Description
This Strawberry Salad is a fresh and colorful combination of juicy strawberries, crisp mixed greens, creamy goat cheese, toasted pecans, and thinly sliced red onion, all tossed in a sweet and tangy balsamic vinaigrette. It’s a perfect light lunch or elegant side dish that celebrates the flavors of summer.
Ingredients
Salad
- 5 cups mixed greens
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- ½ cup crumbled goat cheese
- ½ cup toasted pecans
- ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Balsamic Vinaigrette
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Assemble the salad base: Place the mixed greens into a large salad bowl, spreading them evenly as the base layer.
- Add toppings: Top the greens with sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, toasted pecans, and thinly sliced red onion. Optionally, add fresh basil leaves for extra flavor and aroma.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the salad ingredients.
- Toss and serve: Gently toss the salad to evenly coat all ingredients with the dressing, taking care not to bruise the strawberries or greens. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness.
Notes
- Feta cheese can be used as a substitute for goat cheese for a slightly different flavor.
- Adding grilled chicken breast can make this salad a more filling main course.
- Toasting the pecans brings out their nutty flavor and adds a pleasant crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
