Imagine a salad that's not just a side dish, but a culinary adventure that dances on your palate with every single bite! This Spinach Strawberry Fennel Salad is about to revolutionize your understanding of what a salad can be - a perfect harmony of sweet, tangy, and fresh flavors that will make your mouth water and your health-conscious heart sing. Packed with vibrant colors, incredible textures, and nutritional powerhouses, this recipe is your ticket to a gourmet experience that takes just 15 minutes to create.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Wash the fresh spinach leaves thoroughly under cool running water, then pat dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Prepare the strawberries by rinsing them gently, removing the green tops, and slicing them into thin, uniform pieces.
- Trim the fennel bulb by cutting off the stalks and removing any tough outer layers. Slice the bulb very thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline, creating delicate, translucent pieces.
- In a large salad bowl, spread the fresh spinach leaves as a base, creating an even layer.
- Artfully arrange the sliced strawberries and thinly sliced fennel over the spinach, distributing them evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad, allowing it to add creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Lightly toast the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor, then scatter them over the salad.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette evenly across the salad, ensuring all ingredients are lightly coated.
- Gently toss the salad just before serving to mix the ingredients and distribute the dressing.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, crisp textures and vibrant flavors of the salad.
Tips
- For the freshest taste, choose organic spinach and strawberries at peak ripeness.
- When slicing fennel, aim for paper-thin pieces to maximize its delicate flavor.
- Lightly toasting walnuts is crucial - it brings out their rich, nutty essence and adds a delightful crunch.
- Use high-quality balsamic vinaigrette or make your own for an extra flavor boost.
- Serve the salad immediately after dressing to maintain the crisp texture of the spinach and prevent wilting.
- For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to make this a complete meal.
- Chill your salad plates beforehand to keep the ingredients crisp and cool.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 140kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 6mg
