With all the snow outside my house, it is hard to remember that we are entering Spring very soon! I love all the fresh fruits and vegetables that start to become seasonal in spring. We are entering strawberry growing season, and the market I go to is packed to the brim with the juicy, plump treats! I love combining strawberries with some greens, pizzaz, and a little crunch– which is exactly what this salad does!
This salad is a combination of fresh strawberries, nutty and crunchy walnuts, delicate baby spinach, and just a hint of creamy tang from crumbled goat cheese. Drizzled with a light and refreshing strawberry balsamic dressing, your taste buds will jump with joy as you embrace the flavors of spring. Toasting the walnuts adds a depth and complexity to an elegant, easy, and satisfying side.
Strawberry, Goat Cheese, and Walnut Salad
Serves 3 Serving Size: about 2 and 1/2 cups salad and 2tbl dressing
Calories/Serving: 160
*Note: this makes 3 large side-dish salads. This can easily be made into a main dish by dividing the salad into two portions (instead of 3). If doing so, calories increase to 240/serving.
Ingredients:
- 6c. baby spinach
- 1c. quartered strawberries
- 2tbl chopped walnuts, toasted (simply cook in a pan, no oil, for about 1-2 minuteson medium-low heat, moving occasionally)
- 1 ounce goat cheese, crumbled
- 1tbl balsalmic vinegar
- 1/2tbl extra virgin olive oil
- 2 medium strawberries
- 1tbl honey
- 1tbl warm water
Instructions:
- To prepare the salad, lay the spinach out on a plate or in a bowl. Evenly distribute the strawberries, walnuts, and goat cheese on the salad.
- To create the dressing, combine the vinegar, oil, strawberries, honey, and water in a food processor or blender. Puree until smooth and well-combined. Drizzle over salad and enjoy!
