Summer Strawberry Salad Balsamic

This Summer Strawberry Salad bursts with the sweetness of ripe berries, a creamy cheese tang, and the brightness of greens, finished off with a lively balsamic vinaigrette. I make this whenever I want something light but satisfyingly decadent on a hot afternoon, especially if I have friends coming over for a quick alfresco lunch.

I first shared this salad at a family barbecue on a sweltering July day and not a single leaf was left in the bowl. Since then I keep it on repeat all summer long

Ingredients

• Fresh strawberries: add a burst of juicy sweetness and vibrant color look for berries that are deep red and fragrant
• Baby spinach or spring mix: brings crisp fresh greens and holds up well to dressing opt for organic if possible
• Cucumber or red onion: adds a refreshing or pungent crunch choose firm cucumbers or onions with tight skins
• Goat cheese or feta: gives creaminess and tang choose a log of goat cheese or crumbly feta for best texture
• Toasted nuts such as pecans walnuts or almonds: add crunch and nutty flavor toast just before serving for maximum aroma
• Avocado slices: make it extra creamy and satisfying look for ripe but still firm avocados
• Additional fruits like blueberries or nectarines: keep things summery and colorful
• Extra virgin olive oil: forms the backbone of the dressing use a raw robust oil for best flavor
• Balsamic vinegar: brings sweetness and depth quality aged balsamic makes a difference
• Honey or maple syrup: rounds out the sharpness with gentle sweetness local honey has floral notes
• Dijon mustard: helps emulsify and gives a mellow tang
• Salt and pepper: tie everything together use flaky sea salt and fresh ground pepper if you have them

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Vinaigrette:

Whisk olive oil balsamic vinegar honey or maple syrup Dijon mustard salt and pepper in a small jar or bowl until creamy and fully blended taste and adjust seasoning to your liking

Prep the Greens:

Gently wash and spin dry baby spinach or spring mix lay them out in a large salad bowl or arrange on a wide serving platter for a pretty presentation

Layer the Goodies:

Scatter sliced strawberries over the greens followed by thinly sliced cucumber or onion tuck in crumbled cheese then sprinkle on toasted nuts for texture and richness

Add Optional Fruits and Avocado:

Fan out sliced avocado and any extra fruits such as blueberries or nectarines for more color and flavor

Dress and Toss:

Drizzle the vinaigrette just before serving over the assembled salad and use your hands or large salad forks to gently toss everything so the dressing coats evenly without bruising the greens

Pin

Every time I add toasted pecans to this dish I remember the year I started roasting my own in the oven just to make salads something I craved instead of dreaded My sister says it is the one salad where she will always eat the greens thanks to the strawberries

Storage Tips

This salad holds up best if you keep components apart until just before serving Store the dressing in a jar in the fridge and the berries and greens separately in airtight containers If you have leftovers already tossed together eat within a day to avoid soggy greens

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegan feta or omit cheese for a dairy free version Swap spinach for arugula if you want a peppery punch If you need nut free crunch try roasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds The vinaigrette works with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a different vibe

Serving Suggestions

For a meal add grilled chicken shrimp or chickpeas to bulk up the protein Serve as a bright opener at a summer picnic alongside grilled corn or a tomato tart This salad also shines on a brunch buffet especially with sparkling water or iced tea

Cultural and Seasonal Notes

Strawberry salads appear in many cuisines wherever fresh berries are in season The balance of fruit cheese and greens is classic French but the addition of toasted nuts and rich balsamic is a modern twist I find this salad brings just as much delight at a casual barbecue as it does at a dressed up garden party

Recipe FAQs

→ What greens pair best with strawberries in this salad?

Baby spinach or spring mix greens bring a tender bite and mild flavor, perfectly complementing the sweetness of strawberries.

→ Can I use a different cheese instead of goat cheese or feta?

Yes, crumbled vegan feta is a great dairy-free alternative. You can also experiment with blue cheese or fresh mozzarella for variety.

→ How do I make the balsamic vinaigrette?

Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until fully blended.

→ What nuts work well in this salad?

Pecans, walnuts, or almonds add crunch and richness. Toasting the nuts intensifies their flavor.

→ How can I turn this salad into a meal?

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for protein. Avocado or extra fruits like blueberries offer more variety and substance.

→ What additions provide extra crunch?

Top with homemade croutons or sunflower seeds for added texture and a satisfying bite.