Delicious and Nutritious: Strawberry Spinach Salad

Eating healthy doesn't have to be boring or tasteless. In fact, it can be colorful and mouth-watering! Tara Peele from Tara Peele Wellness, LLC, is here to guide you through creating a delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad. This salad is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a powerhouse of nutrition. Let's dive into how you can whip up this refreshing dish.

Why Choose Strawberry Spinach Salad?

This simple salad combines the fresh, sweet taste of strawberries with the earthy, rich flavor of spinach. Here are a few reasons why you should consider making it part of your meal rotation:

• **Rich in Vitamins:** Strawberries are packed with Vitamin C, which boosts the immune system. Spinach is a great source of Vitamin K and Vitamin A.
• **High in Antioxidants:** Antioxidants help protect the body from free radicals and oxidative stress.
• **Good for the Heart:** The leafy greens in spinach can help maintain heart health, while almonds provide heart-helping fats.
• **Low in Calories:** This salad is filling yet low in calories, making it perfect for those watching their intake.

Ingredients You Will Need

To prepare the Strawberry Spinach Salad, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup sliced strawberries
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette

Easy Instructions

1. **Combine** spinach, strawberries, goat cheese, and almonds in a large bowl. Make sure everything is mixed well, yet gently to keep the strawberries intact.
2. **Drizzle** the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Be careful not to overdo it to maintain the crispness.
3. **Toss gently**. Use large salad tongs and move everything around just enough to coat the ingredients with dressing.
4. **Serve immediately**. This salad is best enjoyed fresh.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

This salad contains several healthy ingredients that contribute various benefits:

Spinach

Spinach is hailed for its fiber content that aids digestion. It also contains calcium and iron, essential for bone health and energy.

Strawberries

Strawberries' high Vitamin C helps skin health and boosts collagen production. They're also known to reduce inflammation.

Goat Cheese

Lower in calories compared to cow's milk cheese, goat cheese adds a creamy texture. It also provides proteins for energy.

Almonds

Almonds are excellent for heart health due to their healthy fats. They also provide Vitamin E, which is important for skin health.

Balsamic Vinaigrette

This tangy dressing is low in fat and adds plenty of flavor without too many calories. It pairs perfectly with the sweetness of strawberries.

Serving Suggestions

You can enjoy this salad as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish. To make it a complete meal, you might consider adding grilled chicken or salmon on top. If you're hosting a gathering, serve it alongside other colorful dishes for an eye-catching spread.

Conclusion

Embracing healthy ingredients doesn't require sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. This Strawberry Spinach Salad offers a harmonious blend of tastes and textures that even picky eaters will appreciate. It's easy to make, full of nutrients, and perfect for any meal. Next time you're thinking of what to prepare, let this salad be your answer. Enjoy the balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy goodness while nourishing your body!