Name: Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Fresh Strawberries (Tops removed and quartered.); 1 each Red Apple (Core removed and chopped.); 1 each Green Apple (Core removed and chopped.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Chives (Chopped.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Cilantro (Chopped.); 3/4 cup Raspberry Vinaigrette Dressing; 10 oz Spring Mix or Baby Spinach Mix

Jump to Recipe Print it

When I think of fresh flavors and vibrant colors, nothing quite compares to a Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad. This salad was born out of a sunny afternoon picnic with friends, where we wanted something light yet satisfying. The sweet tartness of ripe strawberries perfectly complements the crispness of apples, and the greens provide a refreshing base. Every bite is a burst of flavor, reminding me of nature’s bounty. As I tossed the salad together, I couldn’t help but smile, knowing that such a simple combination could bring so much joy. Whether it’s a lazy weekend lunch or a potluck gathering, this salad is always a hit. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and looks stunning on any table. I find myself making it more often during spring when the ingredients are at their best. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife

What Makes This Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad Special

Vibrant Colors

The Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad is a feast for the eyes. The bright red of strawberries, the green of spinach, and the contrasting shades of apples create a visually appealing dish that entices everyone at the table. When food looks good, it elevates the dining experience, and this salad certainly delivers!

Fresh Ingredients

With every ingredient being fresh, you can really taste the difference. The combination of fresh strawberries, apples, and spinach not only makes this salad delicious but also packed with vitamins and nutrients. You know you’re doing your body a favor with each bite, and that’s a wonderful feeling.

Easy Preparation

One of the best parts about this salad is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can have a nutritious meal ready in no time. Whether you’re rushed after a long day or hosting guests, this salad comes together quickly and effortlessly.

Versatile Flavor Combinations

While the base of the Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad is delightful on its own, it leaves room for creativity. You can add nuts like pecans for crunch or even sprinkle some cheese for a creamy twist. Each variation brings a new flavor profile to the table, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a summer BBQ, a holiday gathering, or a simple weeknight dinner, this salad fits right in. It’s light enough for a side dish yet substantial as a main course. Its versatility makes it a go-to recipe for almost any event, and I often find myself serving it at gatherings.

Refreshing Taste

The combination of sweet and tart flavors in the Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad creates a refreshing taste that pairs well with almost anything. It balances hearty dishes, making it an excellent side for grilled meats or a standalone meal for lunch.

What to Buy for Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad

Choosing the right ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor in your Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad. Each component plays an important role, contributing to the overall taste and texture. The sweetness of the strawberries paired with the crunchiness of apples and the freshness of spinach creates a delightful mix that dances in your mouth. Let’s explore what you need to make this beautiful salad!

1 lb fresh strawberries – Sweet and juicy, these berries are the star of the salad. Make sure to choose berries that are firm and vibrant in color.
1 red apple – A crisp choice adds a nice crunch and a bit of tartness to balance the sweetness of the strawberries.
1 green apple – This adds a slightly different texture and flavor, making the salad even more interesting.
2 tablespoons fresh chives – For a mild onion flavor, finely chopped chives enhance the salad’s flavor profile.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro – Adding fresh cilantro contributes a refreshing taste that brightens the dish.
3/4 cup raspberry vinaigrette dressing – A tangy dressing is essential for tying all the flavors together and adds a lovely glossy finish.
10 oz spring mix or baby spinach mix – The greens provide a soft and tender base that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Directions for Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad

Making this salad is just as delightful as eating it! It’s a straightforward process that doesn’t involve any complicated cooking methods. Let’s get started!

Begin by preparing the strawberries. Wash them thoroughly under running water, and then remove the tops before quartering them. The strawberries should be vibrant and firm to ensure the best flavor. This is the first step in creating the flavorful base for your Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad.
Next, take your red apple and green apple. Core and chop them into bite-sized pieces. The crunchy texture of the apples contrasts beautifully with the softness of the strawberries. Make sure to use a sharp knife for a clean cut, which helps in retaining the apples’ freshness.
Now it’s time to add some flavor! In a large mixing bowl, combine the quartered strawberries, chopped red apple, and chopped green apple. Toss them gently to mix the fruits without bruising the strawberries.
Next, you’ll need to incorporate the flavor boosters. Add the chopped chives and cilantro to the fruit mixture. These herbs provide an aromatic lift and add depth to the overall flavor.
It’s time for the dressing! Pour in the raspberry vinaigrette dressing and gently mix everything together. Make sure each piece of fruit is well-coated. This step is crucial as it brings all the flavors together and gives the salad its signature taste.
In a separate bowl, add your spring mix or baby spinach mix. It’s important to use a fresh mix to ensure the greens are crisp. This will be the bed for your fruit mixture.
Once the fruit is well mixed with the dressing, pour it over the greens. Toss everything together gently so that the greens are covered lightly with the dressing and the fruits are evenly distributed.
For the final touch, serve the salad immediately to enjoy its freshness. If you’re preparing it ahead of time, cover it and refrigerate until ready to serve. However, I recommend serving it fresh to fully appreciate the flavors.
And there you have it! Your Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad is ready to be enjoyed. It’s great on its own, but you can pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a more hearty meal.

Things Worth Knowing

Freshness Matters: Using fresh ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor. Buy seasonal produce when possible for the most vibrant taste.
Dress Right Before Serving: To keep the salad crisp, add dressing right before serving. This prevents the greens from wilting and ensures a refreshing crunch.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the salad without the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add dressing when ready to eat.
Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding nuts or cheese for variety. Ingredients like pecans, feta, or blue cheese can elevate the taste profile.

Substitutions and Tips

While this Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad is delightful as it is, here are some tips to enhance or adapt the recipe:

Storage: To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container without dressing. The salad can last in the fridge for up to two days.
Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze this salad as the texture of the greens will change upon thawing.
Pairing: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile option for lunch or dinner.
Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to experiment with different dressings. A lemon vinaigrette or honey mustard can add exciting flavors.
Make It a Meal: Add your favorite protein like chickpeas or grilled shrimp to transform this side salad into a satisfying main dish.
Seasonal Variations: Depending on the season, you can add other fruits like peaches or pomegranates to switch things up.

Perfect Matches for Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad

When serving the Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad, consider the following suggestions to make your meal complete:

Grilled Chicken: Pairing this salad with grilled chicken adds protein and turns it into a fulfilling meal.
Sandwiches: This salad complements sandwiches beautifully, whether it’s a classic club or a veggie wrap.
Picnic Baskets: Perfect for outdoor gatherings, this salad is a refreshing addition to any picnic spread, offering a light and healthy option.
Buffet Style: Serve it at a buffet alongside other dishes. Its beautiful colors and freshness attract everyone!
Seasonal Occasions: Ideal for spring and summer gatherings, this salad fits well in any warm-weather celebration.
Light Lunches: Enjoy this salad as a light lunch option, especially during busy days when you want something nutritious without too much fuss.

FAQ

The Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad is refreshing due to the combination of sweet strawberries and crisp apples combined with fresh greens. The juicy fruits contrast with the greens to create a light yet satisfying dish. The raspberry vinaigrette dressing adds a tangy finish that enhances the freshness, making it a perfect choice for warm days.

Yes, you can prepare the Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad ahead of time! However, to maintain the freshness of the greens, I recommend storing the dressing separately. You can mix the greens and fruits together and keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. Add the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp.

There are many fun variations you can try with the Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad. Adding nuts like pecans or walnuts can enhance the texture and flavor. You might also consider including cheese, like crumbled feta or goat cheese, for a creamier taste. Additionally, swapping out the dressing for a honey mustard or balsamic vinaigrette can give the salad a different twist!

The Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad is great for meal prep! Just remember to add the dressing right before eating. You can prepare the fruits and greens in advance and store them separately to keep them fresh. This way, you can enjoy a nutritious salad throughout the week without sacrificing quality or taste.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Apple Spinach Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it a standout dish. Its simplicity and versatility mean you can enjoy it any time of year, whether as a light lunch or a side dish at a gathering. I encourage you to try it—once you do, it might just become your favorite go-to salad!