Refreshing Strawberry Balsamic Salad

Name: Refreshing Strawberry Balsamic Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed greens; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and black pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love vibrant salads, and this Refreshing Strawberry Balsamic Salad has become one of my favorites! The combination of juicy strawberries and tangy balsamic dressing creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Each bite is bursting with freshness, thanks to the addition of crisp greens and crunchy nuts. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a fancy dinner, this salad always impresses. Plus, it comes together in just minutes, making it the perfect choice when I want something quick yet delicious!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-09T15:30:28.202Z

I remember the first time I made this salad; the colors and aromas filled my kitchen with excitement. The balance of sweet strawberries and tangy balsamic is simply exquisite. It requires minimal preparation but delivers maximal flavor, which is why it’s a staple in my meal rotation.

While experimenting with the ingredients, I discovered that adding toasted almonds not only enhances the texture but also complements the sweetness of the strawberries. Just a quick toast in the skillet brings out their nutty flavor, truly elevating the dish!

Why You'll Love This Salad
Bursting with fresh strawberry sweetness
Creamy feta adds a delightful contrast
Perfect as a light lunch or side dish

The Role of Ingredients

The choice of greens is essential for this Refreshing Strawberry Balsamic Salad. I recommend using a mix of baby spinach, arugula, and romaine for a balance of tender leaves and a peppery kick. This variety not only contributes different textures but also enhances the overall flavor profile, ensuring that each bite remains interesting and fresh. If you're looking to experiment, try swapping in kale or even a spring mix for variety.

Fresh strawberries are the star in this recipe; opt for ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor. Look for berries that are fragrant and vibrantly colored. Avoid any that appear dull or mushy. If strawberries are out of season, you can substitute them with other fruits like peaches or blueberries, though make sure to adjust the dressing to complement the new flavors.

Dressing Tips

The balsamic dressing is simple but key to this salad's appeal. When whisking the dressing, take care to blend the oil with the vinegar until it's slightly emulsified and starts to thicken just a bit. A good visual cue is when it resembles a light syrup; this helps to coat the salad evenly. If you find the dressing too tangy, a teaspoon of honey can balance it out beautifully.

Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. I'd recommend shaking it well before each use, as the ingredients may separate. If you want to spice things up, try adding minced garlic or a pinch of Dijon mustard to the mix for an extra layer of flavor.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups mixed greens
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste

Make sure all produce is washed and dried thoroughly before assembling the salad.

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Adjust to taste if necessary.

Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta, and toasted almonds.

Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Serve immediately.

For best results, serve the salad immediately after dressing to keep the greens fresh and crisp.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the strawberries with blueberries or peaches for a delicious twist. Adding grilled chicken can turn this salad into a full meal.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing this salad ahead of time can be a great way to save time on busy days. You can slice the strawberries and mix them with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning. Store them separately from the greens and dressing, and keep everything refrigerated. Assemble the salad no more than a few hours before serving to maintain the crispness of the greens and freshness of the fruits.

If you want to add protein to transform this salad into a complete meal, consider grilled chicken or chickpeas. Both can be seasoned and cooked in advance, allowing you to just toss them in the salad when you're ready to eat.

Serving Suggestions

This salad makes an excellent light lunch, but it also shines as an accompaniment to grilled meats or seafood. Imagine pairing it with lemon-herb grilled chicken or seared salmon; the tangy strawberries contrast beautifully with savory flavors. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty grain dish like quinoa or farro.

Presentation matters too! To serve, consider layering the salad in jars for a picnic or meal prep. Start with the dressing at the bottom, followed by the firmer ingredients like almonds and feta, and top with the greens and strawberries. Shake it up when you're ready to enjoy, and it's a delightful, fresh meal on the go!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness of the greens. However, you can prepare the dressing and slice the strawberries in advance.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or omit the cheese entirely for a dairy-free version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but keep the dressing separate until ready to eat.

→ Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes! Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can also work well in this salad.