Looking for a fresh and healthy meal that bursts with flavor? Try my Strawberry Spinach Chicken Salad! This vibrant dish combines tender spinach, juicy strawberries, and perfectly cooked chicken, topped with crunchy walnuts and creamy feta. Plus, I'll share an easy homemade dressing to tie it all together. Whether you're prepping for lunch or dinner, this salad is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started!
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Ingredients
Fresh Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach, thoroughly washed and dried
- 1 cup ripe strawberries, hulled and sliced into thin pieces
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped for a wonderful crunch
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled for a creamy touch
This salad shines with fresh ingredients. Spinach acts as a vibrant base. Strawberries add sweetness and color. I love using ripe strawberries, as they burst with flavor. Cooked chicken breast gives the salad protein and heartiness. Red onion offers a sharp bite that contrasts well. Walnuts bring a nice crunch and healthy fats. Feta cheese adds creaminess. This mix makes each bite exciting and tasty.
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar for bright acidity
- 2 tablespoons honey for sweetness
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard for a tangy kick
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for richness
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
The dressing is key to this salad. Balsamic vinegar gives a bright and tangy flavor. Honey balances it with sweetness. Dijon mustard adds a nice kick. Extra virgin olive oil brings a rich texture. Finally, salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. When you whisk these together, they blend into a smooth dressing. This sauce pulls all the ingredients together, making every bite delicious. You can adjust the dressing to match your taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Dressing
1. Start by grabbing a small mixing bowl.
2. Add 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar.
3. Pour in 2 tablespoons of honey.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard.
5. Next, include 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
6. Use a whisk to mix everything together.
7. Whisk until the dressing is smooth.
8. Taste it and add salt and pepper if needed.
9. Set the dressing aside to let the flavors blend.
Assemble the Salad
1. Take a large salad bowl and add 2 cups of fresh spinach.
2. Spread the spinach out to form a nice green base.
3. Carefully layer 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken on top.
4. Add 1 cup of sliced strawberries over the chicken.
5. Finish by sprinkling 1/4 cup of finely sliced red onion on top.
Sprinkle Toppings and Serve
1. Time to add some crunch! Sprinkle 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts on top.
2. Then, add 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese for creaminess.
3. Drizzle your dressing over the entire salad.
4. Toss the salad gently to mix all the flavors.
5. Make sure to keep the spinach leaves intact.
6. If you want, taste and adjust the seasoning.
7. Finally, serve the salad in bowls and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Best Ingredients
- Freshness of Spinach and Strawberries: Always pick fresh spinach. Look for vibrant, green leaves. Avoid any yellow or wilting leaves. For strawberries, choose ripe ones. They should be bright red and firm. Check for any mold or soft spots. Fresh ingredients make the salad taste better.
- Cooking Chicken to Perfection: Use cooked chicken breast for the best flavor. If you’re cooking it fresh, ensure it reaches 165°F. Season it with salt and pepper for added taste. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces for easy eating. This adds protein and heartiness to your salad.
Perfecting the Dressing
- Balancing Sweetness and Acidity: The dressing combines balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. This mix creates a sweet and tangy flavor. Adjust the honey if you want it sweeter. Add more vinegar for extra acidity. Always taste as you mix.
- Adjusting Flavor to Taste: After mixing the dressing, taste it. You might want to add more salt or pepper. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out. Make it suit your personal taste for the best enjoyment.
Presentation Ideas
- Garnishing for Visual Appeal: Make the salad look pretty by garnishing it. Add extra strawberry slices on top. A sprinkle of feta cheese enhances the look. Use a colorful bowl to make the dish pop.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the salad in individual bowls. This makes it easy for guests. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for a full meal. You can also add a glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing touch.
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Variations
Adding Extra Proteins
You can easily boost your salad with extra proteins. Grilled shrimp adds a nice flavor. Just season them lightly and grill until they turn pink. Toss them on top of your salad for a seafood twist.
Tofu is a great option for vegetarians. Use firm tofu and press it to remove extra water. Cut it into cubes and sauté until golden. This adds a nice texture and protein boost.
Flavor Enhancements
Citrus fruits can elevate the taste of your salad. Oranges or grapefruit add a sweet and tangy twist. Just peel and slice them, then scatter over the salad for a bright touch.
Different cheese options can also change the flavor. Goat cheese offers a creamy and tangy flavor that pairs well with strawberries. Crumble it on top for a delightful addition.
Dressing Alternatives
You can switch up the dressing for variety. Creamy dressings like ranch or blue cheese can add richness. These flavors mix well with the fresh ingredients.
Vinegar and oil alternatives offer different profiles. Try apple cider vinegar for a lighter taste. Flavored oils like lemon or garlic can add unique depth to your salad. Experiment and find what you love!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
- Use airtight containers to keep the salad fresh.
- Glass or plastic containers work well.
- Make sure to store the dressing separately.
- Keep the salad in the fridge for best results.
Shelf Life
- The salad lasts for 1 to 2 days in the fridge.
- Fresh spinach and strawberries can wilt quickly.
- Store dressing in a sealed jar.
- Dressing can last up to a week in the fridge.
Reheating or Serving Leftovers
- Enjoy the salad cold for the best taste.
- If you must reheat, do it gently.
- Add fresh spinach and strawberries if possible.
- This keeps the flavors bright and fresh.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. For best results, follow these tips for meal prep:
- Prep the Chicken: Cook and shred the chicken in advance.
- Wash and Slice: Wash and slice the strawberries and red onion.
- Store Separately: Keep the spinach, fruit, and dressing separate until serving. This keeps the salad fresh.
- Mix Before Serving: Toss everything together right before you eat. This way, the salad stays crisp.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you want to replace feta cheese, here are some good options:
- Goat Cheese: It has a tangy flavor and creamy texture.
- Ricotta Cheese: This cheese is soft and mild, making it a nice fit.
- Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty bite and works well in salads.
- Vegan Cheese: There are many tasty vegan options if you want a dairy-free choice.
Is this salad suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, this salad is great for meal prepping. Here are some guidelines for prepping and storing:
- Use Airtight Containers: Store the ingredients in separate containers to keep them fresh.
- Dressing on the Side: Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat.
- Eat Within Three Days: For best flavor and texture, eat the salad within three days.
- Avoid Soggy Spinach: Don’t mix the spinach with the other ingredients until serving. This keeps it crisp and fresh.
You learned how to make a fresh and tasty salad with simple steps. We talked about using fresh spinach, strawberries, and chicken to create a colorful dish. The dressing adds great flavor and balance. Remember to store leftovers well to keep them fresh. You can even try different toppings or dressings to change it up. This salad is not only easy but also very versatile. Keep experimenting to find your favorite version and enjoy every bite!
