If you are craving a vibrant and fresh salad that perfectly balances sweet, crunchy, tangy, and creamy elements, then this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pistachios, Feta, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Each bite bursts with the juicy sweetness of ripe strawberries paired with the satisfying crunch of roasted pistachios, all harmonized by the creamy feta and a luscious balsamic vinaigrette that brings everything together beautifully. It’s not just a salad; it’s an experience that feels light yet deeply satisfying—a perfect way to brighten up your meal or enjoy a wholesome snack.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl holds a pile of fresh strawberries, some whole with bright red, shiny skin and green leafy tops, and some sliced in half revealing their juicy red flesh and lighter inner core. Around the bowl, three whole strawberries are scattered on a white marbled surface, adding depth to the scene. The bowl is placed in the center with the strawberries vibrant and textured against the neutral background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to making this salad sing. Each component plays a role in creating a dish that is colorful, flavorful, and perfectly textured.

Spinach mix (5 ounces): Choose fresh, tender spinach or a leafy greens blend for a vibrant base packed with nutrients.
Fresh strawberries (8 ounces, halved): Sweet and juicy, these add a pop of color and natural sweetness that brightens the salad.
Red onion (½ small, thinly sliced): Adds a mild, sharp crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of strawberries.
Roasted salted pistachios (¾ cup, coarsely chopped): These provide a crunchy texture and a salty note essential for balance.
Feta crumbles (½ cup): Creamy and tangy, feta elevates the salad with its rich, savory flavor.
Balsamic vinaigrette (2 tablespoons): A tangy and slightly sweet dressing that ties all the flavors together seamlessly.

How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pistachios, Feta, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the greens and fruit

Start by placing your fresh spinach mix in a large salad bowl. Then, add the halved strawberries, making sure they’re evenly spread to give each bite that sweet surprise. The freshness here really sets the tone for the whole salad.

Step 2: Add the onions and nuts

Next, sprinkle in the thinly sliced red onion and coarsely chopped roasted salted pistachios. The onion brings a little zest while the pistachios add wonderful crunch and a touch of saltiness that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.

Step 3: Sprinkle the feta crumbles

Generously scatter the feta cheese over the salad. The creamy texture of the feta is the perfect counterpoint to the crunchy nuts and crisp greens. It also adds a lovely tanginess that enhances every bite.

Step 4: Dress and toss

Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the entire salad. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every leaf and ingredient gets coated in that luscious, tangy dressing. This step wakes up all the flavors and brings harmony to the dish.

How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pistachios, Feta, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe

A white bowl filled with a colorful salad sits on a white marbled surface. The salad has many layers: dark red and green leafy greens form the base, topped with bright red sliced strawberries, thin slices of purple onion, crumbled white cheese, and chopped light green nuts sprinkled on top. The textures range from fresh and leafy to smooth and crumbly. A silver fork is placed inside the bowl, resting on the greens. Around the bowl are whole strawberries and scattered pieces of nuts. In the background, a second white bowl holds brown dressing with a silver spoon inside. A soft white cloth with black stripes is partly visible beside the bowls. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch of elegance, add a few whole pistachios or extra feta crumbles on top right before serving. You can also sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper or a tiny drizzle of honey for some added depth.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with simple grilled chicken or salmon to make a complete meal. The freshness and brightness of the salad complement the richness of grilled proteins perfectly. Alternatively, serve it alongside warm crusty bread or a light soup for a satisfying lunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve this salad in individual glass bowls or layer it in a clear jar to showcase the vibrant colors. You could also add edible flowers on top for a party-worthy aesthetic. The key is to celebrate the salad’s natural beauty while making it accessible and fun to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pistachios, Feta, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. To keep the greens crisp, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad as the fresh ingredients and dressing will lose their texture and flavor upon thawing. For the best experience, enjoy it fresh or within a day of preparation.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature and is not suitable for reheating. Simply give it a gentle toss after refrigeration and add any fresh dressing if needed to refresh the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use baby kale instead of spinach?

Absolutely! Baby kale is a great substitute that adds a slightly earthier flavor and a bit more chew, which can be delightful alongside the sweet strawberries and crunchy pistachios.

What type of balsamic vinegar is best for the vinaigrette?

Choose a good-quality, well-aged balsamic vinegar for the best depth of flavor. It will bring that perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess to your dressing without overpowering the other ingredients.

Are raw pistachios okay to use?

While you can use raw pistachios, roasted salted pistachios offer a better crunch and flavor punch. If using raw, consider roasting and salting them yourself for optimal taste.

Can I make this salad vegan-friendly?

Yes! Simply swap the feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or omit it entirely. The salad will still be delicious and packed with flavor.

How long does the salad keep after dressing is added?

Once dressed, it’s best to consume the salad immediately or within a few hours. The spinach and other delicate ingredients start to wilt and become soggy if left too long after tossing with vinaigrette.

Final Thoughts

This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pistachios, Feta, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe is such a joyful explosion of fresh flavors and textures. It’s incredibly easy to make but feels special enough to impress your guests or elevate your everyday meals. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this salad as much as I do. It’s a vibrant reminder that healthy food can also be unbelievably delicious and fun!