Salads & sides
Spinach strawberry and goat cheese salad with balsamic glaze and toasted pecans for brunch spreads.
A bright, balanced brunch salad that pairs tender spinach with juicy strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and a glossy balsamic glaze, accented by crunchy pecans and a whisper of citrus.
Published by
Frank Miller
July 23, 2025 - 3 min Read
Bright greens provide a fresh base for this brunch salad, where spinach leaves cradle slices of ruby strawberries and crumbles of tangy goat cheese. The nuts add a satisfying crunch, and the glaze ties everything together with a sweet-tinished acidity that wakes the palate. A touch of lemon zest enriches the greens without overpowering the fruit, while olive oil coats the leaves to lock in moisture and flavor. For serving, spread the leaves on a wide platter and arrange the strawberry slices in a circular pattern to catch the eye. This presentation signals a celebratory, easy-to-assemble dish.
Begin by selecting young, tender spinach with vibrant color, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry to keep textures crisp. Slice ripe strawberries into even coins for uniform mingling with the greens, ensuring each bite includes sweetness and a hint of tartness. Crumble goat cheese into small pearls that melt slightly as the salad rests, creating pockets of creaminess amid the leaves. Toast pecans until deeply fragrant and coarsely chop them for maximum crunch. Whisk a light vinaigrette using extra-virgin olive oil, a splash of balsamic, and a whisper of honey, balancing richness with brightness.
Brunch-friendly textures and seasonal notes elevate this dish.
The first bite should feel refreshing, then soften with the subtle tang of cheese and the toasted warmth of pecans. The balsamic glaze acts as a glossy ribbon, tying the components together while offering a concentrated sweetness that lingers pleasantly on the tongue. Use a light hand when dressing; aim for a glossy sheen rather than a saturated pool of oil. Allow the salad to rest a few minutes before serving so the flavors can mingle and the cheese can mellow into the greens. This small timing detail makes a big difference in texture and overall balance.
When assembling for brunch spreads, consider adding color with a few optional ingredients that complement but do not overshadow the core flavors. Thinly sliced fennel or citrus segments can brighten the plate and introduce a contrasting aroma. A handful of arugula can provide peppery notes if guests prefer more bite, while radish coins offer crunch and color. If you wish to elevate the dish, fold in microgreens just before serving to add a delicate, herbaceous layer. Keep the dressing separate until the last moment to preserve the salad’s crispness.
Elevate with protein choices and bright accents for balance.
The garlic-free vinaigrette keeps the salad approachable for a crowd with varying tastes, and the glaze can be prepared ahead of time for efficiency. To make life easier, keep the goat cheese crumbles in a small container and sprinkle just before serving, preventing clumping and preserving creaminess. Pecans can be toasted days in advance and stored in an airtight jar, ready to scatter over the salad. This approach makes the dish practical for entertaining, allowing you to conjure a restaurant-worthy plate without rushing. The result remains bright, inviting, and inherently versatile.
For a heartier brunch option, offer grilled chicken or salmon as a protein topper alongside the salad. The protein’s warmth contrasts nicely with the cool greens and juicy fruit, creating a balanced plate that satisfies both light eaters and those wanting substantial bites. If you prefer vegetarian fullness, try adding chickpeas or avocado slices to introduce protein and creaminess. A citrusy note, such as a squeeze of orange juice over the greens, can lift the flavors and brighten the overall impression. Ensure the components are evenly distributed for a cohesive bite every time.
Make-ahead tips keep brunch prep calm and flavorful.
The salad’s visual appeal is enhanced by careful plating: arrange spinach as a bed, nestle strawberry slices in groups, and scatter goat cheese pearls across the surface. Build layers with pecans on top so every forkful includes a satisfying crunch. The glaze should be applied in a light, decorative drizzle rather than a heavy coating; its sheen invites tasting without overpowering the fruit’s sweetness. If desired, finish with a final spray of lemon juice to sharpen the flavors just before presentation. A clean white plate or a rustic wooden board works beautifully for brunch displays.
When preparing ahead, assemble the greens and fruit separately, then combine with cheese and nuts just before guests arrive. This strategy preserves the crispness of the spinach and prevents sogginess that can dull the strawberries’ brightness. Store the components in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain texture and moisture. Re-toss gently with the dressing once assembled, making sure the glaze lightly glides over the greens. A sprinkle of sea salt just before serving can enhance all the flavors without turning the dish salty.
Friendly substitutions keep brunch adaptable and delicious.
The balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy elements is what makes this salad memorable. The strawberries provide a natural juiciness that contrasts with the goat cheese’s tang and the pecans’ crunchy warmth. A balsamic glaze contributes depth, echoing notes of caramelized fruit while echoing the acidity in the greens. The spinach’s leaf structure supports the heavier toppings and prevents the plate from becoming too soft. Serve portions with generous greens, ensuring each bite has a bit of each component for a cohesive experience.
For guests with dairy sensitivities, substitute a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip the cheese entirely, relying on the greens, nuts, and fruit to carry the flavor. A citrus-marinated onion sliver can provide a sharp bite that mimics some brightness without dairy. Consider a light sesame-ginger dressing if you want a different flavor direction while keeping the salad vibrant. The key is to maintain balance so no single element overwhelms the others. This flexibility helps the dish adapt to various dietary needs.
The spinach-strawberry-chevre combination remains a classic because it transitions well from casual brunch to formal buffet. The tanginess of goat cheese plays off the berries’ sweetness, while pecans bring a roasted, nutty finish that lingers on the palate. A well-made balsamic glaze adds a glossy sheen and a kiss of acidity that elevates the entire plate. Present this salad as a centerpiece or as a bright supporting dish to heavier brunch staples. The result is a memorable, refreshing course that invites seconds and conversation alike.
Crafting a balanced brunch platter with this salad invites guests to slow down and savor. The visual appeal, combined with varied textures, makes the dish enticing from the first glance to the last bite. Keeping components modular allows hosts to customize portions for different appetites. This evergreen recipe thrives across seasons, as strawberries vary with harvest and spinach remains a dependable green. By maintaining the core balance of sweetness, tang, and crunch, you ensure the salad remains a reliable crowd-pleaser for years to come.
