Servings : 4

Minutes : 40

Ingredients : 8

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup Freekeh (rinsed)
• 1 cup Strawberries (divided)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar
• 3 tablespoons Water
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Maple Syrup
• Sea Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)
• 8 cups Baby Spinach
• 1/4 cup Red Onion (thinly sliced)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cook the freekeh according to package directions and set aside to let cool slightly.
2. In a blender or food processor, add half of the strawberries, balsamic vinegar, water, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Slice the remaining strawberries.
4. Add the spinach, onion, and sliced strawberries to a large salad bowl. Add the cooked freekeh to the salad bowl.
5. Drizzle the dressing on top and toss to combine.
6. Serve and enjoy!

NOTES:

• Leftovers: This is best stored with the dressing separate from the salad. Refrigerate both in an airtight container for up to three days.
• Gluten-Free: Use quinoa instead of freekeh.
• No Freekeh: Use farro, spelt, or bulgar.

NUTRITION:

• Calories: 191
• Sugar: 5g
• Fat: 1g
• Protein: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Monounsaturated Fat: 0g
• Calcium: 93mg
• Carbs: 43g
• Iron: 3mg
• Fiber: 8g

Here are some variations of the Strawberry Spinach Freekeh Salad:

1. Fruity Nut Salad: Add chopped fresh mango, diced pineapple, and toasted pecans or almonds to the salad for a tropical twist. Use a light citrus vinaigrette dressing to complement the fruity flavors.
2. Berry Bliss Salad: Incorporate a mix of fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries along with the strawberries. Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy contrast.
3. Mediterranean Medley: Replace the balsamic dressing with a lemon-herb vinaigrette. Add sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired salad.
4. Grain-Free Option: For a grain-free version, substitute the freekeh with cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice. It will make the salad lighter and suitable for those on a grain-free or low-carb diet.
5. Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas to the salad to increase the protein content and make it a heartier meal.
6. Avocado Creaminess: Include sliced avocado to add a creamy texture and healthy fats to the salad. The avocado will complement the sweetness of the strawberries and the freshness of the spinach.
7. Asian Twist: Use a sesame-ginger dressing instead of the balsamic dressing. Add sliced water chestnuts, edamame, and mandarin orange segments for an Asian-inspired flavor profile.
8. Herbaceous Delight: Toss in some fresh chopped herbs like basil, mint, or cilantro to elevate the salad’s taste and aroma.
9. Spiced Roasted Vegetables: Roast some colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant with your favorite spices. Combine them with the strawberries, spinach, and freekeh for a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
10. Crispy Toppings: Sprinkle the salad with crunchy toppings like toasted sesame seeds, crushed pita chips, or crispy fried onions for added texture and flavor.
11. Honey Mustard Dressing: Swap the balsamic dressing for a homemade honey mustard dressing. Whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, and olive oil for a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
12. Tex-Mex Twist: Add black beans, diced avocado, and roasted corn to the salad for a Tex-Mex twist. Top with a zesty cilantro-lime dressing for a burst of flavor.