Strawberry Salad is a light, fresh, and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with crunchy greens, creamy cheese, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for warm weather, this salad is a vibrant addition to any meal or a refreshing standalone dish. Whether served as a side salad, a potluck dish, or a light lunch, this Strawberry Salad offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet and savory combination: The sweet strawberries pair beautifully with the savory ingredients like cheese and nuts, creating a balanced and satisfying dish.
Refreshing and light: It’s a crisp, refreshing salad that’s perfect for warm days and pairs well with grilled meats or a light meal.
Quick and easy: With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this salad comes together in just 10-15 minutes.
Customizable: You can add or substitute various ingredients, such as different cheeses or nuts, based on your preference.
Healthy and nutritious: Packed with fresh fruit, greens, and healthy fats, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious.

Ingredients

For the salad:

4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, or romaine)
1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)
¼ cup sliced almonds or walnuts (optional)
2 tablespoons red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
½ avocado, sliced (optional)

For the dressing:

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the salad ingredients: Wash and dry the mixed greens. Hull and slice the strawberries. If using, slice the avocado and red onion.
Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, and any optional add-ins like feta cheese, nuts, red onion, or avocado.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well-combined and emulsified.
Toss the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated with the dressing.
Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing, flavorful strawberry salad.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add protein: To make this salad a complete meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.
Use different greens: You can substitute the mixed greens with other types of leafy greens, such as arugula, baby spinach, or even kale.
Swap the cheese: Instead of feta, you can use goat cheese, blue cheese, or even a shredded cheese like Parmesan for a different flavor.
Add fruit: Try adding other fruits like blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries for a mixed berry salad.
Dressing variations: Experiment with different dressings like a poppy seed dressing, honey mustard, or a citrus vinaigrette for a new flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store the leftover salad (without dressing) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Add the dressing just before serving.
Reheating: Since this is a cold salad, there’s no need to reheat. Just toss it again before serving if it has been stored.

Strawberry Salad

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid soggy greens.

Can I use frozen strawberries for this salad?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but if you only have frozen strawberries, thaw them and drain excess liquid before using.

Can I substitute the balsamic vinegar in the dressing?

Yes, you can use red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or white wine vinegar as a substitute for balsamic vinegar in the dressing.

Can I add nuts to the salad?

Yes, nuts like sliced almonds, walnuts, or pecans add crunch and richness to the salad. Feel free to adjust based on your preference.

How can I make the salad gluten-free?

This salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you avoid croutons or other gluten-containing add-ins.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, you can make the salad vegan by omitting the cheese or using a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also substitute the honey with maple syrup.

How long will the dressing last?

The dressing will last for up to 5 days in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good shake before using it again.

Can I make the dressing without Dijon mustard?

Yes, you can omit the Dijon mustard if you prefer a milder dressing. You can also substitute it with a teaspoon of lemon juice or a bit of garlic for extra flavor.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Try adding cucumbers, carrots, or bell peppers for more crunch and variety.

What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a side dish to a more substantial meal.

Conclusion

Strawberry Salad is a vibrant, light, and refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the savory flavors of cheese, nuts, and a tangy dressing. Whether served as a side salad or as a main course with added protein, it’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a warm day or as a healthy, flavorful addition to any meal. Simple to prepare and full of fresh ingredients, this salad will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.