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. Perfect as a light lunch or an elegant side dish, this salad combines vibrant flavors and textures with minimal preparation time.
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.
- Arrange Greens: Place the mixed greens in a large salad bowl to form the base of your salad.
- Add Toppings: Scatter the sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, toasted pecans, and thinly sliced red onion evenly over the greens. Add fresh basil leaves if using.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the salad ingredients evenly.
- Toss and Serve: Gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients and coat them with the dressing. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Notes
- Feta cheese can be used as a substitute for goat cheese if preferred.
- Adding grilled chicken can turn this into a more filling, protein-rich meal.
- Toasting the pecans before adding them enhances their flavor and crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American