There’s something about a strawberry spinach salad that just feels like summer—light, refreshing, and so full of color.

I started making this salad during a season when I wanted to eat better, but still enjoy my meals. And let me tell you—this one checks all the boxes. It’s sweet, savory, fresh, and satisfying. The grilled chicken adds the protein you need to stay full, while the juicy strawberries and tangy vinaigrette keep every bite exciting.

It’s my go-to for warm days when I don’t want to cook a full meal but still want something that feels beautiful and balanced on my plate.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 6 cups baby spinach

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or almonds (toasted for extra crunch)

For the Dressing:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Grill the chicken: Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice thinly.

2. Make the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or jar.

3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl or on plates, layer spinach, strawberries, red onion, feta, and pecans. Top with grilled chicken slices.

4. Drizzle with dressing and serve immediately.

Why I Love This Salad

This salad is light but still satisfying. It’s packed with nutrients, fiber, and protein, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s one of those meals that makes you feel good from the inside out.

When I first started focusing on meals that made me feel energized instead of weighed down, this was one of the first recipes that stuck. It’s clean, real, and full of flavor—and it looks beautiful too.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Makes 2)

• Calories: 390

• Protein: 32g

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Fiber: 4g

• Fat: 22g