Strawberry Salad

Name: Strawberry Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 cups mixed greens; 1 cup fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced); 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled); 1/4 cup walnuts (chopped); 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette; Salt and pepper to taste

Indulge in a vibrant strawberry salad that beautifully balances sweet and savory flavors. This refreshing dish is perfect for summer picnics or as a light meal. The combination of juicy strawberries, crisp greens, and a creamy dressing makes it irresistible. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, this salad not only delights the taste buds but also offers numerous health benefits. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!

Ingredients

2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with no cooking time required.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 180 calories, 12g of fat, 10g of carbohydrates, 5g of protein, and is rich in vitamins A and C. This information is based on a single serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Wash the mixed greens thoroughly and pat them dry.
Hull the strawberries and slice them into halves or quarters.
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens and sliced strawberries.
Add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts to the salad.
Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad ingredients.
Gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients evenly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Let the salad rest for about 5 minutes to enhance flavors.
Serve immediately on a chilled plate for a refreshing experience.
Enjoy your vibrant, delicious strawberry salad!

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or omit it for a dairy-free version. Use any type of nuts you prefer, like almonds or pecans. For a sweeter dressing, try using honey or maple syrup in your vinaigrette.

Serving and Pairings

This strawberry salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a fantastic side dish for summer barbecues. It also complements a light white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the greens can wilt. Freezing is not recommended, as it will alter the texture of the greens.

Cooking Mistakes

Using overripe strawberries can affect the flavor.
Not washing the greens properly may leave grit.
Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy.
Forgetting to season can result in bland flavors.
Chopping nuts too finely can lead to a loss of texture.
Assembling too early may cause the salad to wilt.
Not letting the salad rest can mean less flavor absorption.

Helpful Tips

Choose strawberries that are bright red and firm for the best flavor.
Use a mixture of greens for added texture and flavor.
Chill the salad bowls in advance for a refreshing touch.
Experiment with different dressings for variety.
Consider adding protein like grilled chicken for a heartier meal.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble them just before serving to keep the greens crisp.

What dressing works best with strawberry salad?

Balsamic vinaigrette is a classic choice, but citrus-based dressings or honey mustard dressings also complement the strawberries beautifully.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for texture and flavor, but if using frozen, let them thaw and drain excess moisture to avoid a soggy salad.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

You can prepare the ingredients in advance. However, keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Absolutely! Other berries like blueberries or raspberries, or even sliced kiwi, can enhance the flavor and presentation of your salad.

Conclusion

This strawberry salad recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a delightful way to enjoy fresh produce. Its vibrant colors and flavors make it a perfect addition to any meal. Try it out and enjoy the refreshing taste of summer in every bite!