Our vegan version of the classic summer spinach features tangy vegan feta, savory Bacon Seitan, juicy, sweet strawberries and a simple vinaigrette you can whip up in seconds. Have it as your main dish, or serve it as a side for the perfect picnic lunch.
Strawberry Spinach and Bacon Salad
Fresh spinach, ripe strawberries, savory Bacon Seitan, crunchy walnut, tagny vegan feta… what more could you ask for in a delicious summer salad?
Ingredients
Quick Maple-Balsamic Vinaigrette:
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Salad:
- 1 5-ounce package Upton’s Naturals Bacon Seitan roughly chopped
- 6 cups spinach divided
- 1 cup sliced strawberries
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts
- thinly sliced red onion optional
- ¼ cup vegan feta optional
- freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- To make the dressing, add the balsamic, maple, olive oil, and salt to a small bowl or dressing shaker and whisk or shake until combined. Set aside. Alternatively, you can omit this dressing recipe and use plain balsamic vinegar or drizzle the salad with balsamic glaze, if you wish.
- Roughly chop the bacon and cook according to package instructions; set aside.
- Keep the same pan you cooked the bacon in over medium heat, add half of the spinach, drizzle with half of the dressing, and quickly toss to warm the spinach. Remove from the heat and add the remaining spinach and toss to combine.
- Divide the spinach between bowls or plates. Top each with strawberries, bacon, and walnuts. If using red onion, use the desired amount and add here; a little goes a long way.
- Drizzle with remaining dressing, if desired, and sprinkle with vegan feta and black pepper.