Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze

If you’re looking for a salad that’s vibrant, delicious, and easy to whip up any day of the week, then this Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze is just what you need! This salad has become a staple in my home for its refreshing flavors and delightful crunch. It showcases fresh berries and hearty greens, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone can dig in and enjoy.

What I love most about this salad is how versatile it is. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue or as a light lunch during the week, it’s sure to impress. Plus, the combination of sweet berries and tangy feta topped with a luscious balsamic glaze is simply irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 25 minutes, you can have this stunning salad ready to serve!
• Family-friendly: With its colorful ingredients and delicious flavors, everyone will want a second helping.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prep the ingredients earlier in the day and toss them together right before serving.
• Packed with nutrients: This salad is not only tasty but also rich in vitamins and antioxidants from the fresh produce.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite toppings or swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Berry Spinach Salad features simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh Produce

• 6 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 cup fresh strawberries (sliced)
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)

Toppings

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup pecans (toasted)

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup balsamic for the glaze
• 2 tbsp honey (optional)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier option.
• Change up the greens: Mix in arugula or kale for an extra flavor boost.
• Go nut-free: Swap out pecans for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds if allergies are a concern.
• Experiment with cheese: Try goat cheese instead of feta for a different twist.

How to Make Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, blueberries, red onion, and toasted pecans. This step creates a beautiful medley of colors and textures that makes this salad so appealing. The spinach provides a fresh base while the berries add sweetness.

Step 2: Add the Feta

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of your salad mixture. The creamy feta complements the juicy fruits perfectly while adding a savory element to balance out the sweetness of the berries.

Step 3: Make the Balsamic Glaze

For the balsamic glaze, heat balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer until it reduces by half and thickens slightly. If you choose to add honey for extra sweetness, stir it in at this point. Letting it cool will enhance its flavors even more.

Step 4: Drizzle and Serve

Just before serving, drizzle your homemade balsamic glaze over the salad. This final touch elevates your dish with rich flavor that ties everything together beautifully. Toss gently if desired, then dig in!

Enjoy this Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze as a refreshing addition to any meal!

Pro Tips for Making Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze

Elevate your Berry Spinach Salad with these simple yet effective tips to ensure it’s bursting with flavor and texture!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe berries make all the difference in taste. Try to select organic produce when possible, as it enhances flavor and nutritional value.

• Toast the pecans: Toasting your pecans brings out their natural oils and adds a delightful crunch that complements the salad beautifully. Simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

• Make the balsamic glaze in advance: Preparing the glaze ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together. You can store any leftover glaze in a jar in the refrigerator for up to a week!

• Experiment with different cheeses: While feta is delicious, trying other cheeses like goat cheese or even vegan alternatives can add new dimensions to your salad.

• Add protein for a filling meal: If you want to turn this salad into a complete meal, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.

How to Serve Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze

Serving your Berry Spinach Salad beautifully can transform a simple dish into something special! Here are some ideas to elevate its presentation.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh mint or basil can add a pop of color and an aromatic touch that complements the berries.
• Edible flowers: Adding edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies not only enhances visual appeal but also introduces unique flavors.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: This fluffy dish made with quinoa, mixed vegetables, and herbs provides a hearty complement to the lightness of your salad.
• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers featuring seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes add a smoky flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the salad.
• Hummus Platter: A vibrant platter of hummus served with pita chips and raw veggies makes for a nutritious pairing that keeps things light yet satisfying.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with the tanginess of feta and balsamic glaze while offering great texture.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions at your fingertips, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your delicious Berry Spinach Salad! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately, making it easy to enjoy a fresh salad throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It’s best to store the dressing separately to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
• Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the fresh ingredients.
• Instead, consider preparing the components separately and freezing non-perishable items, like pecans.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
• If you’ve prepared warm ingredients (like roasted pecans), let them cool before adding them to your salad.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble just before serving. Store the dressing separately to keep everything fresh.

What can I substitute for feta in the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze?

If you’re looking for a vegan option or a dairy-free substitute, try using crumbled tofu or a plant-based feta alternative that suits your taste!

How do I adjust the sweetness of the balsamic glaze in my Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze?

You can add more honey if you prefer a sweeter glaze or reduce the amount for a more tangy flavor. Adjust according to your preference!

Can I add other fruits to my Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze?

Definitely! Feel free to include other berries like raspberries or blackberries for added flavor and variety.

Is this Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze suitable for special diets?

Yes! This salad is vegetarian-friendly and can easily be made vegan by omitting feta or using a substitute.

Final Thoughts

This Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze is not only vibrant and nutritious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re prepping for a picnic or looking for a light lunch option at home, this salad will surely delight your taste buds. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Remember to share your creation with friends and family—happy cooking!