Welcome to a burst of summer on your plate with our delightful Summer Salad with Strawberry Vinaigrette! This vibrant dish combines fresh, crisp greens with juicy strawberries, creamy feta, and crunchy walnuts, all drizzled with a homemade strawberry vinaigrette that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for a light lunch or as a stunning side dish at your next gathering, this salad is not only quick to prepare—taking just 15 minutes—but also a feast for the eyes and palate. Dive into this recipe and discover how to elevate your summer meals with a refreshing twist that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cold running water and pat dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Slice fresh strawberries into thin, uniform pieces, ensuring they are ripe and free from blemishes.
- In a small mixing bowl, prepare the vinaigrette by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper until the mixture is well combined and slightly emulsified.
- Toast the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until they become fragrant and lightly golden.
- In a large salad bowl, gently spread the mixed greens as a base layer, creating an even surface.
- Scatter the sliced strawberries evenly over the greens, followed by sprinkling the crumbled feta cheese.
- Drizzle the prepared strawberry vinaigrette over the salad, ensuring even coverage.
- Garnish the top of the salad with the toasted walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
- Serve immediately to maintain the freshness and crisp texture of the ingredients.
Tips
- Choose the Right Greens: For the best flavor and texture, opt for a mix of baby spinach, arugula, or romaine. The variety will add depth to your salad.
- Fresh Strawberries Are Key: Always select ripe, fresh strawberries for maximum sweetness. Look for bright red berries with a fragrant aroma.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the vinaigrette in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake before drizzling it over the salad.
- Customize Your Nuts: If you prefer, swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile. Toasting them enhances their crunch and taste!
- Serve Immediately: To keep the salad crisp, assemble it just before serving. This way, the greens stay fresh and the vinaigrette doesn’t wilt them.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas to the salad for an extra boost of protein.
- Experiment with Cheese: While feta adds a creamy tang, feel free to try goat cheese or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a unique twist. With these tips in hand, you're ready to create a stunning Summer Salad that will impress your family and friends!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 168kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 6mg
