This bright and refreshing summer salad features sweet strawberries, crisp greens, and a light dressing that brings it all together. It’s perfect for those sunny days!
Every time I make this salad, I feel like I’m eating a bowl of happiness! Adding a sprinkle of nuts or cheese makes it even better. Who knew healthy could taste so good? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Salad Greens: I love using a mix of baby spinach, arugula, and red leaf lettuce for a colorful base. If you’re out of these, any salad greens like romaine or kale would work. Just remember to wash and dry them well so the dressing sticks!
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are the star here, providing sweetness. If you can’t find fresh ones, opt for frozen strawberries that you’ve thawed and sliced. You could also substitute with other berries like raspberries or blackberries for different flavors.
Cheese: Feta adds a nice salty tang. If you’re not a fan, goat cheese or even shredded mozzarella makes a great substitute. For a dairy-free option, try using avocado or leave the cheese out altogether.
Pecans: Toasted pecans give a delightful crunch. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can bring that crunch without the nuts!
How Do I Make the Dressing Just Right?
The dressing is key to bringing the salad together. It’s super easy to make and can really elevate your dish!
- In a small bowl or jar, add olive oil, balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and Dijon mustard.
- Season with salt and fresh pepper to taste. Whisk well until it all comes together. If you’re using a jar, you can shake it to mix!
- Taste it! If it’s too tangy, add a bit more honey. If it’s too sweet, a splash of vinegar can balance it.
Making the dressing fresh is a small step that makes a huge difference in flavor!
Easy Summer Strawberry Salad with Fresh Greens
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed fresh salad greens (like baby spinach, arugula, and red leaf lettuce)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup mandarin orange segments (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup pecans, toasted
- 2 green onions, sliced (both white and green parts)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take around 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes washing and slicing your ingredients, and then just mix everything together. Quick and tasty—a perfect summer dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Base:
Start by washing and drying your mixed greens thoroughly. In a large salad bowl, combine the greens with the sliced strawberries, mandarin orange segments, fresh blueberries, and sliced green onions. This colorful mix will be the base of your salad!
2. Add Crunch and Flavor:
Sprinkle the toasted pecans and crumbled cheese (feta or goat) over the salad. The pecans add a delightful crunch, while the cheese brings a creamy, salty flavor that complements the sweetness of the fruits.
3. Whip Up the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or red wine vinegar), honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Make sure to mix it well until everything is nicely blended!
4. Dress the Salad:
Right before you’re ready to serve, drizzle the dressing over the salad. This ensures the greens stay crisp and fresh. Toss everything gently to coat all the ingredients evenly in the beautiful dressing.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
Enjoy this vibrant, fruity salad immediately. It’s perfect as a light meal or as a side dish for any summer gathering. Dig in and relish the flavors of summer!
Happy eating! 🍓🥗
FAQ for Easy Summer Strawberry Salad
Can I Use Frozen Fruits in This Salad?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries or blueberries! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the salad. Fresh fruits offer a better texture, but frozen will work in a pinch!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese option. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey for the dressing. The salad will still be delicious and satisfying!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
While this salad is best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Store the washed greens and chopped fruits in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat the leftovers to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.
