Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a salad that’s as fresh as a spring morning, let me introduce you to my berry spinach salad with pecans, feta, and balsamic glaze! This dish is bursting with vibrant colors and delightful flavors that make it not only a feast for the eyes but also a quick and healthy option for any meal. Seriously, it takes just 10 minutes to whip up! The sweet and tangy mixed berries pair perfectly with the creamy feta cheese, while the crunchy pecans add that satisfying texture. Drizzled with a luscious balsamic glaze, this salad is the perfect blend of health and indulgence. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on this deliciously simple salad!
Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the best berry spinach salad with pecans, feta, and balsamic glaze. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried thoroughly
- 1 cup mixed berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of flavor
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled, to add that creamy, tangy touch
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped, for a delightful crunch
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze, which brings all the flavors together with its sweet tanginess
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, to help dress the salad beautifully
- Salt and pepper to taste, enhancing every bite
These ingredients come together so effortlessly to create a salad that’s not just healthy, but absolutely delicious!
How to Prepare Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans Feta and Balsamic Glaze
Preparing this berry spinach salad with pecans, feta, and balsamic glaze is a breeze! Let’s break it down step by step so you can enjoy this vibrant dish in no time.
Step 1: Wash and Dry the Spinach
First things first, you’ll want to wash and dry your fresh spinach thoroughly. This step is crucial! If you skip this, excess moisture can make your salad soggy. I like to use a salad spinner to get it nice and dry, but you can also pat it down gently with a clean kitchen towel. No one wants a watery salad, right?
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine your beautifully washed spinach with the mixed berries, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped pecans. I recommend adding the spinach first, then layering the berries, feta, and pecans on top. This way, you can see all those gorgeous colors and textures! It makes for a stunning presentation before you even dress it.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Now comes the fun part! Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze over your salad. I like to do this slowly and in a circular motion to ensure even coverage. It really helps all those flavors meld together beautifully. You can adjust the amount of balsamic glaze based on how tangy you like your salad.
Step 4: Season the Salad
Next, it’s time to season with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a little sprinkle, then toss and taste. You can always add more, but it’s tough to take it out once it’s in there! This step is essential for enhancing all the fresh flavors, so don’t skip it!
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Finally, gently toss the salad using tongs or two large spoons. Be careful not to bruise the delicate spinach or squash the berries. You want everything to stay intact for that perfect bite! Serve immediately for the freshest experience; trust me, nothing beats that crisp, vibrant salad right after tossing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: Ready in just 10 minutes, perfect for busy days!
- Healthy ingredients: Packed with fresh spinach, berries, and wholesome nuts.
- Fresh flavors: A delightful mix of sweet, tangy, and savory in every bite.
- Perfect for gatherings: Impress your friends and family with this vibrant dish.
- Vegetarian-friendly: A delicious option for everyone at your table.
This berry spinach salad is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients that everyone can enjoy!
Tips for Success
To take your berry spinach salad with pecans, feta, and balsamic glaze to the next level, here are some of my favorite tips! First, always use fresh berries for the best flavor—trust me, you can taste the difference! If you have a few extra minutes, try toasting your pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until they’re golden and fragrant. This little step adds such an incredible crunch and depth of flavor!
Also, don’t be shy about adjusting the amount of balsamic glaze. Some folks love it tangy, while others prefer it a bit sweeter. Start with the recommended amount, then taste and tweak it to match your personal preference. Enjoy experimenting and making this salad your own!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this berry spinach salad with pecans, feta, and balsamic glaze! For a heartier meal, try adding grilled chicken or even shrimp for some protein. You can also mix in different nuts like walnuts or almonds for a unique crunch. If you want to get creative with the greens, feel free to toss in some arugula or kale for a peppery twist. And don’t forget about seasonal fruits—pears or apples can add a lovely sweetness! The possibilities are endless, so have fun making it your own!
Nutritional Information
This berry spinach salad with pecans, feta, and balsamic glaze is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrition! Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Of course, these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but it gives you a good idea of what you’re enjoying! It’s a wholesome, guilt-free choice that’s sure to satisfy.
FAQ Section
Got questions about my berry spinach salad with pecans, feta, and balsamic glaze? I’ve got answers! Let’s dive into some common queries.
How do I store leftovers? If you have any salad left, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. However, keep in mind that the spinach may wilt a bit, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you plan to make it ahead, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
Can I swap out the pecans? Absolutely! You can use walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds if you want a nut-free option. Each one adds a different flavor and texture, so feel free to get creative!
What can I use instead of feta cheese? If feta isn’t your thing, try goat cheese or even a dairy-free cheese alternative for a similar creamy texture without the tang. It will still taste fantastic!
How many servings does this recipe make? This recipe yields about 4 servings, perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner. If you’re serving a crowd, just double the recipe and watch it disappear!
These little tips and tricks will help you enjoy this salad to the fullest! If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to ask.
Print
Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans Feta and Balsamic Glaze Magic
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and healthy berry spinach salad with pecans, feta, and balsamic glaze.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and dry the spinach.
- In a large bowl, combine spinach, mixed berries, feta cheese, and pecans.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh berries for the best flavor.
- Toast pecans for extra crunch.
- Adjust the amount of balsamic glaze to your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: berry spinach salad, pecans, feta, balsamic glaze
