Summer salad with strawberries and spinach

Summer Salad with Strawberries and Spinach

When we talk about summer salads, combining fresh flavors and vibrant ingredients is essential to create dishes that delight our senses. The summer salad with strawberries and spinach is undoubtedly one of the most cherished recipes, and not without reason! This salad blends the sweetness of strawberries with the crunchy texture of pecans and the creaminess of gorgonzola cheese, resulting in a mix of flavors that will transform any meal into a feast. Perfect for warm days, picnics, or relaxing evenings, this salad is a true culinary indulgence.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 4 healthy handfuls of fresh spinach (approximately 200g)
- 200g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 120g gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 70g pecans, lightly toasted
- 100g extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1-2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Croutons (optional)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the dressing: Start by combining balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, mustard, salt, and pepper in a blender. Blend on low speed, gradually adding the olive oil. Continue blending until the dressing is smooth. Taste to check if it suits your preference, adjusting the seasonings as needed. Once finished, set the dressing aside.

2. Assembling the salad: In a large bowl, add the spinach leaves, then pour a few tablespoons of the prepared dressing. Mix well to coat the spinach leaves with the dressing.

3. Adding the ingredients: Continue by adding the sliced strawberries, gorgonzola cheese, red onion, toasted pecans, avocado slices, and if desired, croutons. Gently toss to combine all the ingredients, being careful not to mash the avocado slices.

4. Serving: Divide the salad into individual servings or serve it on a large platter. You can add extra dressing at the table in a small bowl, allowing everyone to adjust the amount to their liking. If you have leftover dressing, you can store it in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Serving suggestions and combinations:

This summer salad with strawberries and spinach pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or fish at picnics, but also serves as an elegant appetizer for festive dinners. You can accompany it with fresh lemonade or a light white wine to complete the culinary experience.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

This salad is not only delicious but also healthy! Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants, while strawberries provide a rich supply of vitamin C and fiber. Pecans offer healthy fats and protein, and gorgonzola cheese adds a boost of calcium. A serving of salad contains approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the amount of dressing and croutons used.

Possible variations:

If you want to diversify this recipe, you can try replacing gorgonzola with feta or goat cheese for a different taste. Additionally, you can add seasonal fruits such as peaches or raspberries for an extra flavor boost. Replacing pecans with macadamia nuts or almonds can provide an interesting texture.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen spinach?
It is preferable to use fresh spinach to achieve a crunchy texture and vibrant flavor.

- What type of oil can I use instead of olive oil?
You can use avocado oil or nut oil if you want a different flavor.

- How can I keep the salad from getting soggy?
It is recommended to keep the dressing separate and add it only before serving to maintain the crispness of the spinach leaves.

A personal note:

Every time I prepare this salad, I am reminded of the summers spent in the garden, where strawberries were picked fresh from my grandmother's patch. This recipe is not just a meal; it is a journey back in time to simple, joyful moments. I encourage you to try it and share this experience with your loved ones!

Feel free to experiment with this recipe, add your favorite ingredients, and create a summer salad with strawberries and spinach that becomes your favorite too!