Irresistible Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze

If you’re craving a salad that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors and a delightful crunch, the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze is your new go-to. This dish combines sweet berries, tangy feta cheese, and toasted pecans all tossed with leafy spinach and finished with a luscious balsamic glaze. It’s more than just a side salad; it’s a perfectly balanced, healthy meal packed with color, texture, and nutrition that’s sure to brighten any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Sweet and Savory Blend: The combination of juicy berries and tangy feta creates a mouthwatering flavor contrast that keeps every bite exciting.
• Crunchy Texture: Toasted pecans add a satisfying crunch that enhances the overall salad experience.
• Nutritious and Wholesome: Loaded with fresh spinach and antioxidants from berries, this salad is as healthy as it is flavorful.
• Quick and Easy to Prepare: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make this dish accessible even on busy days.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekday lunch or a holiday dinner, this salad fits seamlessly into your meal plans.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients ensures that the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze turns out fresh and flavorful every time. Each item is chosen not only for taste but also for texture and color to make your salad visually stunning and deliciously balanced.

• Fresh baby spinach: Provides a tender and nutrient-rich leafy base that pairs perfectly with the toppings.
• Mixed fresh berries: A juicy blend of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds natural sweetness and vibrant colors.
• Crumbled feta cheese: Offers creamy, tangy notes that contrast beautifully with the berries.
• Toasted pecans: Adds a deep, nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the salad.
• Balsamic glaze: Drizzled on top, it delivers a rich, slightly sweet tanginess to tie all elements together.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Used in the dressing to bring smoothness and a subtle fruity undertone.
• Honey or maple syrup: A touch of natural sweetness in the dressing to complement the berries.
• Fresh lemon juice: Provides brightness to balance the flavors in the salad dressing.
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper: To enhance and harmonize all tastes.

Variations for Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze

One of the best things about this Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze is how easy it is to customize based on what you love or have on hand. Below are some creative ways to make this salad your own while keeping its irresistible core intact.

• Switch up the nuts: Try walnuts, almonds, or even candied pecans for varied crunch and flavor experiences.
• Go dairy-free: Replace feta with dairy-free cheese or skip it entirely for a vegan-friendly version.
• Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas to turn the salad into a complete meal.
• Use different greens: Substitute baby kale, arugula, or mixed greens for spinach to keep things fresh.
• Experiment with berries: Seasonal or frozen berries like blackberries, cranberries, or cherries work beautifully too.

How to Make Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Start by washing and thoroughly drying the baby spinach and berries. Slice larger berries like strawberries into bite-sized pieces to create balanced sizes for easy eating.

Step 2: Toast the pecans

Lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they release a fragrant aroma. This step enhances their flavor and crunch.

Step 3: Make the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic glaze, honey or maple syrup, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Toss the salad

In a large bowl, gently combine spinach, berries, toasted pecans, and crumbled feta. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss lightly to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Drizzle with extra balsamic glaze

For added elegance and concentrated flavor, drizzle additional balsamic glaze on top just before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze

• Select fresh spinach: Choose bright green baby spinach leaves without bruising for the best texture and flavor.
• Dry ingredients thoroughly: Excess moisture on berries or greens can dilute the dressing and make the salad soggy.
• Toast nuts carefully: Keep an eye on pecans as they can burn quickly but need just enough heat to bring out their aroma.
• Use high-quality balsamic glaze: A richer glaze makes a huge difference in flavor balance.
• Dress right before serving: Toss the salad with dressing just before serving to maintain crispness and freshness.

How to Serve Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze

Garnishes

Top your salad with extra whole berries, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint or basil, or a few additional toasted pecans to create an inviting presentation and add a fresh aroma.

Side Dishes

This berry spinach salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, salmon, or a light pasta dish, making it an excellent complement that brings refreshing brightness to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in clear glass bowls to showcase the vibrant colors, or create individual salad cups for a stunning appetizer at gatherings and parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze fresh, store the salad without dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add dressing and toss just before enjoying.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh; freezing is not recommended as wilted greens and watery berries affect texture and flavor negatively.

Reheating

Since this salad is served cold and fresh, reheating is unnecessary. Simply toss leftovers together again with fresh dressing if needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

While fresh berries offer the best texture and flavor, frozen berries can be thawed and drained for this salad but may release more liquid, so be sure to pat them dry well.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

It can be made vegan by replacing feta with a plant-based cheese or omitting it entirely and ensuring the balsamic glaze has no animal-derived ingredients.

How long does the salad last once dressed?

Once dressed, the salad is best enjoyed immediately; if stored, eat within a few hours to avoid sogginess.

Can I prepare the dressing in advance?

Yes! The dressing can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge, then whisked again before drizzling over the salad.

What other nuts work well instead of pecans?

Walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios are great alternatives that provide a different flavor and crunch profile.

Final Thoughts

You’ll find that the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze is not just a recipe but a celebration of fresh, simple ingredients coming together in the most delicious way. Give it a try for a healthy, colorful, and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Once you taste this perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy, you’ll be hooked!

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