Name: Strawberry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Candied Pecans:; 2 tbsp butter; 1 cup pecans; 2 tbsp brown sugar; Salad:; 6 oz spinach leaves; 1 ½ cups strawberries, stems removed; ¼ cup goat cheese (or feta cheese, if desired); Balsamic vinaigrette (Litehouse dressing recommended)

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This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans is a refreshing, sweet, and savory dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side to any main course. With the perfect balance of fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy candied pecans, it’s a delightful salad that can be made in just 10 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also packed with vibrant flavors and textures. The sweetness of the strawberries and candied pecans contrasts beautifully with the earthy spinach and creamy goat cheese. The balsamic vinaigrette adds a tangy kick that ties everything together. It’s a perfect dish for a sunny afternoon, a BBQ, or even a healthy snack. Plus, it’s customizable—swap the goat cheese for feta, or add a handful of other nuts if you prefer. Strawberry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans

Ingredients

2 tbsp butter
1 cup pecans
2 tbsp brown sugar
6 oz spinach leaves
1 1/2 cups strawberries, stems removed
1/4 cup goat cheese (or feta cheese, if desired)
Balsamic vinaigrette (Litehouse dressing recommended)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Candied Pecans:

Melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and brown sugar, stirring to coat the pecans evenly.
Cook for about 3 minutes, until the sugar begins to caramelize. Be sure to stir occasionally to avoid burning the sugar.
Spread the pecans out on a wax paper-lined baking sheet to cool.

Assemble the Salad:

In a salad bowl, layer the spinach leaves, strawberries, goat cheese, and candied pecans.

Serve:

Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving.
Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

Cheese: You can swap the goat cheese for feta cheese, blue cheese, or even a mild cheese like mozzarella for a different flavor.
Nuts: If you prefer, you can substitute the pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even cashews for a different twist.
Add-ins: Try adding other fruits like apples, oranges, or pears for added variety and sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: The salad is best served fresh, but you can store leftover components (dressing, pecans, and cheese) separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble the salad right before serving to keep the spinach and strawberries fresh.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this salad. If you’d like to enjoy it cold, store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of nuts?

Yes, feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or cashews, depending on your preference.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time (slice the strawberries, make the candied pecans, etc.), but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the spinach fresh.

3. Can I use a different type of dressing?

Yes, you can use any type of vinaigrette or dressing you like. A honey mustard dressing or lemon vinaigrette would also pair nicely.

4. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, just make sure the dressing you use is also gluten-free.

5. Can I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, you can omit the cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.

6. Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would be a great addition for a more filling meal.

7. Can I make the candied pecans in advance?

Yes, you can make the candied pecans ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to a week.

8. How can I make the dressing from scratch?

To make balsamic vinaigrette from scratch, whisk together 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 1/2 cup olive oil, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

9. How do I prevent the pecans from sticking together after they cool?

To prevent clumping, make sure to spread the candied pecans out on a lined baking sheet to cool in a single layer.

10. Can I add other veggies to the salad?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like cucumbers, carrots, or even avocado for extra texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans is the perfect combination of sweetness, creaminess, and crunch. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a light yet satisfying salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a side dish for dinner, or something to bring to a gathering, this salad is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and bold flavors. Enjoy it as is or customize it with your favorite ingredients!

Emma

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients