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As the days grow longer and warmer, the desire for light and refreshing meals becomes paramount. The Refreshing Summer Strawberry Spinach Salad is a vibrant dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of summer. This salad is a delightful medley of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for picnics, barbecues, or simply as a healthy weeknight dinner. Its bright colors and refreshing ingredients not only tantalize the taste buds but also provide a nutritional boost that aligns with seasonal eating.

Summer Strawberry Spinach Salad

Explore the vibrant flavors of summer with this Refreshing Summer Strawberry Spinach Salad. Perfect for picnics or light dinners, this dish combines sweet strawberries with nutrient-rich baby spinach, crumbled feta, and crunchy toasted nuts. Easy to prepare, it serves as a delightful main or side. Tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing, it’s a nutritious and visually appealing addition to any meal. Enjoy the essence of seasonal eating while indulging your taste buds with this colorful salad.
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Ingredients
  

5 cups fresh baby spinach, thoroughly washed and dried

2 cups ripe strawberries, hulled and sliced

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion

1/4 cup toasted pecans (or walnuts, for a different nutty flavor)

1/4 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan alternative)

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Salad Base: Start by placing the washed and dried baby spinach into a large, spacious salad bowl. Ensuring it's completely dry will help maintain the salad’s crispness.

    Add the Strawberries: Next, evenly layer the sliced strawberries over the spinach. Their rich red hue not only enhances the visual presentation but also contributes a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the greens.

      Incorporate Other Ingredients: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese, sliced red onion, and toasted pecans uniformly over the top of the salad. This combination will introduce a variety of textures and flavors to each bite.

        Make the Dressing: In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Shake or whisk vigorously until the mixture is well combined and has a smooth, emulsified consistency.

          Dress the Salad: When you’re ready to serve, drizzle the dressing across the entire salad. Gently toss the salad with a pair of tongs to ensure all ingredients are coated without damaging the delicate spinach or strawberries.

            Serve and Enjoy: Divide the salad into individual serving plates or serve directly from the bowl. For a beautiful touch, consider topping each serving with a few extra pecans or crumbles of feta cheese as a garnish.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4-6

                - Presentation Tips: Use colorful serving dishes to enhance the vibrant appearance of the salad. Consider a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or mint for an aromatic garnish. Enjoy this refreshing dish as a light lunch or as a side at your summer gatherings!