Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze

Berry spinach salad with pecans, feta, and balsamic glaze is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of summer. This delightful salad is perfect for various occasions, including summer cookouts, potlucks, and picnics. With its fresh seasonal ingredients like strawberries, blackberries, and baby spinach, this salad offers a deliciously light option for lunch or dinner.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For Toasting in the Oven
• Balsamic Dressing
• Spinach Strawberry Salad
• How to Make Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze
• Step 1: Toast the Pecans and Prosciutto
• Step 2: Make the Balsamic Glaze
• Step 3: Assemble the Salad
• How to Serve Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze
• As a Refreshing Main Course
• At Summer Gatherings
• Perfect for Picnics
• As an Elegant Side Dish
• How to Perfect Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze
• Best Side Dishes for Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze
• Reheating Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other fruits in this Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze?
• How long does Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze last in the fridge?
• Can I prepare Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze ahead of time?
• Is this salad gluten-free?
• What can I serve with this salad?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: This salad features fresh strawberries and blackberries that bring sweetness and color to your plate.
• Nutty Crunch: Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch, enhancing the texture of the dish.
• Creamy Feta: The crumbled feta cheese provides a savory contrast to the sweet fruit.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or a main course, it’s suitable for any meal.
• Quick to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip this up in no time.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your berry spinach salad with pecans, feta, and balsamic glaze is easier with the right tools. Gather these essentials for smooth sailing in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Small saucepan
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for toasting the prosciutto and pecans evenly without sticking.
• Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
• Small saucepan: Ideal for making the balsamic glaze, allowing for easy temperature control.

Ingredients

For Toasting in the Oven

• 4 oz prosciutto (toasted)
• ⅔ cup pecans toasted, some of them chopped

Balsamic Dressing

• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup honey or brown sugar

Spinach Strawberry Salad

• 6 oz baby spinach fresh
• 3 cups strawberries cleaned and hulled, sliced
• 1 cup blackberries
• ⅓ cup feta cheese crumbled

How to Make Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze

Step 1: Toast the Pecans and Prosciutto

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Spread the pecans and torn prosciutto on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Toast for about 5 to 10 minutes until the nuts turn slightly darker and the prosciutto becomes crispy.

Step 2: Make the Balsamic Glaze

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine balsamic vinegar and honey.
2. Bring to a gentle boil.
3. Reduce heat to simmer and stir until thickened (about 10 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and pour into a heat-proof bowl to cool; it will thicken further as it cools.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine all salad ingredients except pecans and prosciutto.
2. Toss gently to mix well.
3. Divide into individual serving bowls.
4. Top each bowl with toasted prosciutto and whole plus chopped toasted pecans.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over each serving before enjoying!

How to Serve Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze

Serving a Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze can elevate any meal. This salad is perfect for gatherings or a simple lunch at home. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful dish.

As a Refreshing Main Course

• Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty meal.
• Add quinoa or farro for extra protein and texture.

At Summer Gatherings

• Serve alongside BBQ dishes to balance rich flavors.
• Present in individual bowls for easy serving at potlucks.

Perfect for Picnics

• Pack in mason jars for a portable option.
• Include extra balsamic glaze on the side for drizzling later.

As an Elegant Side Dish

• Complement with roasted vegetables to create a colorful plate.
• Serve alongside crusty bread for added crunch.

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How to Perfect Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze

To make your Berry Spinach Salad truly stand out, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for the freshest spinach and seasonal berries to enhance flavor.
• Toast Your Nuts: Toasting pecans releases their oils, giving them a richer taste.
• Let the Dressing Cool: Allowing the balsamic glaze to cool ensures it thickens properly and coats the salad well.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like goat cheese for a unique twist.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the salad before serving allows flavors to meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze

This vibrant salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some suggestions to complement your meal.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinate chicken in herbs and spices for a flavorful addition.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness balances the tangy salad perfectly.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A light grain dish that adds texture and nutty flavor.
4. Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery bread that’s great for dipping into leftover glaze.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella and tomatoes provide a refreshing contrast.
6. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A quick stir-fry adds color and crunch alongside the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch for:

• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or out-of-season ingredients can compromise flavor. Always choose fresh, seasonal produce for the best results.
• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
• Not Toasting Nuts Properly: Underripe or burnt nuts can ruin the salad’s texture and flavor. Keep an eye on them while toasting to achieve that perfect crunch.
• Ignoring Flavor Balance: Ensure that the sweetness of the balsamic glaze complements the saltiness of feta. Adjust ingredients to maintain a balanced flavor profile.
• Cutting Ingredients Too Large: Large pieces can make it hard to enjoy each bite. Chop ingredients into bite-sized pieces for better texture and ease of eating.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 2–3 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in spinach and berries.
• If necessary, you could freeze individual components separately (e.g., pecans).

Reheating Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm the salad for about 10 minutes without dressing.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat, stirring frequently; do not add dressing until serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits in this Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with fruits like blueberries or raspberries based on your preference.

How long does Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze last in the fridge?

The salad will stay fresh for about 2–3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I prepare Berry Spinach Salad With Pecans, Feta, And Balsamic Glaze ahead of time?

You can prepare all components ahead but keep the dressing separate until serving for best freshness.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes! The Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat products.

What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish as a light meal or as a side dish at gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Berry Spinach Salad with Pecans, Feta, and Balsamic Glaze is a vibrant dish that celebrates seasonal flavors. Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion—from summer cookouts to light lunches. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite nuts or fruits for a personal touch!