This vibrant spinach salad with strawberries and chicken is more than just a pretty face; it's a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition. The sweet strawberries, savory chicken, and peppery spinach create a delightful combination, making it a perfect light lunch, dinner, or even a satisfying side dish. This recipe is easily customizable to your taste preferences, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. We'll cover everything from the best ingredients to choose to tips for making it ahead of time.
What Makes This Salad So Special?
This spinach salad transcends the ordinary by combining unexpected yet complementary flavors. The sweetness of the strawberries beautifully balances the earthy spinach and the lean protein of the grilled or baked chicken. The recipe is inherently healthy, packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. Its versatility allows you to easily adapt it to different dietary needs and preferences.
Choosing the Best Ingredients
- Spinach: Opt for fresh, baby spinach for its tender leaves and mild flavor. Avoid wilted or yellowing leaves.
- Strawberries: Select ripe, firm strawberries with a deep red color. Avoid overly soft or bruised berries.
- Chicken: Grilled or baked chicken breast is the ideal choice for its lean protein and versatility. You can easily marinate it beforehand for extra flavor.
- Add-ins: The beauty of this salad lies in its customizability. Consider adding crumbled feta cheese, toasted pecans or walnuts, dried cranberries, or a sprinkle of goat cheese for added texture and flavor.
How to Make the Perfect Spinach Salad with Strawberries and Chicken
Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes (for chicken)
Ingredients:
- 10 ounces baby spinach, washed and dried
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken: Grill or bake chicken breasts until cooked through. Let cool slightly, then dice or shred.
- Make the dressing: Whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, and chicken. Add feta cheese and nuts, if using.
- Dress and serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the chicken and dressing ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Wash and dry the spinach thoroughly. Just before serving, combine the ingredients, toss with the dressing, and enjoy. Avoid adding the strawberries until right before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.
What Kind of Chicken Can I Use?
You can use any type of cooked chicken you prefer. Grilled, baked, or even rotisserie chicken works well in this salad. The key is to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and cooled before adding it to the salad.
What Other Fruits Can I Add?
Besides strawberries, other fruits complement this salad wonderfully. Consider adding blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, or mandarin orange segments for a burst of flavor and color. Remember to choose fruits that are firm and won't release too much moisture.
What Dressing Goes Best with This Salad?
While the balsamic vinaigrette recipe provided is delicious, you can experiment with other dressings. A poppy seed dressing, a light raspberry vinaigrette, or even a simple lemon-herb dressing can be equally delightful.
Is This Salad Healthy?
Absolutely! This salad is packed with nutrients. Spinach is a great source of vitamins A and K, strawberries are rich in antioxidants, and chicken provides lean protein. The combination offers a balanced and healthy meal option.
By following this recipe and incorporating your own creative twists, you can create a truly unique and delicious spinach salad with strawberries and chicken that will impress your family and friends. Remember, the key is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and to have fun with it!
