Summer Strawberry Salad

There’s something magically uplifting about tossing together a medley of fresh ingredients that capture the very essence of summer in every bite. This Summer Strawberry Salad is exactly that—a celebration of juicy, sun-kissed strawberries nestled atop a bed of tender spinach leaves, each component bringing its own texture and flavor to the party. With crunchy walnuts, creamy feta, and crisp cucumber slices, every mouthful is a delightful contrast of sweet, savory, and nutty notes. Drizzled with a vibrant balsamic vinaigrette, this salad isn’t just a side dish—it’s the star of any lunch or casual gathering on those long, warm afternoons.

What makes this recipe shine is its simplicity and versatility. In just 15 minutes of hands-on time and zero cooking required, you can assemble a refreshing appetizer or light meal that feels both indulgent and healthful. After a brief 30-minute chill in the fridge, the flavors meld beautifully—strawberries exude a gentle sweetness, spinach stays crisp, and the tangy dressing ties everything together. Whether you’re a beginner home cook looking to impress or a seasoned salad lover seeking a new favorite, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s also a great blank canvas: add grilled shrimp or quinoa to make it heartier, or switch out feta for goat cheese to tweak the tang. Grab your bowl and let’s dive into the bright, juicy world of Summer Strawberry Salad!

KEY INGREDIENTS IN SUMMER STRAWBERRY SALAD

Before we get started, let’s talk about the star players that bring color, texture, and a delightful flavor profile to this vibrant salad. Each ingredient has been chosen not only for its taste but also for the way it complements and elevates its companions. Here’s what you’ll need to assemble this beautiful dish:

• Spinach leaves

Tender and slightly earthy, spinach forms a lush, green base that supports the brighter flavors. Its delicate texture lets the strawberries and vinaigrette shine without overwhelming the palate.

• Strawberries

These ruby-red jewels deliver a natural sweetness and juicy burst in every slice. They balance the saltiness of the cheese and the tanginess of the dressing while adding a pop of color.

• Cucumber

Cool and crisp, cucumber lends a refreshing crunch that contrasts with the soft berries and leafy greens. Its mild flavor acts as a palate cleanser between bites.

• Feta cheese

Creamy and crumbly with a touch of salty tang, feta provides richness that harmonizes with the sweet strawberries and sharp onion. It also helps to bind the flavors together.

• Walnuts

Chopped and lightly toasted (if you like), walnuts bring a hearty bite and warm nutty aroma. Their firm texture accentuates the softer components and adds extra depth.

• Red onion

Thinly sliced, red onion introduces a subtle sharpness and vibrant hue. A little goes a long way in cutting through the sweetness and imparting a mild, tangy edge.

• Balsamic vinaigrette dressing

A lively blend of sweet balsamic vinegar and savory oil, this dressing drizzles over the salad to marry all the ingredients. It enhances each flavor note while adding a glossy finish.

• Salt and pepper

Simple seasonings that allow you to adjust the final taste. A pinch of salt brings out natural flavors, and a dash of pepper adds a gentle bite.

HOW TO MAKE SUMMER STRAWBERRY SALAD

Let’s walk through the steps to assemble this salad so it turns out perfect every time. From preparing your ingredients to giving everything a gentle toss, each stage ensures maximum flavor and texture. Here’s how to bring it all together:

1. Start by preparing all your ingredients. Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly under cool running water to remove any grit, then pat them dry with a paper towel or spin them in a salad spinner. Ensure the strawberries are hulled and slice them into thin, even pieces. Rinse the cucumber and slice it thinly as well, so every bite remains crisp.

2. In a large salad bowl, add the fresh spinach leaves as the base. Choose a bowl wide enough to let you toss the salad without spilling, so the ingredients mix evenly later.

3. Carefully layer the sliced strawberries and cucumber over the spinach. By distributing them evenly, each forkful will carry a balance of flavors and textures.

4. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top for a creamy texture. The little white morsels of feta will pop against the reds and greens, making your salad visually appealing.

5. Toss in the chopped walnuts to add a nice crunch to the salad. Spread them out so the crunch is consistent throughout.

6. Add the thinly sliced red onion for a hint of sharpness. Space the onion slices evenly to prevent any one bite from being too pungent.

7. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette dressing over the assembled ingredients. Aim for a light, even coating so nothing gets soggy but everything gets that tangy-sweet lift.

8. Gently toss the salad with tongs or salad servers to mix everything evenly, but be cautious not to crush the strawberries or feta cheese. A gentle, rotating motion works best.

9. Season your salad with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting based on your preference. Add these sparingly at first—you can always add more later.

10. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors before serving. A brief rest allows the vinaigrette to mingle with the fruit and greens, creating a cohesive, flavorful experience.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR SUMMER STRAWBERRY SALAD

When it comes to presenting this salad, a little creativity can turn a simple dish into an eye-catching centerpiece. Whether you’re hosting friends for brunch or crafting a light lunch for one, these suggestions will inspire you to plate, pair, and garnish like a pro.

• Serve with grilled chicken or shrimp slices fanned neatly along one side of the bowl. The added protein turns this into a satisfying main course, while the grill marks add visual appeal.

• Arrange the salad on a chilled platter lined with edible flowers or fresh herb sprigs. A cool surface keeps the greens crisp and invites guests to help themselves at picnics or outdoor gatherings.

• Offer a small basket of artisan bread or crisp crostini alongside the salad. Guests can scoop up juicy bits and creamy feta on a crunchy slice for a textural treat.

• Garnish with a handful of fresh basil or mint leaves, lightly torn and scattered over the top. The herbal aroma creates an extra layer of fragrance and brightness.

HOW TO STORE SUMMER STRAWBERRY SALAD

Storing a delicate salad like this one requires a few thoughtful steps to maintain its texture and flavor. While fresh is always best, these tips help you keep leftovers crisp and tasty for as long as possible.

• Transfer any uneaten salad to a refrigerator-safe airtight container, pressing a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to minimize air exposure. This prevents the spinach and strawberries from wilting too quickly.

• If you anticipate storing portions ahead of time, keep the dressing separate in a small jar or container. Adding it just before serving keeps the greens from becoming soggy and preserves the salad’s bright flavors.

• Place the container on the upper shelf of your fridge, away from the crisper drawer. A consistently cool temperature helps maintain the crispness of cucumber and spinach.

• Consume stored salad within 24 hours for peak freshness. After that, the strawberries may release too much juice and change the texture of the greens.

CONCLUSION

Bringing together the sweetness of summer berries, the earthy crunch of fresh walnuts, and the creamy tang of crumbled feta, this Summer Strawberry Salad is a light yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for picnics, lunch spreads, or as a refreshing side at any barbecue. With just a handful of everyday ingredients and a quick 15-minute prep time—plus zero cooking—this beginner-friendly recipe fits seamlessly into busy schedules. The colorful contrast of ruby-red strawberries against deep green spinach, all drizzled with a vibrant balsamic vinaigrette, makes for a feast that’s as beautiful to look at as it is to taste. Don’t forget the optional 30-minute chill in the refrigerator; it really helps the flavors meld into a symphony of sweet, tangy, and crunchy notes. Whether served immediately or after a brief rest, this salad maintains its inviting textures and bright flavors.

Feel free to print this article and save it for later use, whether you’re meal planning for the week or whipping up a quick side for unexpected guests. You’ll also find an FAQ below to address common questions and troubleshooting tips—everything from ingredient swaps to storage clarifications. If you give this Summer Strawberry Salad a try, please drop a comment or question letting me know how it turned out. I’d love to hear about your twists on the recipe, any flavor experiments you attempt, or simply how this vibrant salad brightened your table. Your feedback and culinary stories always brighten my day and help our cooking community grow!

Print Recipe

Summer Strawberry Salad

Author: Sophie Reynolds Courses: Appetizer

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Rest Time 30 mins Total Time 45 mins

Calories: 180

Description

This salad layers tender spinach with juicy strawberries, crisp cucumbers, and creamy feta, drizzled with tangy balsamic vinaigrette, for a refreshing summer side or light meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and dried

• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced

• 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced

• ¹⁄₂ cup feta cheese, crumbled

• ¹⁄₄ cup walnuts, chopped

• ¹⁄₄ red onion, thinly sliced

• ¹⁄₄ cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Start by preparing all your ingredients. Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel. Ensure the strawberries are hulled, and slice them into thin pieces. Rinse the cucumber and slice it thinly as well.
2. In a large salad bowl, add the fresh spinach leaves as the base.
3. Carefully layer the sliced strawberries and cucumber over the spinach.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top for a creamy texture.
5. Toss in the chopped walnuts to add a nice crunch to the salad.
6. Add the thinly sliced red onion for a hint of sharpness.
7. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette dressing over the assembled ingredients.
8. Gently toss the salad with tongs or salad servers to mix everything evenly, but be cautious not to crush the strawberries or feta cheese.
9. Season your salad with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting based on your preference.
10. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors before serving.

Note

• This salad can be customized by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for protein.
• Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
• Add a handful of fresh basil for a fragrant twist.
• Make it a meal by adding quinoa for a hearty component.
• Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container but is best enjoyed fresh to maintain texture.

Keywords: summer salad, strawberry spinach salad, healthy salad, balsamic vinaigrette, feta walnut salad, light summer recipes