About the Recipe
This spring-inspired salad marries sun-ripened strawberries with tender spinach and toasted walnuts, all brought together by our signature Big Floral Energy vinaigrette. Seasonal variations and garnish options included to enjoy this versatile dish year-round.
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Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach leaves, washed and dried
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 3/4 cup walnuts lightly toasted and roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
For the Floral Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup Big Floral Energy vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
15 minutes
4
Easy
Preparation
1. For the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the Big Floral Energy vinegar, honey, and (optional) Dijon mustard until well combined. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts until fragrant and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Let cool.
3. In a large serving bowl, arrange the baby spinach leaves.
4. Layer the sliced strawberries, toasted walnuts, red onion, and goat cheese (if using) over the spinach.
5. Just before serving, drizzle with desired amount of vinaigrette and toss gently to combine. Serve additional dressing on the side.
Chef's Notes:
- The vinaigrette can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature & shake well before using.
- Add/Substitute sliced almonds, pistachios, raisins, candied pecans, dried cranberries, or cherries.
- This salad is best assembled just before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
Let us share some delicious variations and garnish ideas for this salad!
1. Autumn Harvest Version
- Replace strawberries with sliced pears or honey crisp apples
- Use spiced candied pecans instead of walnuts
- Add roasted butternut squash cubes
- Switch goat cheese for blue cheese crumbles
2. Summer Berry Medley
- Add blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries
- Use pistachios instead of walnuts
- Include fresh mint leaves
- Try feta instead of goat cheese
3. Asian-Inspired Twist
- Add mandarin orange segments
- Replace walnuts with toasted sesame seeds and sliced almonds
- Include edamame
- Modify vinaigrette by adding a touch of sesame oil and fresh grated ginger
4. Mediterranean Style
- Add cucumber ribbons and kalamata olives
- Use toasted pine nuts instead of walnuts
- Include fresh basil leaves
- Switch to shaved parmesan instead of goat cheese