Are you craving a refreshing and healthy meal that's both quick to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further! This strawberry salad recipe with pecans is the perfect solution for a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or even a delightful dessert. It’s a beautiful blend of sweet strawberries, crunchy pecans, and a tangy vinaigrette – a delicious dish that's surprisingly easy to whip up. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a healthy and satisfying meal on the table fast, making it one of the best recipes for effortless homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
For the Vinaigrette:
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Toast the pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Let them cool completely before chopping. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor and satisfying crunch to your salad.
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Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. A simple vinaigrette elevates this already delicious salad to another level!
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Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, toasted pecans, and red onion.
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Dress and serve: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. If using, add the crumbled feta cheese just before serving. This prevents the feta from becoming soggy.
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Enjoy! Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips and Variations:
- For a sweeter salad: Add a few more tablespoons of honey or maple syrup to the vinaigrette.
- Add some protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would be delicious additions to this salad, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
- Make it a heartier salad: Include some mixed greens, such as romaine or butter lettuce, for added volume and nutrients.
- Other nuts: Walnuts or almonds can be substituted for pecans, offering a slightly different flavor profile.
- Citrus twist: A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice adds a bright, refreshing touch to the vinaigrette.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 3-5g
This strawberry salad recipe with pecans is a delightful and healthy choice for any occasion. It's one of those easy recipes that's both impressive and satisfying, making it a perfect addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas or healthy meals. Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful salad!