This Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad with Goat’s Cheese is a refreshing and colorful summer salad. Bursting with sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, crunchy walnuts, and tossed with an easy orange poppy seed dressing, it’s perfect for a light lunch, a beautiful side dish, or a special occasion gathering. Easy to make with no cooking required, it’s a real showstopper on any table!

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 cups baby spinach (110g)

• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and halved (290g)

• 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced

• 1 cup chopped cucumber (150g)

• 1 large ripe avocado, cut into large chunks

• 4 medium radishes, thinly sliced

• 3 large scallions (spring onions), sliced

• ⅓ cup walnut halves (45g)

• 1 log semi-soft goat’s cheese (4 oz/110g)

• ¼ cup pumpkin seeds (optional, 35g)

For the Orange Poppy Seed Dressing:

• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil (118ml)

• ⅓ cup freshly squeezed orange juice (80ml)

• 1 tablespoon runny honey

• ½ heaped tablespoon Dijon mustard

• ½ tablespoon red wine vinegar

• 1½ teaspoons poppy seeds

• ¼ teaspoon sea salt

• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. Make the Dressing:
   Add all dressing ingredients to a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Shake well until emulsified. Refrigerate until ready to use.

2. Assemble the Salad:
   In a large serving bowl, combine baby spinach, celery, cucumber, radishes, scallions, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds. Toss gently.

3. Add Creamy Ingredients:
   Add the avocado chunks and crumble in the goat’s cheese. Gently nudge them into the salad without overmixing.

4. Add the Strawberries:
   Scatter the strawberries over the top without tossing to keep them intact.

5. Dress the Salad:
   Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving, or serve it on the side if preferred. Lift the leaves gently with salad servers to distribute dressing if needed.

6. Serve Immediately:
   Best enjoyed fresh!

Nutrients

(Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 607 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 22g

• Protein: 13.8g

• Fat: 54.8g

• Saturated Fat: 12.5g

• Cholesterol: 22mg

• Sodium: 368mg

• Potassium: 765mg

• Fiber: 7.5g

• Sugar: 11g

• Calcium: 130mg

• Iron: 3.4mg

Why Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad with Goat’s Cheese Is So Popular

The popularity of this salad lies in its irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Sweet strawberries pair perfectly with the tangy creaminess of goat cheese, while walnuts add satisfying crunch and richness. The fresh spinach and assorted vegetables bring a crisp, refreshing element that makes every forkful dynamic and exciting. Tied together with a zesty orange poppy seed dressing, the salad feels indulgent yet refreshing. Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing, adding to its charm as a show-stopping dish for brunches, potlucks, garden parties, or simply elevating a weekday meal.

Perfect for Light Lunches, Side Dishes, and Special Gatherings

Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad with Goat’s Cheese is an incredibly versatile dish that fits beautifully into a range of occasions. As a light lunch, it is satisfying without being heavy, offering a balanced meal that energizes rather than weighs you down. As a side dish, it complements grilled meats, seafood, or hearty vegetarian mains with its bright, fresh flavors. For special gatherings, the salad’s vibrant presentation makes it a stunning centerpiece that feels festive and welcoming. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, attending a potluck, or planning a romantic picnic, this salad is a perfect choice that suits nearly any event.

Celebrating Fresh, Simple Ingredients

The soul of this salad lies in its fresh, simple ingredients. Tender baby spinach provides a nutrient-rich base that is mild enough to let the other ingredients shine. Sweet strawberries add natural juiciness and color, offering a beautiful contrast to the greens. Crisp celery, cool cucumber, and peppery radishes bring layers of texture and flavor. Creamy avocado adds a luxurious richness that balances the sharper notes from the goat cheese and dressing. Walnuts and optional pumpkin seeds contribute a delightful crunch and nutty undertone. The bright, slightly sweet orange poppy seed dressing ties it all together with a refreshing citrus kick that enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.

Adaptability and Flavor Variations

One of the wonderful things about Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad with Goat’s Cheese is how easy it is to adapt. You can swap out ingredients based on what is in season or your personal preferences. If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, try crumbled feta, blue cheese, or shaved Parmesan for a different flavor profile. Swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches to keep it seasonal. Use mixed greens, arugula, or romaine if spinach isn’t available. Almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds can easily replace walnuts. For a protein boost, grilled chicken, salmon, or even chickpeas can be added to transform the salad into a hearty main dish. The orange poppy seed dressing can also be varied with lemon or lime juice for a different citrusy twist.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and fiber. Strawberries are rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which supports immune health. Walnuts offer heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for brain function and inflammation reduction. Avocado adds healthy monounsaturated fats that support heart health and help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Goat cheese provides protein and calcium while being easier to digest for some people compared to cow’s milk cheeses. The dressing, made with extra virgin olive oil, adds another dose of heart-healthy fats and a refreshing citrus burst. Together, these ingredients create a nutrient-dense salad that is as nourishing as it is delicious.

Tips for the Best Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad with Goat’s Cheese

A few simple techniques can help ensure that your salad is the best it can be. Use the freshest spinach you can find, and make sure it’s thoroughly washed and dried to avoid soggy leaves. Choose ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best natural sweetness. When preparing the avocado, add it just before serving to maintain its color and texture. Crumble the goat cheese gently so it distributes evenly without overwhelming the salad. Toasting the walnuts briefly in a dry pan enhances their flavor and crunch. When dressing the salad, pour lightly over the top and toss gently, or better yet, serve the dressing on the side so guests can add as much or as little as they like. This method keeps the salad fresh and vibrant longer, especially if it needs to sit out for a while at a gathering.

Serving Suggestions

Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad with Goat’s Cheese is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. As a light lunch, pair it with a crusty baguette or a bowl of chilled soup for a refreshing summer meal. As a side dish, it works beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or fish. For brunches and garden parties, it pairs well with quiche, smoked salmon platters, and a variety of pastries. If serving at a holiday gathering, it offers a bright, fresh counterpoint to heavier dishes like roasts and casseroles. For wine pairings, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, dry Rosé, or a light Pinot Grigio complements the salad’s fruity, tangy elements without overpowering its delicate flavors.

The Beauty and Simplicity of No-Cook Meals

One of the greatest pleasures of a salad like this is its no-cook simplicity. Especially during warmer months, when turning on the oven or stove feels like a chore, recipes that rely on fresh ingredients and minimal preparation become true lifesavers. This salad captures the essence of effortless cooking, celebrating the natural flavors of high-quality produce and letting each ingredient shine. It proves that delicious, beautiful meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming to prepare. With just a few thoughtful touches, you can create a dish that feels gourmet and nourishing without ever needing to touch a burner.

Reasons to Love Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad with Goat’s Cheese

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this salad. It is visually stunning, making it an instant centerpiece on any table. It’s quick and easy to prepare, requiring no cooking and just a few minutes of prep. It’s highly adaptable, allowing endless variations to suit your taste or the season. It’s packed with nutrients, offering a healthy and balanced meal or side dish. It’s light yet satisfying, refreshing without being bland. Most importantly, it brings joy to the table with every colorful, flavorful, and nourishing bite.

Conclusion

Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad with Goat’s Cheese is the perfect marriage of freshness, flavor, and beauty in a single bowl. With its colorful medley of crisp greens, juicy strawberries, creamy goat cheese, crunchy walnuts, and a vibrant citrus dressing, this salad is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Whether served as a light lunch, a festive side dish, or a beautiful addition to any gathering, it promises to delight and satisfy. Easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser, this refreshing salad is sure to become a favorite go-to recipe for any occasion.