Strawberry Spinach Candied Walnuts (Printable)
Fresh spinach and strawberries combined with crunchy candied walnuts and tangy balsamic dressing.
# What You Need:
→ For the Salad
01 - 6 cups baby spinach, washed and dried
02 - 1 pint (2 cups) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
03 - 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
04 - 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
05 - 1/2 cup candied walnuts
→ For the Candied Walnuts
06 - 1/2 cup walnut halves
07 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
08 - 1 tablespoon water
09 - Pinch of sea salt
→ For the Balsamic Vinaigrette
10 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
11 - 1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
12 - 1 teaspoon honey
13 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
14 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# How To Make:
01 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small skillet over medium heat, combine walnuts, sugar, water, and a pinch of salt. Stir frequently until the sugar melts and coats the walnuts, about 3 to 4 minutes. Spread the candied walnuts on the baking sheet to cool completely.
02 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified.
03 - In a large bowl, combine spinach, sliced strawberries, and red onion. Drizzle with the vinaigrette and toss gently to coat evenly. Top with crumbled feta cheese and cooled candied walnuts.
04 - Serve immediately for the freshest texture and optimal flavor.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The contrast between warm, sugar-crusted walnuts and cool, juicy strawberries creates this incredible sweet-salty-crunchy situation that keeps you coming back for another bite
- It comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like something from a fancy restaurant, making it perfect for last-minute dinner guests
02 -
- The candied walnuts can be made up to a week ahead and stored in an airtight container. In fact, I always make a double batch because they're snack-worthy on their own
- Don't dress the entire salad if you're planning leftovers. Keep the dressing, nuts, and cheese separate and combine just before serving, otherwise you'll end up with soggy, sad spinach
03 -
- Dry your spinach thoroughly, even if it says pre-washed. Water droplets prevent the dressing from clinging properly and make everything taste diluted
- Warm the walnuts slightly in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes before serving if they've lost their crunch. It brings back that fresh-candied texture