Strawberry Basil Feta Salad

Name: Strawberry Basil Feta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh spinach; 2 cups strawberries, sliced; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Global Recipes

I love making this Strawberry Basil Feta Salad during the warmer months when fresh strawberries are in abundance. The combination of sweet strawberries and creamy feta creates a delightful contrast, while the fresh basil adds an aromatic touch that brightens the entire dish. This salad not only makes a stunning presentation but also tantalizes the taste buds with its vibrant flavors. Whether I'm hosting a picnic or enjoying a simple lunch at home, this salad never fails to impress. It's an easy and refreshing addition to any meal!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T16:21:27.922Z

When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was skeptical about the combination of strawberries and feta. However, after trying it, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors meld together. The sweetness of the strawberries balances beautifully with the salty, creamy feta, making every bite a delight. I often add a splash of balsamic vinegar to enhance the flavor even further!

This salad is also quite versatile; you can easily swap out the feta for goat cheese or add some toasted nuts for extra crunch. I've served it at barbecues and family dinners, and it always receives rave reviews. It’s a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or simply on its own as a light meal.

Why You'll Love This Salad
Bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors that awaken the palate
Simple to prepare, yet elegant enough for entertaining
Healthy and refreshing, perfect for warm weather meals

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for elevating the flavors in this Strawberry Basil Feta Salad. Choose strawberries that are ripe yet firm, as they add a natural sweetness and juiciness to the dish. Look for vibrant green spinach leaves, avoiding any wilted or yellowed foliage. Fresh basil is equally important; its aromatic oils are released when chopped, adding a fragrant note that complements the sweetness of the strawberries and saltiness of the feta.

The crumbled feta cheese is another star in this salad. Opt for a quality feta that is creamy yet crumbly, as it provides a wonderful contrast to the juicy strawberries. You can also experiment with flavored feta varieties, such as herb or lemon-infused, to add an extra layer of flavor. The balance of textures—from the crisp spinach to the creamy feta and juicy strawberries—creates a refreshing experience in every bite.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Strawberry Basil Feta Salad can be served as a light lunch or as a vibrant side dish at dinner. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or steak, making it an excellent addition to summer barbecues or picnics. You can also serve it with crusty bread on the side for a more filling meal. To make it a full meal, consider adding sliced grilled chicken or shrimp on top, which can provide additional protein and flavor.

If you're looking to customize the salad further, there are plenty of variations to explore. For a nutty crunch, add toasted walnuts or pecans. If you're avoiding dairy, consider using a dairy-free feta or leaving it out altogether; the salad will still shine with the other ingredients. Feel free to swap out the balsamic dressing for a light lemon vinaigrette for a zesty twist. Experimenting with ingredients can help you discover the combination that your taste buds love best!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 cups fresh spinach
2 cups strawberries, sliced
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and enjoy your fresh and flavorful strawberry basil feta salad!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your delicious salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing the spinach leaves and patting them dry. Slice the strawberries and red onion as needed. Chop the fresh basil leaves and crumble the feta cheese.

Mix the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, red onion, and basil. Gently toss to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the ingredients.

Serve

Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese. Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or light main course.

Enjoy your delicious and colorful strawberry basil feta salad!

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider adding nuts like walnuts or slivered almonds. You can also substitute different fruits based on seasonality for a fun twist on the recipe.

Tips for Perfect Preparation

A key technique when preparing this salad is to handle each ingredient carefully to maintain their integrity. When slicing strawberries, use a sharp knife to create clean cuts and preserve their natural shape. Aim for uniform slices, about 1/4 inch thick, so they mix well without turning mushy. When washing the spinach, ensure it is well-dried using a salad spinner, as excess water can dilute the dressing and make the salad watery.

When making the dressing, whisk the balsamic vinegar and olive oil vigorously until fully emulsified, achieving a glossy texture. This ensures that every ingredient is evenly coated in the dressing. If you prefer a stronger flavor, feel free to adjust the vinegar and oil ratio, or add a touch of honey for sweetness or Dijon mustard for a flavorful bite. Keeping the dressing ingredients at room temperature will help them blend smoothly.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

To maximize freshness, it's best to serve this salad immediately after preparation. However, if you need to prepare it ahead of time, store the components separately. Keep the washed spinach, sliced strawberries, and chopped basil in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a day. This will help prevent the spinach from wilting and the strawberries from becoming mushy when exposed to moisture.

The dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to give it a good shake or whisk before using it again, as the ingredients tend to separate over time. When ready to serve, combine the ingredients and toss with dressing, adding the feta last to prevent it from breaking up too much. This method ensures that your salad retains its delightful texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to prepare the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh, but you can prep the ingredients a few hours in advance.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or a dairy-free feta for those with dietary restrictions.

→ How can I make this salad more filling?

Adding grilled chicken or quinoa can turn this salad into a more substantial meal.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are ideal for this recipe, you can use thawed frozen strawberries in a pinch, but the texture may differ.