What's For Dinner: Strawberry Spinach Salad

May. There's a particular kind of gentle hum in the air, isn't there? The world outside seems to be stretching, unfurling its greenest greens and brightest blooms, a quiet invitation to slow down and simply... be. For me, these longer days and softer evenings aren't about adding more to the calendar, but often about finding the sacred in the ordinary – like a meal that tastes of sunshine and peace.

I confess, my ideal evening often involves a good book, a quiet corner, and something truly nourishing on my plate. And lately, with the strawberries just hitting their sweet peak, this particular salad has become a small, personal ritual. It’s not about culinary acrobatics; it's about the simple grace of fresh ingredients coming together, a gentle reminder that beauty and flavor don't need to be complicated to be profound. It’s a moment to pause, breathe, and appreciate the gifts of the season, a small act of gratitude whispered over a bowl of deliciousness.

Gathering the Ingredients (A Gentle Invitation)

• 5 cups fresh spinach, washed and patted dry (the good, tender kind)
• 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/2 cup pecans, lightly toasted and roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta (optional, but lovely)
• 2 tablespoons red onion, thinly sliced (if you’re feeling bold; otherwise, skip – no judgment here)

For the Balsamic Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for that gentle sweetness)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

The Gentle Art of Assembly (Instructions)

1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, toasted pecans, goat cheese (if using), and red onion (if using). Take a moment to admire the colors – a small palette of May's bounty.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust to your preference. It’s a quiet alchemy.
3. Just before serving, drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently until everything is lightly coated. We’re aiming for a soft embrace, not a vigorous assault.
4. Portion onto plates and allow yourself a few moments of quiet enjoyment. This isn't just food; it's an opportunity for a peaceful interlude.

There’s something wonderfully grounding about creating a meal like this. It asks so little of us, yet gives so much in return: sustenance for the body, and a comforting quiet for the soul. In a world that often rushes us, finding these pockets of calm, these simple blessings, feels like a small act of rebellion – a gentle, thankful rebellion. May it bring you a moment of peace, too.

Tell me, in these busy days, what simple rituals or dishes help you find a moment of stillness and gratitude?

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Photo by Carl Tronders (@tronderslarsson)

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