Strawberry Vinaigrette Salad

Looking for a salad that bursts with flavor and freshness? This baby spinach salad topped with sliced strawberries, blue cheese, and a homemade strawberry vinaigrette is just the thing. It combines vibrant colors and textures, making it an eye-catching dish perfect for any occasion.

The combination of sweet, juicy strawberries with the sharpness of blue cheese creates a delightful contrast, while the crunchy peanuts add an unexpected twist. Toss it all together with a light and tangy vinaigrette, and you’ve got a salad that’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying.

This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. It’s packed with nutrients, and the fresh ingredients will leave you feeling revitalized.

Ingredients for a Vibrant Salad

Building a salad that bursts with flavor requires fresh and quality ingredients. For this delightful dish, you’ll need bright green baby spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, crumbled blue cheese, and chopped peanuts. Each ingredient contributes to the overall texture and taste.

The baby spinach serves as a tender base, while the strawberries add a sweet and juicy burst. Crumbled blue cheese provides a sharp contrast, and the peanuts introduce a satisfying crunch. Together, they create a harmonious blend of flavors.

Creating the Strawberry Vinaigrette

The homemade strawberry vinaigrette is what makes this salad truly special. Combining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey creates a dressing that is both tangy and mildly sweet.

Whisk together these ingredients with a pinch of salt and pepper to bring out the flavors. A good vinaigrette will not only coat the salad but also enhance the freshness of each component. This adds a delightful finishing touch.

Assembling the Salad

Once the vinaigrette is ready, it’s time to assemble the salad. Begin by placing the fresh baby spinach in a large bowl. Layer on the sliced strawberries, followed by the crumbled blue cheese and chopped peanuts.

When all the ingredients are in place, drizzle the strawberry vinaigrette over the top. Gently toss the salad to ensure each leaf is coated with the dressing, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

This salad serves as an excellent side dish or a light meal option. Its vibrant colors and appealing presentation make it perfect for gatherings or casual lunches.

To elevate the experience, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or seafood, which pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the salad. For an added touch, sprinkle a few extra peanuts on top for garnish.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Spinach is rich in vitamins A and C, while strawberries provide antioxidants and dietary fiber. The blue cheese adds calcium, and peanuts are a good source of protein and healthy fats.

With a total of approximately 220 calories per serving, it’s a wholesome option that supports a balanced diet. Enjoying this salad can contribute to a refreshing way to incorporate more greens into your meals.

Presentation and Enjoyment

The final presentation is just as important as the ingredients themselves. Serve the salad in a rustic wooden bowl or on a wooden table to enhance its warm and inviting appearance.

The pink strawberry vinaigrette beautifully contrasts with the vibrant greens and reds, making it a feast for the eyes. This salad is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience to share and enjoy with family and friends.

A Flavor-Packed Spinach Salad with Homemade Vinaigrette

This refreshing salad features tender baby spinach leaves, crunchy sliced strawberries, and rich blue cheese crumbles, all topped with a delightful homemade strawberry vinaigrette. The taste is a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and nutty with a tangy finish from the dressing.

Ingredients

• 4 cups baby spinach, washed and dried
• 1 cup sliced strawberries, hulled
• 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, add the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, blue cheese, and chopped peanuts.
3. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the homemade strawberry vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve: Enjoy immediately as a refreshing side dish or light meal.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 220kcal
• Fat: 16g
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 18g