Take advantage of fresh berry season with this delicious Summer Strawberry Salad! This salad is a delightful mix of vibrant flavors and textures, perfect for picnics, barbecues, or light dinners. The combination of fresh strawberries, tangy blueberries, and creamy goat cheese makes it a standout dish. Plus, the sparkling orange vinaigrette adds a refreshing twist that will keep you coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This salad takes only 10 minutes to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
- Flavor Explosion: The mix of sweet strawberries, tart blueberries, and creamy goat cheese creates a mouthwatering combination.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at summer barbecues or enjoy it as a light lunch on its own.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad is both tasty and nourishing.
- Beautiful Presentation: The colorful ingredients make for an eye-catching dish that impresses guests.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Summer Strawberry Salad effortlessly, gather these essential tools.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large serving bowl
- Small jar with lid
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large serving bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to toss all ingredients easily without spilling.
- Small jar with lid: Perfect for shaking the dressing until well combined, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces spring mix
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup blueberries
– 1/2 cup mandarin oranges
– 1/2 cup pecans (unsalted)
– 3.5 ounces crumbled goat cheese
– 2 Tablespoons sliced green onions
– 1/2 cup orange sparkling juice (I used Sanpellegrino)
– 3 Tablespoons olive oil
– 2 Tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
– 1/2 Tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon pepper
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Summer Strawberry Salad
Step 1: Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large serving bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. Add the spring mix as the base.
2. Layer in the sliced strawberries, blueberries, mandarin oranges, pecans, crumbled goat cheese, and sliced green onions.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small jar with a lid:
1. Pour in the orange sparkling juice.
2. Add olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well mixed.
Step 3: Toss and Serve
Right before serving:
1. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl.
2. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
3. Serve immediately for a refreshing taste of summer!
How to Serve Summer Strawberry Salad
Summer Strawberry Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, picnic, or just a casual family dinner, this salad adds a refreshing touch to any meal.
As a Main Dish
- Pair it with grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
- Serve alongside quinoa for a nutritious vegetarian option.
As a Side Dish
- Complement grilled meats with this vibrant salad.
- Offer it at potlucks to delight guests with its colorful presentation.
On a Buffet Table
- Place it in the center of your buffet for eye-catching appeal.
- Allow guests to serve themselves for an interactive dining experience.
For Meal Prep
- Store it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
- Keep dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness.
How to Perfect Summer Strawberry Salad
To truly elevate your Summer Strawberry Salad, consider these helpful tips for perfecting flavors and textures.
- Choose ripe strawberries: Select bright red, firm strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Add fresh herbs: Toss in some mint or basil leaves to enhance the freshness of the salad.
- Balance flavors: Adjust the sweetness of the vinaigrette by adding more honey if needed.
- Toast pecans: Lightly toast pecans before adding them for an extra crunch and depth of flavor.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes before serving; this allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Summer Strawberry Salad
For an even more delightful meal, consider pairing your Summer Strawberry Salad with these tasty side dishes. Each dish complements the fresh flavors of the salad beautifully.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken grilled to perfection brings protein and flavor that pairs well with the salad’s freshness.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish with herbs offers a wholesome grain option that complements the fruity salad.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a savory contrast to the sweetness of strawberries.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and nutrition without overpowering the salad’s delicate flavors.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad mixed with vegetables can be a filling addition alongside your light summer offering.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses enhances your meal with variety and pairs well with both strawberries and nuts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Summer Strawberry Salad, be mindful of common mistakes to ensure the best flavor and presentation.
- Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using frozen or canned fruits can dull the vibrant flavors. Always opt for fresh strawberries and seasonal fruits for the best taste.
- Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can lead to a soggy salad. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.
- Not Chilling Ingredients: Serving warm ingredients can affect the overall freshness. Chill your salad mix and toppings before assembly for a refreshing dish.
- Ignoring Texture: A good salad combines various textures. Ensure you have crispy greens, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese for a satisfying bite.
- Forgetting Seasonings: A pinch of salt and pepper enhances flavors. Don’t skip these basic seasonings in your dressing to bring all the ingredients together.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crispness.
Freezing Summer Strawberry Salad
- It is not recommended to freeze this salad as it may compromise texture and flavor.
- Fresh fruits do not thaw well, leading to mushiness.
Reheating Summer Strawberry Salad
- Oven: Not recommended, as salads are best served cold or at room temperature.
- Microwave: Avoid microwaving. It will make greens wilted and unappetizing.
- Stovetop: Not applicable; this salad should be enjoyed fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I customize my Summer Strawberry Salad?
Yes! You can add different fruits like raspberries or blackberries, or switch goat cheese for feta.
How long does the Summer Strawberry Salad last?
The salad lasts about 2 days in the refrigerator if stored properly without dressing.
What can I substitute for goat cheese in this recipe?
You can use feta cheese or even crumbled blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
Is this Summer Strawberry Salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare all components ahead but keep the dressing separate until serving for best results.
Final Thoughts
This Summer Strawberry Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. With its blend of fresh fruits, nuts, and tangy cheese, it’s perfect for any summer gathering. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or dressings. Enjoy this refreshing dish as a side or a light main course!
Summer Strawberry Salad
Summer Strawberry Salad is the perfect dish to celebrate the vibrant flavors of fresh berries! Bursting with sweetness from ripe strawberries and tangy blueberries, this colorful salad is enhanced by creamy goat cheese and crunchy pecans. Drizzled with a sparkling orange vinaigrette, it’s an ideal addition to summer barbecues, picnics, or light dinners. Quick and easy to prepare in just 10 minutes, this salad not only dazzles the eyes but also delights the palate. Whether served on its own or as a side dish, you’ll find this refreshing blend of textures and flavors hard to resist!
- Total Time: 55 minute
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spring mix
- 1 cup sliced strawberries
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1/2 cup mandarin oranges
- 1/2 cup unsalted pecans
- 3.5 ounces crumbled goat cheese
- 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
- 1/2 cup orange sparkling juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large serving bowl, combine spring mix, sliced strawberries, blueberries, mandarin oranges, pecans, crumbled goat cheese, and green onions.
- In a small jar with a lid, combine orange sparkling juice, olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until well mixed.
- Just before serving, pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: For added flavor, use fresh herbs like mint or basil. Toast the pecans for extra crunch. Chill your salad for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.