This Easy Summer Strawberry Salad is a fresh delight, perfect for sunny days. With ripe strawberries, crunchy greens, and a sprinkle of nuts, it’s colorful and refreshing!
To be honest, this salad makes me feel like a gourmet chef, and it’s so easy! Just toss the ingredients together, and you’ve got a dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to make!
I love serving it with a light dressing and a side of grilled chicken. It’s simple, healthy, and always impresses family and friends at summer picnics!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Salad Greens: A blend like spinach, arugula, and red leaf adds great texture. If you can’t find them, use any favorite leafy greens like romaine or kale. Just avoid very bitter greens, as they can overpower the dish.
Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries are a must for sweetness. If they’re out of season, consider using other fruits like raspberries or peaches. They’ll give a similar bright flavor.
Mandarin Oranges: These add sweetness and a citrus zing. Canned mandarins are easy, but fresh segments work wonderfully too. For a twist, you could try grapefruit or orange slices.
Pecans: Toasted pecans provide crunch. Walnuts or sliced almonds can be great alternatives if you’re in a pinch. If nuts are an issue, try crispy chickpeas for a crunch without the allergens.
Feta Cheese: It brings a salty, creamy touch. If you’re not a fan, goat cheese or even grated Parmesan can be a nice substitution, adding a different flavor profile.
How Do I Make the Dressing Just Right?
The dressing ties the salad together, and it’s simple to whip up! Here’s how to make it flavorful:
- Start by mixing the olive oil, honey, and vinegar in a bowl. Use a whisk to combine them well.
- Add Dijon mustard, which gives depth and creaminess to the dressing.
- Don’t forget salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of each and adjust according to your preference!
- If the dressing seems too thick, thin it out with a splash of water or more vinegar for a tangier kick.
Store any extra dressing in a jar in the fridge—it can last about a week! Just shake it well before using again.
Easy Summer Strawberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as baby spinach, arugula, and red leaf lettuce)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/3 cup sliced pecans, toasted
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy dish to whip up. You’ll spend a few minutes washing and slicing your ingredients, and the dressing comes together in a flash. Perfect for those warm summer days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, add the mixed salad greens first. Then, gently toss in the sliced strawberries, mandarin orange segments, fresh blueberries, sliced green onions, toasted pecans, and crumbled feta cheese. Be sure to mix them all together gently so the fruits and nuts are evenly distributed among the greens.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar (or white balsamic vinegar), and Dijon mustard. Using a whisk or a lid, mix vigorously until everything is well blended and the dressing looks smooth. Don’t forget to season it with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste!
3. Combine and Serve:
Right before you’re ready to serve the salad, drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together gently to make sure the greens and fruits are evenly coated with the dressing. This will help keep the salad fresh and crunchy when served!
4. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing, vibrant summer salad. It’s perfect on its own or as a side dish with grilled meats. Enjoy the sweet, tangy flavors of the season!
FAQ for Easy Summer Strawberry Salad
Can I Use Frozen Fruits in This Salad?
While fresh fruits are best for texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries and blueberries if needed. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. It’s best to keep the salad and dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting. If mixed, consume quickly for the best texture.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad ingredients a few hours in advance but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This will help maintain the freshness of the greens and fruits.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If feta isn’t your favorite, you can easily substitute it with goat cheese or even a dairy-free cheese if you prefer. For a nutty flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan. Just pick what you enjoy most!
