Spring is in the air, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a vibrant and refreshing Spring Salad with Strawberries and Balsamic Vinaigrette? This delightful dish combines the crispness of mixed greens with the sweetness of ripe strawberries, the creaminess of feta cheese, and the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts—all drizzled with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette that ties it all together. Perfect for a light lunch or as a stunning side dish for your next gathering, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. Ready to impress your guests or simply treat yourself? Let’s dive into the recipe that will elevate your spring dining experience!
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cold running water, using a salad spinner to remove excess moisture. Pat dry with clean paper towels to ensure crisp leaves.
- Rinse fresh strawberries and pat them dry. Hull the strawberries and slice them into thin, even pieces using a sharp knife.
- In a large salad bowl, gently spread the mixed greens as a base layer, creating an even and appealing foundation for the salad.
- Sprinkle the sliced strawberries evenly across the top of the mixed greens, distributing them for visual appeal and balanced flavor.
- Crumble the feta cheese over the salad, allowing small chunks to fall naturally across the greens and strawberries.
- Toast the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This will enhance their nutty flavor and add a slight crunch.
- Scatter the toasted walnuts over the salad, ensuring even distribution.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the salad, using a light hand to prevent overdressing.
- Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Gently toss the salad just before serving to mix the ingredients while keeping the greens crisp and fresh.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, select the freshest mixed greens and strawberries. Look for vibrant, crisp leaves and ripe, fragrant strawberries.
- Prep Ahead: You can wash and dry the mixed greens and slice the strawberries a few hours in advance. Just keep them in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the salad.
- Toast the Walnuts: Don’t skip toasting the walnuts! This step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the salad. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
- Dress with Care: When drizzling the balsamic vinaigrette, start with a small amount and add more to taste. You can always add more, but it’s hard to take it away if you overdress the salad.
- Toss Gently: When mixing the salad, toss gently to avoid bruising the greens. You want to keep them crisp and fresh for the perfect bite.
- Add a Twist: Feel free to customize your salad by adding other ingredients like avocado, grilled chicken, or even a sprinkle of sunflower seeds for extra texture and flavor.
- Season to Taste: Always taste your salad before serving. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to ensure every bite is perfectly balanced.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
