This Strawberry Salad with Honey Vinaigrette is a refreshing and vibrant dish, perfect for a light lunch or a delightful starter. The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy toasted almonds, all drizzled with a tangy honey vinaigrette, creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice.

 

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Salad:

• Spring Mix Salad Greens: 5 oz (142 grams)
  A mix of tender, young leafy greens that provide a fresh base for the salad.
• Strawberries: 1/2 lb, hulled and sliced
  Adds a burst of sweetness and vibrant color to the salad.
• Feta Cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled (or goat cheese)
  Provides a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet strawberries.
• Red Onion: 1/4 cup, thinly sliced
  Adds a sharp, savory bite to balance the sweetness of the strawberries.
• Sliced Almonds: 1/2 cup, toasted
  Gives the salad a satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor.

For the Honey Vinaigrette:

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 1/4 cup
  A rich, flavorful oil that forms the base of the vinaigrette.
• Red Wine Vinegar: 1/4 cup (or to taste)
  Provides acidity that balances the sweetness of the honey.
• Honey: 2 tablespoons
  Adds sweetness and helps emulsify the dressing.
• Dijon Mustard: 2 teaspoons
  Adds a tangy flavor and helps to thicken the vinaigrette.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
  Enhances the overall flavor of the dressing.
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
  Adds a mild spice to the vinaigrette.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salad

1. Wash and Dry the Salad Greens:
   Rinse the spring mix salad greens under cold water and dry them thoroughly using a salad spinner or by patting them dry with paper towels.
   Ensuring the greens are dry will help the vinaigrette cling better to the leaves.
2. Slice the Strawberries:
   Hull and slice the strawberries into thin pieces. Set them aside.
   Slicing the strawberries thinly ensures they distribute evenly throughout the salad.
3. Prepare the Red Onion:
   Thinly slice the red onion. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes, then drain and pat dry.
   Soaking the onion reduces its sharpness, making it more pleasant in the salad.
4. Toast the Almonds:
   In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds, stirring frequently until they are golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and let them cool.
   Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch to the salad.

Step 2: Make the Honey Vinaigrette

1. Mix the Ingredients:
   In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar, 2 tablespoons of honey, 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
   The combination of vinegar, honey, and mustard creates a balanced vinaigrette with a nice blend of tangy and sweet flavors.
2. Whisk or Shake:
   Whisk the ingredients together until well combined, or if using a jar, screw the lid on tightly and shake vigorously until the dressing is emulsified.
   The vinaigrette should be smooth and well-blended, with no separation of oil and vinegar.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Combine the Ingredients:
   In a large salad bowl, add the spring mix salad greens. Top with the sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, and toasted almonds.
   Layering the ingredients ensures an even distribution of flavors in each bite.
2. Add the Vinaigrette:
   Just before serving, drizzle the honey vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently to combine, making sure all the ingredients are lightly coated with the dressing.
   Tossing the salad right before serving keeps the greens crisp and fresh.
3. Serve Immediately:
   Serve the salad immediately as a light lunch or as a side dish to complement your meal.
   This salad is best enjoyed fresh to appreciate the crispness of the greens and the juiciness of the strawberries.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 250 calories
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 4g

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries:
   Choose strawberries that are bright red and fragrant for the best flavor.
   Ripe strawberries add the perfect amount of sweetness to the salad.
2. Toast the Almonds Carefully:
   Keep a close eye on the almonds while toasting, as they can burn quickly. Stir frequently to ensure even browning.
   Properly toasted almonds add a delightful crunch without bitterness.
3. Adjust the Vinaigrette to Taste:
   If you prefer a tangier vinaigrette, add a bit more red wine vinegar. For a sweeter dressing, increase the honey slightly.
   Tasting the vinaigrette before adding it to the salad ensures it’s to your liking.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
   • You can prepare the components ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
2. What other cheese can I use instead of feta?
   • Goat cheese is a great alternative, offering a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.
3. How do I store leftovers?
   • Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. However, it’s best to consume it fresh for the best texture and flavor.
4. Can I add protein to this salad?
   • Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even quinoa can be added to make this salad a more filling main dish.

Conclusion