Sweet & Savory Delight: Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Grilled Chicken

Looking for a light, refreshing, and protein-packed meal for a warm day? Look no further than this delightful Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Grilled Chicken! This salad is a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures, combining the sweetness of ripe strawberries, the earthy goodness of spinach, the satisfying chew of grilled chicken, and a tangy vinaigrette that ties it all together. It’s a healthy and delicious option for lunch, a light dinner, or even a potluck contribution.

Why We Love This Salad:

• Nutrient Powerhouse: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from spinach and strawberries, this salad is a health booster.
• Protein-Packed: Grilled chicken provides lean protein, helping you stay full and energized.
• Flavorful and Refreshing: The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors keeps your taste buds happy.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite nuts, cheeses, or other veggies for a personalized touch.
• Quick and Simple: With minimal prep time, this salad comes together in a flash, perfect for busy weeknights.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• For the Salad:
  • 6 oz fresh spinach, washed and dried
  • 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, toasted pecans or almonds, avocado slices
• For the Grilled Chicken:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
• For the Vinaigrette:
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or dicing.
3. Make the Vinaigrette: In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, and red onion.
5. Dress and Serve: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat. Top with the sliced or diced grilled chicken.
6. Optional additions: Sprinkle with feta cheese, toasted nuts, or avocado slices for extra flavor and texture.

Tips and Variations:

• Grilling Indoors: If you don’t have a grill, you can easily cook the chicken in a grill pan on the stovetop or bake it in the oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes.
• Berry Boost: Experiment with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for added flavor and variety.
• Cheese Please: Substitute feta with goat cheese, blue cheese, or shaved Parmesan for a different cheesy twist.
• Nutty Goodness: Swap pecans and almonds with walnuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds.
• Make it Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add grilled halloumi cheese or chickpeas for a vegetarian alternative.
• Prep Ahead: You can grill the chicken and make the vinaigrette ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the spinach from getting soggy.

Enjoy this delicious and healthy Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Grilled Chicken! It’s a perfect way to brighten up any meal and nourish your body.