Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze

Name: Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups fresh spinach leaves; 1 cup fresh strawberries (sliced); 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/2 cup toasted pecans; 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion; 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tbsp honey (optional)

Published: September 9, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy days.
Fresh and Flavorful: The mix of berries and spinach offers a burst of freshness in every bite.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a main course by adding grilled chicken or turkey.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from spinach and antioxidants from berries, this salad is as healthy as it is delicious.
Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors will make your table look stunning and appetizing.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze effortlessly, you’ll need some essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Small saucepan
Whisk
Cutting board
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spills.
Small saucepan: Essential for making the balsamic glaze; it helps achieve the right consistency by reducing the vinegar effectively.
Whisk: Perfect for stirring the balsamic glaze to ensure even blending and prevent burning.

Ingredients

A refreshing and delicious Berry Spinach Salad topped with crunchy pecans, creamy feta cheese, and a sweet balsamic glaze.

Fresh Greens

6 cups fresh spinach leaves

Fruits

1 cup fresh strawberries (sliced)
1 cup fresh blueberries

Toppings

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup pecans (toasted)
1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)

Balsamic Glaze

1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp honey (optional)

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

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base

In a large bowl, combine the spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, blueberries, thinly sliced red onion, and toasted pecans. Toss gently to mix.

Step 2: Add Feta Cheese

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the salad mixture.

Step 3: Create the Balsamic Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the balsamic vinegar.
Simmer until it reduces by half and thickens slightly.
If desired, stir in honey for added sweetness while cooling.

Step 4: Finish Your Salad

Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad to enhance its flavor.

This Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze will not only be a hit at your table but also become a go-to recipe in your kitchen! Enjoy!

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

Serving your Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative suggestions to enhance its presentation and flavor.

As a Main Dish

Serve the salad as a light main course. The combination of berries, spinach, and feta offers a satisfying meal that is both nutritious and delicious.

With Grilled Chicken

Pair the salad with grilled chicken breast for added protein. The flavors of the chicken complement the sweetness of the berries beautifully.

On a Buffet Table

This salad makes an excellent addition to any buffet. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients will attract guests and provide a healthy option.

In Individual Portions

Present the salad in individual bowls or jars for a fun twist. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy their portions without any mess.

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

Creating the perfect Berry Spinach Salad does not have to be challenging. With these simple tips, you can ensure your salad is always a hit.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and ripe berries for the best flavor and texture.
Toast Your Pecans: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor. Simply toast them in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown.
Make the Dressing Ahead: Prepare the balsamic glaze in advance to save time when serving. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Add Extra Crunch: For additional crunch, consider adding sliced cucumbers or crunchy seeds like sunflower seeds.
Customize Your Cheese: If you prefer, substitute feta with goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative to suit your taste.
Experiment with Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey in your balsamic glaze depending on your preference for sweetness.

Best Side Dishes for Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze

Pairing side dishes with your Berry Spinach Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this refreshing salad:

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Seasoned and grilled chicken skewers add protein and flavor, making them an ideal companion.
Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf adds heartiness without overpowering the salad’s delicate flavors.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring warmth and additional nutrients to your table.
Garlic Breadsticks: Crispy garlic breadsticks offer a satisfying crunch alongside your fresh salad.
Fruit Platter: A colorful fruit platter enhances the berry theme while providing additional healthy snacking options.
Cheese Platter: Offer assorted cheeses that pair well with berries for an elegant touch that guests will love.
Hummus and Veggies: Serve a variety of veggies with hummus for dipping as a healthy appetizer option.
Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or grains provide a filling side packed with goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to watch for.

Skipping fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe berries make a big difference in taste. Always choose high-quality, fresh produce for the best flavor.
Overdressing the salad: Too much balsamic glaze can overpower the salad. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to ensure balance.
Neglecting the nuts: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor. Don’t skip this step; simply toast them lightly in a dry skillet for the best results.
Using pre-crumbled feta: While convenient, pre-crumbled feta often lacks flavor. Opt for a block of feta and crumble it yourself for better taste.
Not letting the glaze cool: If you drizzle hot balsamic glaze over the salad, it can wilt the spinach. Make sure it cools slightly before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
It will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge.

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

Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes of spinach and berries upon thawing.

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

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm gently until just heated through.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals on low power; avoid overheating to maintain texture.
Stovetop: Warm briefly in a pan over low heat, stirring gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze.

Can I customize my Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze?

Yes! Feel free to mix in other fruits like raspberries or nuts like walnuts for added variety.

How long does it take to make this salad?

The total time is about 25 minutes, including preparation and cooking the balsamic glaze.

Is Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is packed with vitamins from spinach and antioxidants from berries while providing healthy fats from pecans.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You can prep individual components ahead of time but avoid mixing them until just before serving to keep everything fresh.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re looking for alternatives, try using goat cheese or a vegan cheese option for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

The Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite fruits or nuts. Give this delightful recipe a try; it’s perfect as a side dish or light meal!

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