There is something incredibly refreshing about a salad that balances sweet, tangy, crunchy, and creamy all in one bite, and that’s exactly what the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe offers. This vibrant dish combines fresh spinach with juicy berries, the saltiness of feta, and the rich crunch of toasted pecans, all beautifully tied together by a luscious balsamic glaze. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a colorful side, or a showstopping dish to impress guests, this Berry Spinach Salad recipe brings flavor and flair with ease and grace.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to salad perfection, and this recipe keeps things simple but thoughtfully chosen. Each component adds a unique layer of flavor, texture, or color to make every bite sing.
- Fresh spinach leaves: The leafy base brings a tender, earthy freshness that’s nutrient-packed and vibrant green.
- Strawberries (sliced): Sweet and juicy, strawberries brighten the salad with a burst of color and fruity flavor.
- Blueberries: Tiny pockets of tangy sweetness that complement the strawberries for a berrylicious combo.
- Red onion (thinly sliced): Adds a sharp, slightly spicy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the berries.
- Feta cheese (crumbled): Creamy and salty, the feta enriches the salad with a luscious texture and depth of flavor.
- Pecans (toasted): Toasting enhances their nutty aroma and gives a satisfying crunch to each forkful.
- Balsamic vinegar: Reduced into a glaze, it offers a tangy sweetness that ties all the ingredients together.
- Honey (optional): A touch of honey smooths the glaze with subtle floral notes, balancing acidity with natural sweetness.
How to Make Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Start by placing the fresh spinach leaves in a large mixing bowl. Then add the sliced strawberries, blueberries, and thinly sliced red onion. This colorful combination forms the heart of the salad, making it not only delicious but visually stunning. Mixing the berries with the spinach early helps distribute the flavors and aromas evenly.
Step 2: Add Pecans and Feta
Next, sprinkle the toasted pecans over the greens and berries. The toasty crunch will add a wonderful texture contrast to the tender spinach and juicy berries. Then, generously crumble feta cheese atop the salad — its creamy saltiness perfectly balances the sweetness and acidity of the other components.
Step 3: Make the Balsamic Glaze
In a small saucepan over medium heat, pour in the balsamic vinegar and let it simmer gently until it reduces by half. This slow reduction thickens the vinegar into a syrupy glaze. If you love a touch of sweetness, stir in a teaspoon or two of honey once the glaze is off the heat. This glaze is the magic that brings the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe to life.
Step 4: Dress and Toss the Salad
Just before serving, drizzle the warm balsamic glaze over the salad. Use gentle tossing motions to combine everything without bruising the berries or wilting the spinach. Each bite should have a lovely balance of flavor, texture, and color that dances across your taste buds.
How to Serve Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance and texture, try garnishing with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. These simple additions highlight the salad’s freshness and add a little aromatic lift that’s simply irresistible.
Side Dishes
This Berry Spinach Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even a lightly seasoned quinoa bowl. Its brightness and sweetness complement savory, juicy proteins perfectly, making it an ideal partner for a summer dinner or casual brunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad in individual glass bowls to showcase all the vibrant layers of spinach, berries, and nuts. Alternatively, build it as a platter centerpiece, arranging the ingredients artfully so guests can serve themselves. Another fun idea is to stuff it inside whole avocado halves for a stunning appetizer or party snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent the spinach and berries from becoming soggy, store the balsamic glaze separately and add it only when ready to serve. Leftover salad is best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing
This salad does not freeze well due to the delicate nature of spinach and fresh berries, which will become mushy once thawed. It’s best to enjoy it fresh to savor the crisp textures and bright flavors.
Reheating
There’s no reheating needed with this Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe. It’s designed to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature to preserve the vibrant tastes and textures that make it so delightful.
FAQs
Can I use other greens besides spinach?
Absolutely! Baby kale, arugula, or mixed greens can be excellent substitutes. Just keep in mind each green will slightly change the flavor profile and texture.
How do I toast pecans properly?
Simply place pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 3 to 5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Keep a close eye so they don’t burn!
Is the honey in the glaze necessary?
Nope! Honey is optional and adds a subtle sweetness that balances the vinegar’s tang, but you can skip it if you prefer a more tart glaze.
Can I prepare the salad ahead of time for a party?
You can prep all the ingredients except the glaze and tossing. Store them separately and assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
What other nuts can I use if I don’t have pecans?
Walnuts, almonds, or even candied nuts work wonderfully and bring their unique crunch and flavor to the salad.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a salad that excites your palate and brightens your table, the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe is a brilliant choice. It’s easy to make but feels special enough for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how those simple ingredients come together to create something truly delicious and memorable!
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Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing Berry Spinach Salad combines fresh spinach leaves with juicy strawberries, sweet blueberries, crunchy toasted pecans, tangy feta cheese, and a luscious homemade balsamic glaze. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish, the salad balances sweet, tart, and savory flavors for a vibrant and healthy meal.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/3 cup pecans, toasted
Balsamic Glaze
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the fresh spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and thinly sliced red onion. Mix gently to combine all the fresh produce evenly.
- Add nuts and cheese: Sprinkle the toasted pecans over the salad, followed by crumbled feta cheese. These add a crunchy and creamy texture contrast to the fresh berries and greens.
- Make balsamic glaze: Pour the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Let it reduce until it thickens and is reduced by half, approximately 5 minutes. Stir in honey if you desire a touch of sweetness to balance the tart vinegar.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the warm balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving. Toss the salad gently to coat all ingredients with the glaze without bruising the berries.
Notes
- Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, shaking frequently, until fragrant to enhance their flavor.
- The balsamic glaze can be made ahead and refrigerated; warm slightly before drizzling.
- Feel free to substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans according to preference.
- To make this salad vegan, omit feta or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- For extra protein, add grilled chicken or chickpeas.
