I've been on a bit of a fruit-in-my-salad kick, mostly because this summer the fruit has been so sweet and delicious and I can't stop buying it - which means I need to find creative ways to eat it all! This strawberry and spinach salad with goat cheese, walnuts and pumpkin seeds is a simple, nutritious meal that's perfect for summer! Did you know that both pumpkin seeds and walnuts are good sources of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids? I like to sprinkle these on my salads for a hearty crunch that offers filling protein and healthy fats. Just drizzle this simple salad with some dressing and you have a quick and nutritious lunch. I paired it with my Homemade Lemon Dijon Dressing, but any dressing works!
Ingredients (serves 1):
2 C baby spinach, packed (or you can mix in other greens)
5 medium strawberries, sliced
2 Tbsp pumpkin seeds, hulled (either unsalted or lightly salted)
2 Tbsp walnut halves and pieces, raw, unsalted
1 oz goat cheese, crumbled (about 2 Tbsp)
1/2 C cucumber, chopped
1/4 C bell pepper, chopped
1/4 C onion, chopped
Directions:
1. Place spinach in large bowl.
2. Top with sliced strawberries, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, cucumber, bell pepper and onion. Sprinkle goat cheese on top and drizzle dressing of choice over salad. That's it!
Nutritional Analysis Per Serving:
Calories 332 calories, Total Fat 23 g, Saturated Fat 6 g, Cholesterol 10 mg, Carbohydrates 21 g, Fiber 5 g, Protein 13 g, Sodium 156 mg, Calcium 119 mg
*Nutritional Analysis does not include dressing
*Please Note: While this dish is free from gluten-containing ingredients, I recommend using certified gluten free products if you need to avoid potential sources of cross contamination, such as in the case of celiac disease.