Refreshing Strawberry Balsamic Salad

Name: Refreshing Strawberry Balsamic Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed salad greens (like spinach and arugula); 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

When summer arrives, I can’t resist making a refreshing strawberry balsamic salad. The sweet and tangy flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that feels light yet satisfying. I love how the vibrant colors of ripe strawberries and crisp greens come together, transforming my kitchen into a summer paradise. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for spontaneous gatherings or a quick lunch. I’m excited to share this delightful salad that will surely brighten up your table.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-09T17:01:28.090Z

Creating this salad was an experiment with fresh, crisp ingredients that led to a flavorful explosion in each bite. I started with organic strawberries, which were incredibly sweet and juicy, elevating the overall taste. To balance the sweetness, I added a splash of balsamic vinegar and a drizzle of olive oil, which created a perfect harmony of flavors.

One unexpected tip I picked up along the way is ensuring the salad dressing is added just before serving. This keeps the greens from wilting and allows every component to shine. It’s truly rewarding to see everyone enjoy it every time I serve it at gatherings!

Why You Will Love This Salad
Vibrant colors and refreshing flavors that awaken the palate
Simple ingredients that come together in a quick and easy salad
Perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess with a delightful crunch

Choosing the Right Strawberries

When making this Refreshing Strawberry Balsamic Salad, the quality of your strawberries is crucial for a vibrant flavor profile. Choose strawberries that are bright red with a shiny exterior and a sweet aroma. Avoid those that are dull, bruised, or overly soft, as they might taste sour or mushy. If you can, opt for organic strawberries to enhance the freshness and cut down on pesticides, which can affect the salad's overall healthiness.

Make sure to wash your strawberries just before slicing to prevent them from becoming mushy. I recommend hulking them with a sharp paring knife, as this helps maintain the structure of the fruit. Slicing them just before you're ready to serve ensures they stay juicy and intact, avoiding unnecessary moisture loss.

Balancing the Dressing

The dressing plays a vital role in tying all the flavors of this salad together. The balsamic vinegar provides acidity, while honey adds sweetness, creating a balanced flavor that complements the strawberries. Adjusting these elements can help you create a dressing that matches your personal taste. For extra tang, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a dash of Dijon mustard. If you're looking for a vegan alternative to honey, agave syrup or maple syrup works beautifully.

Whisking the dressing just until emulsified — that’s when the oil and vinegar mix — is key to achieving a glossy sheen. Keep a close watch to avoid over-mixing, which can break the emulsification and separate the oil from the vinegar. You want a cohesive dressing that clings to the greens and strawberries for optimal flavor.

Serving and Storing Tips

To serve, I like to drizzle the dressing over the salad just before it hits the table to keep the greens crisp. Toss gently to avoid bruising the greens and strawberries, and add the toasted almonds and feta at the last moment to maintain their textures. If you want to prepare the salad in advance, consider storing the dressing separately and only combining everything right before serving to ensure freshness.

If you have leftovers, it's best to store the components separately. Keep the salad greens and strawberries in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The dressing can be refrigerated for about a week, making it easy to make this delicious salad multiple times. Just give the dressing a good whisk before using to re-emulsify any separation that may have occurred.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups mixed salad greens (like spinach and arugula)
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens and sliced strawberries. Gently toss to mix without bruising the strawberries.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving, and toss gently. Top with toasted almonds and crumbled feta cheese. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding thinly sliced red onions or a sprinkle of fresh basil to the salad before serving.

Variations and Add-Ons

This salad is highly adaptable, so feel free to add your favorite ingredients. Chopped cucumbers can add a refreshing crunch, while avocados contribute creaminess that contrasts nicely with the tangy dressing. For an extra protein boost, grilled chicken or chickpeas can make this salad a satisfying meal on its own.

If you're looking for a nut-free version, consider swapping the sliced almonds with toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Both options provide a delightful crunch without the allergens. You could also try omitting the cheese entirely for a dairy-free salad, or experiment with nuts and cheese alternatives to fit your dietary preferences.

Nutritional Benefits

This Refreshing Strawberry Balsamic Salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it is also packed with nutritional benefits. Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, which play a crucial role in boosting your immune system. The greens provide fiber and essential nutrients, making this salad a healthy addition to your diet.

The sliced almonds offer healthy fats and protein, while the feta cheese adds a creaminess as well as calcium. If you substitute with more nutrient-dense options like quinoa or lentils, you can increase the protein content even further. This means you can enjoy a delicious meal while also feeling good about what you're eating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

It's best to prepare the salad ingredients in advance but add the dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are ideal, you can use thawed frozen strawberries, but the texture may be softer.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or omit the cheese entirely for a dairy-free version.

→ How long will the salad last in the refrigerator?

The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if stored properly, it can last for 1-2 days in the refrigerator without the dressing.