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Close-up overhead view of a fresh strawberry spinach salad with walnuts and feta in a white bowl.

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Sweet and Spicy Walnuts

A vibrant and refreshing salad featuring fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy, homemade sweet and spicy walnuts, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or an elegant side dish.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Contemporary
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sweet and Spicy Walnuts
  • 1 cup Walnut halves
  • 2 tbsp Maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp Brown sugar packed
  • 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • 1 tbsp Butter melted
For the Balsamic Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil extra virgin
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp Honey
  • 1/2 clove Garlic minced (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • 1/8 tsp Black pepper freshly ground
For the Salad
  • 5 oz Fresh spinach washed and dried
  • 2 cups Strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 1/2 cup Feta cheese crumbled
  • 1/4 cup Red onion thinly sliced (optional)

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Small Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Small jar with lid (optional)

Method
 

Prepare the Sweet and Spicy Walnuts
  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Add the walnut halves and melted butter, tossing to coat them evenly.
  4. Spread the coated walnuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until fragrant and lightly caramelized. Be careful not to burn them.
  6. Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet. They will crisp up as they cool.
Make the Balsamic Vinaigrette
  1. In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic (if using), salt, and black pepper until well emulsified.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If using a jar, simply shake vigorously to combine.
Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion (if using).
  2. Just before serving, drizzle the desired amount of balsamic vinaigrette over the salad ingredients.
  3. Add the cooled sweet and spicy walnuts.
  4. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

The sweet and spicy walnuts can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. The balsamic vinaigrette can also be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; shake well before use. For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon.