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–+ servings

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Mozzarella Hearts

Casey Rooney
This strawberry spinach salad with mozzarella hearts is fresh, slightly sweet, and perfect for Valentine’s Day or anytime you want a meal that feels special. Juicy strawberries, fresh spinach, and cute little mozzarella hearts come together with a smooth balsamic dressing that feels festive without being complicated. It is easy to make, beautiful on the plate, and great for sharing...and don't worry, the mozzarella hearts are a cinch to make!
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Appetizer, Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Equipment

Ingredients
  

For the creamy balsamic dressing

  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp. mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp. honey
  • 1/4 tsp. coarse salt (sea salt, kosher salt)

For the strawberry spinach salad

  • 10 oz. baby spinach about 5-6 cups, loosely packed
  • 1-2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 16-20 fresh mozzarella balls (Ciliegine) these are about the size of a cherry tomato and can typically be found in the deli or cheese section at the grocery store.
  • 1/2 cup candied pecans

Instructions
 

  • Make the dressing: In a small bowl or medium-sized jar, add the dressing ingredients. Whisk or shake until combined.
  • Make the mozzarella hearst: Preheat oven to 350°F. Make sure each mozzarella ball is free from moisture by blotting with a paper towel. Then, place one mozzarella ball in each mold.
    Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes or until just soft enough to spread. With the back of a spoon, press the softened mozzarella into the mold, pressing down gently. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes or until cool, then carefully unmold each skull. Note: For detailed instructions and step-by-step photos, go to this post: How to make mozzarella cheese hearts.
  • Assemble: To a large salad platter, add spinach, strawberries, and red onion. Place mozzarella hearts decoratively around the salad. Finish by drizzling on the dressing and sprinkling on the candied nuts.

Notes

  • Swap the dressing: This creamy balsamic dressing is my go-to, but it's also great with this lemon poppyseed dressing.
  • Fresh strawberries: Since this salad has so few ingredients, every ingredient shines! If you can't find super ripe, juicy strawberries, just toss them with a bit of sugar to bring out the sweetness a bit.
  • Storage: This salad will last a couple of days in the fridge if it's not dressed. You can prep everything in advance and then assemble it and toss it with the dressing when you're ready to serve.