Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, is known for her hearty, home-style cooking that brings comfort and joy to any table. While she’s famous for dishes like cheesy potatoes and decadent desserts, Ree also knows how to create lighter fare that’s just as satisfying and flavorful. One such example is her delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad, a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for any occasion.
This isn’t your average boring salad. The Pioneer Woman’s Strawberry Spinach Salad takes the classic combination of spinach and strawberries and elevates it with thoughtful additions and a signature Ree Drummond touch. It’s a salad that manages to be both light and substantial, sweet and savory, and incredibly easy to throw together.
Pioneer Woman Cookbook Cover
What makes this salad a standout? It starts with fresh, crisp spinach as the base, providing a healthy dose of greens. Then comes the star of the show: juicy, ripe strawberries, adding a burst of sweetness and beautiful color. But Ree doesn’t stop there. She incorporates a creamy, tangy element, often with crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese, which perfectly complements the sweetness of the berries and the earthiness of the spinach. For added texture and crunch, toasted nuts like pecans or almonds are sprinkled throughout.
The dressing is where the Pioneer Woman’s Strawberry Spinach Salad truly shines. It’s typically a light vinaigrette, often made with balsamic vinegar or a raspberry vinaigrette, which enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients without overpowering them. Sometimes, Ree might add a touch of honey or Dijon mustard to her vinaigrette for extra depth and complexity.
This salad is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect as a light lunch on its own, or as a side dish to grilled chicken, fish, or pork. It’s also a wonderful addition to potlucks and picnics, as it travels well and holds up beautifully even after being dressed. Imagine bringing this vibrant salad to your next summer barbecue – it’s sure to be a hit!
Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe in The Pioneer Woman Cooks: A Year of Holidays
While the exact recipe for Ree Drummond’s Strawberry Spinach Salad might vary slightly depending on her mood and available ingredients, the core elements remain the same: fresh spinach, sweet strawberries, creamy cheese, crunchy nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s a testament to her philosophy of simple, delicious cooking that celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients.
If you’re looking to add a refreshing and flavorful salad to your repertoire, the Pioneer Woman Strawberry Spinach Salad is a must-try. It’s a delightful dish that embodies Ree Drummond’s signature style: approachable, delicious, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Get ready to enjoy a salad that’s anything but ordinary!
