Crispy Brie & Strawberry Spinach Salad

This crispy brie and strawberry spinach salad is one of my favorite ways to enjoy a balance of flavors and textures in one dish. I love how the warm, crispy brie pairs with sweet roasted strawberries, fresh spinach, and a tangy balsamic dressing. It’s fresh, elegant, and satisfying enough to serve as a starter or a light main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes a simple spinach salad and makes it exciting with crispy brie bites and roasted strawberries. The dressing is perfectly balanced with sweet, savory, and tangy notes, and the almonds add just the right amount of crunch. It feels restaurant-worthy, but I can put it together easily at home.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

The Fresh Stuff
4 ounces baby spinach washed
2 cups roasted strawberries

The Dressing
2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp pure maple syrup optional
1 clove garlic smashed
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

The Toppings
1/4 cup slivered almonds
4 Fromger d’Affinois Crispy Brie Bites

Directions

1. I start by roasting the strawberries at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, until they’re soft and caramelized.
2. While the strawberries roast, I whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup (if using), garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. I arrange the spinach on a large serving platter or individual plates.
4. Once the strawberries are done, I let them cool slightly before adding them to the salad.
5. I prepare the crispy brie bites according to package instructions, usually baking until golden and crisp.
6. I top the salad with roasted strawberries, crispy brie bites, and slivered almonds.
7. I drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4 people as a side salad or 2 as a main course. It takes around 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to roast the strawberries, so I can have it ready in about 35 minutes total.

Variations

Sometimes I swap roasted strawberries for fresh ones when I want a lighter salad. I also like adding blueberries or blackberries for extra color and flavor. For a nut-free option, I replace almonds with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. If I don’t have crispy brie bites, I use baked goat cheese rounds or pan-fried halloumi instead.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh. I store leftover dressing in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, but I keep the spinach, strawberries, and brie separate until serving so the salad doesn’t get soggy. The crispy brie is best eaten right away, but I can reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to bring back the crunch.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

I prepare the dressing and roast the strawberries ahead, then assemble everything just before serving.

Do I have to roast the strawberries?

No, I sometimes use fresh strawberries for a brighter, fresher flavor.

What can I use instead of brie bites?

I like baked goat cheese rounds, halloumi, or even mozzarella sticks as alternatives.

Can I use a different dressing?

Yes, a honey mustard or poppy seed dressing also pairs nicely with this salad.

Can I make this nut-free?

Yes, I substitute pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for the almonds.

What’s the best way to roast strawberries?

I spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 375°F for about 20 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized.

Can I serve the brie bites cold?

They taste best warm and crispy, but they’re still good at room temperature.

Can I make the dressing sweeter?

Yes, I add more maple syrup or even a little honey if I prefer extra sweetness.

Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes, I just scale up all the ingredients and serve it on a large platter.

Conclusion

I love how this crispy brie and strawberry spinach salad combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite. The contrast of roasted strawberries, crunchy almonds, and melty brie makes it a standout dish that feels both comforting and refined. It’s a salad I reach for when I want something fresh, flavorful, and a little bit indulgent.

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