Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese

This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese is fresh, colorful, and just the right balance of sweet and tangy. It features tender baby spinach leaves, juicy red strawberries, creamy goat…

By Alina • February 1, 2026 • Reading time: 6 min

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This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese is fresh, colorful, and just the right balance of sweet and tangy. It features tender baby spinach leaves, juicy red strawberries, creamy goat cheese crumbles, and a handful of crunchy nuts or seeds that add a perfect texture. The flavors come together simply but make a big impression, especially on a sunny day when you want something light and delicious.

I love making this salad when strawberries are in season because the sweetness really shines and pairs so well with the tangy goat cheese. A quick drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette or a simple lemon dressing brings all the tastes together. It’s one of those salads that always feels like a little celebration on your plate, and I find myself going back for seconds more often than I expect!

My favorite way to enjoy this salad is with a crusty piece of bread or alongside grilled chicken for a casual lunch or dinner. It works great for a picnic too because it’s easy to pack and holds up nicely. This salad never fails to get compliments, and it makes me happy every time I eat it—not just because it’s tasty, but because it’s so simple to put together and feels good on the body.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Baby Spinach: Fresh baby spinach leaves are tender and mild. If fresh spinach isn’t available, try baby kale or mixed spring greens for a similar texture and flavor.

Strawberries: Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best taste. If out of season, blueberries or sliced apples can add a fresh, sweet touch.

Goat Cheese: This adds creamy tanginess. If you’re not a fan, feta or ricotta salata are great alternatives.

Red Onion: Thin slices give a gentle sharpness. For a milder option, try shallots or green onions.

Nuts: Pecans or walnuts add crunch and earthiness. You can swap these for slivered almonds, sunflower seeds, or leave them out if you prefer.

Balsamic Vinegar: It provides sweet acidity. If you don’t have balsamic, red wine vinegar with a touch of honey can work well.

How Can You Toss the Salad Without Bruising the Spinach?

Spinach leaves are delicate and bruise easily, so tossing needs a gentle hand. Here’s how to keep everything fresh and lovely:

• Pour your dressing gently over the salad rather than drowning the leaves.
• Use salad tongs or two large spoons to lift and turn the salad from the bottom up gently.
• Move slowly to avoid smashing the strawberries or spinach.
• Dress the salad just before serving to keep the spinach crisp and prevent wilting.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large salad bowl – provides plenty of space to toss ingredients gently without bruising the spinach.
• Small mixing bowl or jar – perfect for whisking or shaking together the dressing.
• Whisk or fork – helps mix oil, vinegar, and honey into a smooth dressing.
• Sharp knife – needed for slicing strawberries and thinly slicing the red onion cleanly.
• Salad tongs or large spoons – makes tossing the salad easy while keeping ingredients intact.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Add grilled chicken or cooked shrimp for extra protein and a more filling meal.
• Use feta cheese instead of goat cheese for a saltier, sharper note.
• Include sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds for a different crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• Toss in fresh basil or mint leaves to brighten the salad with an herbal twist.

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For The Salad:

• 6 cups fresh baby spinach leaves, washed and dried
• 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced or halved
• 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional for crunch)

For The Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This salad takes about 10 to 15 minutes to prepare. Most of that time is washing and slicing the strawberries and onions, mixing the dressing, and gently tossing everything together. It’s quick enough to make on a busy day but fresh and delightful enough for guests.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare The Salad Ingredients:

Place the fresh baby spinach leaves in a large salad bowl. Add the sliced or halved strawberries and thinly sliced red onion on top. This forms the colorful base of your salad.

2. Make The Dressing:

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and well combined.

3. Toss The Salad:

Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Toss gently using salad tongs or large spoons to coat the spinach and strawberries evenly without damaging the leaves.

4. Add The Finishing Touches:

Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the top. If you like, add the chopped pecans or walnuts for a nice crunch. Give it one last gentle toss if desired.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the salad immediately as a fresh starter or side dish. It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or fish for a tasty and balanced meal.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large salad bowl
• Small bowl or jar for dressing
• Whisk or fork
• Sharp knife
• Salad tongs or large spoons

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
• Swap goat cheese for feta or ricotta salata for a different creamy tang.
• Include sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds instead of pecans or walnuts.
• Mix in fresh basil or mint leaves to add a herbal brightness to the salad.

Can I Use Frozen Strawberries in This Salad?

It’s best to use fresh strawberries for this salad to maintain the texture and flavor. If you only have frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid to avoid soggy salad.

How Long Can I Store the Salad After Making It?

This salad is best enjoyed immediately. If needed, store leftovers separately without dressing for up to 1 day in the fridge. Add dressing just before serving to keep the spinach crisp.

Can I Substitute Goat Cheese With Another Cheese?

Absolutely! Feta or ricotta salata are great substitutes that provide a similar tangy, creamy texture. Choose what you enjoy most or have on hand.

What’s the Best Way to Toast Nuts for This Salad?

Toast nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring often until fragrant and lightly browned. Let them cool before adding to the salad for extra crunch and flavor.