Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese is a fresh and bright mix of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors all in one bowl. The crisp spinach leaves provide a perfect green base, while juicy strawberries add a splash of color and natural sweetness. Soft, crumbly goat cheese brings a lovely tang that balances the fruit and greens beautifully.
I love making this salad when strawberries are in season because the flavors feel so vibrant and fresh. A little tip I’ve found helpful is to toss the salad gently just before serving to keep the spinach from wilting and the goat cheese from melting too much. The combination of textures—from tender spinach to juicy berries to creamy cheese—is what makes this salad so enjoyable every time.
This salad works great as a light lunch on its own or as a bright side dish at dinner. I often add some toasted nuts like almonds or pecans for a nice crunch, and a simple balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together nicely. It’s one of those salads that everyone asks for again because it feels both healthy and special in the best way.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is tender and mild, perfect for salads. If you can’t find baby spinach, baby kale or arugula work well too, just expect a slightly different flavor and texture.
Strawberries: Ripe, sweet strawberries bring juicy color and sweetness. If strawberries aren’t in season, try using fresh raspberries or sliced grapes for a similar burst of fruity flavor.
Goat Cheese: The creamy tang of goat cheese adds richness. For a milder taste or dairy-free option, you can use feta, cream cheese, or a plant-based cheese alternative.
Toasted Nuts: Pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch and nuttiness. Feel free to swap with sliced almonds, pistachios, or sunflower seeds for variety or allergies.
Balsamic Vinaigrette: Balsamic vinegar pairs beautifully with the sweetness of strawberries. If you don’t have balsamic, apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar mixed with a touch of honey will work too.
How Can I Keep My Salad Fresh and Crispy?
Salads with soft ingredients like spinach and strawberries can wilt or get soggy fast. Here’s how to keep your salad fresh:
- Wash and dry spinach thoroughly—moisture makes it soggy.
- Add dressing just before serving to avoid sogginess.
- Toss the salad gently but quickly to distribute dressing without bruising.
- Use firm, ripe strawberries, and slice them right before adding to the salad.
These simple steps help maintain the crispness and bright flavors, giving you a refreshing salad every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large salad bowl – big enough to toss the spinach and strawberries gently without bruising.
- Sharp knife – for easily slicing strawberries into neat pieces.
- Cutting board – a stable surface for prepping your fruit and nuts.
- Small bowl or jar – perfect for whisking or shaking the dressing to blend flavors well.
- Salad tongs or large spoons – helps you toss the salad gently so the ingredients stay fresh.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp to turn this into a filling meal with protein.
- Swap goat cheese for feta or blue cheese for a different tangy flavor.
- Try adding avocado slices for creaminess and healthy fats.
- Mix in fresh herbs like basil or mint to brighten the salad with an herbal note.
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach leaves, washed and dried
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced in halves or quarters
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is quick to prepare—about 10 minutes total. Most of your time will be washing and cutting the strawberries, plus mixing the dressing. It’s a fresh dish you can toss together quickly just before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Base:
In a large salad bowl, place the fresh baby spinach leaves. Add the sliced strawberries on top. If you like a little crunch, sprinkle on toasted pecans or walnuts now.
2. Add the Cheese:
Crumble the goat cheese evenly over the salad, spreading it out for even bites throughout the dish.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake well until smooth and blended.
4. Dress and Toss the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Gently toss the salad with salad tongs or large spoons to coat the spinach and strawberries without bruising them.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately as a refreshing starter or a light side dish. This salad is bright, fresh, and perfect for spring or summer meals.
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries in This Salad?
It’s best to use fresh strawberries because frozen ones tend to be watery and mushy when thawed. If you only have frozen, thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding to the salad.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting. The salad is best eaten within a day.
Can I Substitute the Goat Cheese?
Yes! Feta cheese or ricotta salata make great alternatives that still add a tangy, creamy flavor. For a dairy-free option, try a vegan cheese or omit cheese altogether and add extra nuts for texture.
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can whisk the dressing ingredients together and store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or stir before using.
