Easy Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing

This refreshing Strawberry Salad combines sweet, juicy strawberries with crisp mixed greens, tangy feta, and crunchy nuts, all brought together with a simple, homemade balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish.

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Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salad

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 cups fresh ripe strawberries Choose firm, sweet berries for the best flavor and texture.
8 cups mixed salad greens A blend of spinach and lettuce works well; wash and dry thoroughly.
0.5 medium red onion Slice thinly for a milder taste, or soak in ice water for 10 minutes to reduce pungency.
0.33 cup pecan pieces or chopped walnuts or sliced almonds Lightly toast the nuts in a dry pan for a few minutes to enhance their flavor and crunch.
0.33 cup crumbled feta cheese Adds a salty, tangy counterpoint to the sweet strawberries. Goat cheese is a good alternative.
0.25 tsp Freshly ground black pepper Grind just before serving for the freshest aroma and flavor.

Vinaigrette Dressing

2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar A good quality aged balsamic will provide a richer, more complex flavor.
2 tablespoons dijon mustard Acts as an emulsifier and adds a zesty kick to the dressing.
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey Adjust the amount to your desired level of sweetness.
0.25 teaspoon kosher salt Kosher salt dissolves well and provides a clean salty taste. Adjust to taste.
6 tablespoons olive oil Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor in your dressing.

Equipment

Large Bowl
Whisk

Method

Prepare the salad ingredients: Wash and dry the mixed salad greens thoroughly. Slice the strawberries and thinly slice the red onion. Crumble the feta cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk together the aged balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, maple syrup (or honey), and kosher salt until well combined.
Gradually drizzle in the olive oil while continuously whisking until the dressing is emulsified and smooth.
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, sliced strawberries, red onion, pecan pieces (or other nuts), and crumbled feta cheese.
Just before serving, drizzle the vinaigrette dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Notes

This salad is wonderfully versatile. Feel free to swap any of the nuts with your favorite option; toasting them briefly enhances their flavor. For a heartier main dish, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. The dressing can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Toss the salad with dressing just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.