Spinach, Strawberry, and Goat Cheese Salad

Husband and I are in the suburbs this weekend to celebrate both my sister's birthday and Father's Day (see those two cuties below). I always find Saturdays to be quite pleasant in Wheaton; I love to take leisurely strolls with the dog around the neighborhood, sit and chat with my family, and grill out on the driveway with a beer in hand (my dad's favorite pastime).



Since Mother is throwing a shower for a family friend tomorrow, Husband and I will be preparing the Father's Day/birthday feast. Not sure what's in the works yet, but I really hope it involves grilling. Our grill has not yet made it downtown with us, so I'm pretty excited about using the grill out here. We definitely need a good cocktail to go with our grilled goods...maybe a Beermosa? Ha, Sis and I will have to teach that term to Dad, he'll love it (just like he loved the terms "emo", "chandelier earrings", and "lol").



I'm also thinking about making this salad again, which I made a few weeks ago when we had some fresh spinach lying around. It's really simple and adds a nice sweet touch to a savory main dish. Maybe we'll head down to the Wheaton farmer's market tomorrow morning to see if they have any spinach! Mmm, ideas...

Have a great weekend!



Spinach and Strawberry Salad

Salad
1 large bunch of spinach, washed well
A large handful of strawberries, sliced
A handful of slivered almonds
Goat cheese

Balsamic Vinaigrette
3/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup good quality balsamic vinegar*
1 small clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon minced shallot
1 tablespoon warmed honey

*After I mixed my vinaigrette and tasted it, I realized I wanted more vinegar to olive oil. I usually try to keep with the standard 3:1 oil to vinegar ratio, but it just didn't taste how I wanted it to taste. You might want more honey, or even some freshly ground pepper. Moral of the story: taste it first before you put it on your salad.

Place washed spinach in a large bowl. Sprinkle strawberries, slivered almonds, and goat cheese on the top to taste. Drizzle with vinaigrette, mix together, and serve.



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