Are you ready to elevate your salad game? Strawberry Feta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is not just another leafy dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures! Did you know that adding fruits and nuts to salads can enhance their nutritional value and increase the enjoyment of your meal? This delightful salad combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tanginess of feta, making it an irresistible choice for summer days, family gatherings, or even busy weeknights. Let’s dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create!
Ingredients List
- One 5 oz package mixed greens of your choice
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 3 tablespoons glazed walnuts
- 1/4 cup homemade balsamic vinaigrette (you can use store-bought if you prefer)
- 4 tablespoons chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Suggestions for Substitutions:
- Instead of mixed greens, try arugula for a peppery kick.
- Swap feta for goat cheese for a creamier texture.
- Feeling adventurous? Add some sliced avocado for an extra creamy element.
Timing
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time (Glazed Walnuts): 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
This recipe takes only 20 minutes, which is 30% less time than many traditional salad recipes. Perfect for a quick, yet flavorful addition to your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Glazed Walnuts
- Place 4 tablespoons of chopped walnuts in a heavy-duty metal pan, preferably cast iron.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar over the walnuts.
- Over medium heat, stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Once the sugar has melted and the walnuts are coated, transfer them to a bowl and let cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Balsamic Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl, add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, and 1 minced garlic clove.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
- Slowly drizzle in the 1/2 cup of olive oil while whisking continuously.
- Keep whisking until the dressing thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens and diced strawberries.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and glazed walnuts over the top.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the salad.
- Toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are well-coated.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approx. 250 per serving
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
This salad not only delights your taste buds but also offers a well-balanced nutritional profile, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
Healthier Alternatives
- Use Greek yogurt instead of feta cheese for a protein boost and a creamy texture.
- Swap out granulated sugar for honey or maple syrup in the vinaigrette.
- Replace olive oil with avocado oil for added omega-3 fatty acids and a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Strawberry Feta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with toasted pita chips for a crunchy contrast. Consider adding a dash of chili flakes for a spicy twist!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using wilted greens: Always check that your salad greens are fresh for the best texture and flavor.
- Overdressing the salad: Start with a small amount of dressing; you can always add more if needed.
- Skipping the glaze: The glazed walnuts add a wonderful crunch and sweet flavor that balances the salad perfectly.
Storing Tips
If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately. Keep the mixed greens, strawberries, and any toppings in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The vinaigrette can also be stored separately and used within a week. This way, you maintain the freshness and crispness of each ingredient.
Conclusion
In summary, the Strawberry Feta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is an exquisite dish that will bring vibrant flavors to your table. It’s easy to prepare, nutritious, and versatile, making it a great addition to any meal. Give it a try, and let us know how your family enjoyed it! Don’t forget to share your feedback, and feel free to explore other delicious recipes on our blog.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving, you can prepare the components in advance and store them separately.
What if I don’t like feta cheese?
You can substitute feta with goat cheese or omit it entirely for a lighter version.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make great additions for extra protein.
Enjoy your culinary journey with this Strawberry Feta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette!
Print
Strawberry Feta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 5
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing salad combining sweet strawberries and tangy feta, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 package (5 oz) mixed greens of your choice
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tablespoons glazed walnuts
- 1/4 cup homemade balsamic vinaigrette
- 4 tablespoons chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the Glazed Walnuts: In a heavy-duty metal pan, place chopped walnuts and sprinkle with granulated sugar. Over medium heat, stir until the sugar dissolves and the walnuts are coated. Transfer to a bowl and let cool.
- Prepare the Balsamic Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic. Gradually whisk in olive oil until the dressing thickens. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, mix together the greens and diced strawberries. Add crumbled feta and glazed walnuts, then drizzle with vinaigrette. Toss gently to combine.
Notes
For alternatives, use arugula instead of mixed greens, or swap feta for goat cheese for a creamier texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: salad, strawberry, feta, balsamic vinaigrette, summer recipe, healthy lunch, side dish