecans or cheese for a showstopping holiday presentation.
Swapping the balsamic vinaigrette for a citrus poppy seed or maple glaze introduces a new flavor dimension. No matter how it’s served, this salad continually proves itself as a reliable, adaptable Salad Recipes for Dinner option.
Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Options
- Store separately: Keep dressing in a jar and other ingredients sealed individually until ready to serve.
- Refresh spinach: If leaves wilt, soak briefly in ice water, then dry thoroughly.
- Timing: Salad components last two days in the fridge; pecans stay crisp for a week. Vinaigrette keeps up to seven days refrigerated—shake before using.
- Time-saver: Slice berries and toast nuts earlier in the day for effortless assembly before dinner or guests arrive.
These small steps make this dish one of the Best Salad Recipes to prep in advance. Each component maintains quality without effort, providing freshness on demand. The Strawberry Spinach Winter Salad with Pecans easily adapts to any table, reflecting the season’s essence with color, crunch, and nourishment.
FAQs and Conclusion – All About Strawberry Spinach Winter Salad with Pecans
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare ingredients separately and assemble right before serving for freshness.
What can I use instead of pecans?
Walnuts, almonds, or even candied nuts make tasty substitutes and keep this among the Best Salad Recipes.
How do I make the dressing lighter or vegan?
Swap honey for maple syrup and/or reduce olive oil, using orange juice to maintain flavor and brightness.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw fully and pat dry before mixing to manage excess moisture in the Strawberry Spinach Winter Salad.
Conclusion – Bringing It All Together
The Strawberry Spinach Winter Salad with Pecans celebrates what seasonal simplicity can offer—fresh greens, juicy fruit, and satisfying crunch in one vibrant bowl. Quick to make and visually beautiful, it stands tall among Fresh Salad Recipes that bring joy and nourishment to the winter table.
Whether as a colorful side or a wholesome main dish, it deserves a spot among the Best Salad Recipes for any occasion. Try adding it to your menu once, and you may find this delightful blend becoming one of your go‑to Salad Recipes for Dinner all year long.
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