Irresistible Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze
If you’re looking to elevate your salad game, look no further than this Irresistible Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze. Packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavors, this salad is perfect for a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or even a refreshing dinner. Here’s how to make this delicious and nutritious salad that will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
6 cups fresh spinach leaves
1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup pecans, toasted
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup balsamic glaze
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Spinach: Start by washing and drying the fresh spinach leaves. Place them in a large salad bowl as the base of your salad.
Add the Berries: Rinse the mixed berries and pat them dry. Slice the strawberries if they are large. Add the berries to the bowl with the spinach.
Toast the Pecans: In a small skillet, toast the pecans over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Once toasted, let them cool slightly before adding them to the salad.
Slice the Onion: Thinly slice the red onion and add it to the bowl. The onion adds a nice crunch and a bit of sharpness to balance the sweetness of the berries.
Add the Feta: Crumble the feta cheese over the top of the salad. Feta adds a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
Dress the Salad: Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, then add the balsamic glaze. The balsamic glaze provides a sweet and tangy finish that ties all the flavors together.
Season and Toss: Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are well mixed and coated with the dressing.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite.
Why You’ll Love It
This Berry Spinach Salad is a fantastic blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The fresh berries provide a burst of sweetness, the pecans add a satisfying crunch, the feta cheese offers creamy tanginess, and the balsamic glaze ties everything together with its rich, sweet acidity. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
Tips for Success
Customize Your Berries: Use any combination of berries you like. Blackberries and pomegranate seeds also make great additions.
Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Homemade Balsamic Glaze: If you can’t find balsamic glaze, make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar on the stove until it thickens.
This Irresistible Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual lunches to elegant dinners. Give it a try and enjoy a burst of summer flavors any time of the year! #healthyeating #saladlove #berrygood #foodiefavorites