This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a visual feast and a delicious way to celebrate the fruit season in India, with its vibrant colours, crunchy textures and refreshing flavours. The tender sharpness of spinach and the satisfying crunch of toasted pistachios provide a perfect counterpoint to the luscious berries and sweet, sour and juicy strawberries in this salad. This salad recipe is brought to life with glossy maple syrup, which enhances the flavour and texture of every mouthful.
This Strawberry Spinach Salad is great for light weekday meals, summer potlucks or brunches, as it is both nutritious and versatile thanks to its naturally vegan ingredients and add-ins.
Give the baby spinach a good wash. If you're using regular spinach, make sure to remove any tough stems and roughly chop the larger leaves. Slice the strawberries after washing and hulling them. Raspberries and blackberries should also be rinsed gently and then dried.
Description - Step 2
Step 2: Toast the Nuts
Put a small skillet on low heat. Toss in the nuts (pistachios or whatever you are using) and toast, turning often, until they are lightly browned and slightly aromatic. Keep a careful eye on them to prevent burning. Once cooled, roughly chop, if preferred.
Description - Step 3
Step 3: Make the Dressing
To make the dressing, combine the olive oil, vinegar, maple syrup (you can also use honey or jaggery syrup), mustard paste, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Whisk until it emulsifies, making sure the dressing is glossy and somewhat thick. Feel free to tweak the acidity and sweetness to your liking. Before serving, whisk the dressing again.
Description - Step 4
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Start by layering fresh baby spinach leaves in a salad bowl. Scatter the sliced strawberries, blackberries, raspberries or pomegranate over the top, then finish with toasted nuts.
Description - Step 5
Step 5: Toss & Serve
Pour the dressing over the salad right before serving. Gently toss to ensure the leaves and berries are well coated. Enjoy straight away for the best taste experience.