When the first strawberries of the season start to appear, it feels like a celebration of all things fresh and joyful. Strawberry Salad is one of those timeless recipes that captures the magic of warm days and cool breezes in every colorful bite. Growing up, my grandmother would gather strawberries from her garden, their sweetness intensified by the sun, and mix them into salads that were as vibrant as they were delicious. It was her way of welcoming summer and inviting everyone to linger a little longer around the table.

Strawberry Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a tradition of savoring nature’s bounty at its peak. Whether it’s a backyard picnic, a festive brunch, or a simple family dinner, this salad makes an occasion feel extra special. It combines juicy strawberries with crisp greens, creamy cheese, crunchy nuts, and a light dressing that ties it all together with a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Every forkful tastes like sunshine, and I promise, once you try it, it will become a cherished part of your seasonal menu too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with flavor: Sweet strawberries, creamy cheese, and a tangy dressing create an irresistible taste.
• Quick and easy: This salad comes together in minutes with minimal prep.
• Perfect for any occasion: Ideal for lunches, dinners, parties, and potlucks.
• Customizable: Swap out nuts, cheese, or greens to suit your preferences or what’s in season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 6 cups spring greens or baby spinach
• 1 ½ cups sliced fresh strawberries
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
• ½ cup candied pecans or walnuts
• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup balsamic vinaigrette or poppy seed dressing

How to Make Strawberry Salad

Making this Strawberry Salad is as joyful as eating it. Each step is simple, letting the fresh ingredients shine without fuss.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the base.
Start by arranging your spring greens or baby spinach in a large serving bowl. I like using a mix for extra texture and flavor.

Step 2: Add the strawberries.
Scatter the sliced strawberries generously over the greens. Choose berries that are ripe but firm for the best texture and sweetness.

Step 3: Sprinkle the cheese.
Crumble feta or goat cheese over the top. The creaminess of the cheese plays so beautifully against the juicy berries.

Step 4: Toss in the crunch.
Add candied pecans or walnuts for a sweet, toasty crunch that makes the salad feel hearty and satisfying.

Step 5: Add the onion.
Thinly slice a quarter of a red onion and distribute it lightly. The onion’s sharpness balances the salad’s sweetness perfectly.

Step 6: Dress it up.
Drizzle with a good-quality balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy poppy seed dressing just before serving. A little goes a long way—toss lightly to coat.

Step 7: Serve and enjoy.
This Strawberry Salad shines best when served immediately. It’s colorful, crisp, and absolutely delicious.

Helpful Tips

• Choose the freshest strawberries you can find. Their natural sweetness is key.
• Chill the salad ingredients slightly before assembling to keep everything crisp and refreshing.
• Use a gentle hand when tossing the salad to avoid bruising the berries.
• Make it a meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even some lamb for extra protein.
• Customize with what you have. Try different nuts, seeds, or even slices of avocado for extra richness.

Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

You can easily double or triple this Strawberry Salad recipe for larger gatherings. Always dress the salad right before serving to keep the greens crisp and lively.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 10g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Strawberry Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep all the ingredients ahead, but assemble and dress just before serving to keep it fresh.

What other dressings work well?
A lemon vinaigrette, honey mustard, or even a light raspberry vinaigrette would pair wonderfully.

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are best for this salad. Frozen ones can become watery and mushy.

Storage Instructions

Store any undressed components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Once dressed, the salad is best enjoyed immediately.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Strawberry Salad, you might also enjoy:

• Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
• Deviled Egg Macaroni Pasta Salad
• Beet Salad with Feta, Cucumbers, and Dill
• Balsamic Strawberry Caprese: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Salad

Conclusion

Strawberry Salad is pure joy in a bowl—a dish that brings color, sweetness, and a touch of elegance to any meal. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself to a beautiful lunch, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Bright, fresh, and full of flavor, it’s summer captured in every delightful bite.

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