As I tossed the vibrant greens and sweet strawberries together, I could almost hear the summer sun dancing around me, beckoning for something fresh and light. This Easy Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing perfectly captures that seasonal essence, effortlessly blending juicy berries with crisp greens and a tangy homemade vinaigrette. Not only does it come together in minutes, making it a breeze for any busy home cook, but it’s also a delightful crowd-pleaser for gatherings, brunches, or lunch on the patio. Whether you serve it as a refreshing side or a light meal, this salad offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. So, are you ready to elevate your summer dining with this delicious creation?
Why is this salad a must-try?
Fresh and Vibrant: The combination of juicy strawberries and crisp salad greens brings a burst of color and flavor to your table, making every bite a delight.
Quick Preparation: This salad can be whipped up in just minutes, perfect for those busy days when you want something light yet satisfying.
Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it on its own or as a side to grilled chicken or a simple quiche for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Unique Flavor Profile: The tangy homemade vinaigrette enhances the sweetness of the strawberries, creating a refreshing twist that will leave your taste buds singing.
Seasonal Delight: Make the most of fresh, seasonal ingredients with this easy recipe—it’s ideal for summer gatherings or a healthy lunch!
If you’re looking for more seasonal inspiration, don’t miss our Christmas Salad Honey or Fall Harvest Salad.
Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing Ingredients
For the Salad
- Fresh Strawberries – The star of the dish, bringing sweetness and juiciness; choose bright red, firm berries for the best flavor.
- Salad Greens – The crunchy base of the salad; wash and dry them right before serving to maintain crispness.
- Red Onion – Adds a delicious kick to balance the strawberries’ sweetness; soak in cold water for 20 minutes to mellow its sharpness.
- Nuts (optional) – Offers a delightful crunch; toast them just before adding to preserve their flavor and prevent wilting the greens.
- Feta Cheese (optional) – Provides a creamy, tangy touch; crumbling it on top elevates the texture beautifully.
For the Vinaigrette
- Balsamic Vinegar – The foundation of the vinaigrette, adding a lovely acidity to the salad.
- Dijon Mustard – Imparts a subtle tang while helping to emulsify the vinaigrette for a creamy consistency.
- Maple Syrup – Adds just the right amount of sweetness; you can adjust it to suit your taste preferences.
- Olive Oil – Helps blend the dressing; opt for high-quality oil for the best flavor.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the salad and the dressing.
- Black Pepper – For adding seasoning and a touch of spice to taste.
Get ready to enjoy a delightful moment with this Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing that’s sure to impress!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Rinse and gently pat dry the fresh strawberries using a clean kitchen towel. With a sharp knife, remove the green tops, then slice each berry into quarters. Arrange the vibrant fruit on a large plate, showcasing their juicy sweetness, and set aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients for your Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing.
Step 2: Wash and Dry the Greens
Take your salad greens and place them in a large colander. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities, then spin or pat dry to retain their crispness. Aim for greens that are free from excess moisture, as this will keep your salad fresh and vibrant. Set the cleaned greens aside until ready to assemble.
Step 3: Soak the Red Onion
Slice the red onion thinly and place the slices in a bowl of cold water for about 20 minutes. This soaking method effectively mellows the sharpness of the onion, resulting in a nice balance of flavors in your salad. Once the time is up, drain the onion and give it a quick rinse to ensure it’s mild and ready for your salad.
Step 4: Toast the Nuts
If you’re using nuts for added crunch, heat a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the nuts and toast them for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let the toasted nuts cool before adding them to your Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing.
Step 5: Make the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and a pinch of kosher salt. Using a whisk, mix these ingredients until well blended. Gradually drizzle in the olive oil while continuously whisking, which will help emulsify the vinaigrette into a creamy consistency. Taste and adjust the sweetness or seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Assemble the Salad
On a serving platter or individual plates, spread the dried salad greens as the base. Layer the sliced strawberries on top, followed by the drained red onion and toasted nuts. If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese for an extra creamy touch and flavor. This combination creates a beautiful presentation and textures in your refreshing salad.
Step 7: Dress the Salad
Just before serving, drizzle the homemade vinaigrette over the assembled strawberry salad, ensuring an even coverage. Depending on your preference, start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed to achieve your desired flavor balance. Finish off by sprinkling black pepper to taste, amplifying the deliciousness of your Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing are perfect for busy weeknights when you need to save time! You can wash and dry your salad greens up to 3 days in advance, storing them in a paper towel-lined container to maintain their crispness. Additionally, slice the strawberries and keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; this prevents browning and ensures they stay juicy. Prepare the vinaigrette and refrigerate it for up to 1 week, shaking it well before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad, simply assemble the components together, dress with vinaigrette, and voilà—restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest strawberries and greens available. The quality of your ingredients directly affects the flavor of your Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing.
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Prep Wisely: To prevent sogginess, wash and slice strawberries just before serving. This keeps them juicy and vibrant without losing their texture.
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Balance the Dressing: Start with a small amount of vinaigrette, adding more gradually. This helps avoid overdressing the salad, allowing the natural flavors of the strawberries to shine.
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Emulsification Matters: When making your vinaigrette, whisk continuously while adding olive oil to ensure it emulsifies properly, resulting in a creamy, cohesive dressing.
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Toast Nuts for Flavor: If using nuts, toast them just before adding to the salad. This enhances their flavor and crunch, providing a delightful contrast to the strawberries.
Storage Tips for Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Strawberry Salad at room temperature for the best flavor and freshness, but it should not sit out for more than 2 hours.
Fridge: Store leftover salad components separately; salad greens in a paper towel-lined container for up to 5 days, and sliced strawberries in an airtight container for up to 2 days to avoid sogginess.
Vinaigrette: Keep the homemade vinaigrette in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 1 week; shake well before using to restore its creaminess for your Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing.
Reheating: No reheating needed for this salad; serve fresh to maintain texture and flavor.
What to Serve with Easy Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing?
The perfect meal is just a handful of delightful accompaniments away from your refreshing dish, elevating every bite into a seasonal celebration.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, tender chicken adds a satisfying protein that pairs beautifully with the salad’s bright flavors.
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Crispy Quiche: The rich, savory notes of a quiche offer a delightful contrast, making it ideal for brunch gatherings or light lunches.
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Chilled Gazpacho: This refreshing, cold soup enhances the lightness of the salad, creating a fantastic summer meal that cools you down.
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Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized veggies provide a savory counterpart, harmonizing effortlessly with the freshness of strawberries.
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Toasted Baguette: A side of crusty bread is perfect to soak up the vinaigrette, adding a satisfying crunch to your dining experience.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: A citrusy, bubbly drink refreshes your palate, complementing the fruity acidity of the salad and keeping the meal light and refreshing.
These pairings not only enhance the flavors and textures of your meal but also create an inviting atmosphere around your summer dining table.
Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful salad; the possibilities will inspire your taste buds!
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Greens Swap: Try using spinach or arugula instead of traditional salad greens for a peppery twist. This not only changes the flavor but also adds unique textures.
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Nut Options: Substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer different nuts for crunch. Each nut brings its own depth of flavor, making each bite exciting.
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Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or seared salmon to make this salad a filling meal. The addition of protein turns it into a hearty option, perfect for lunch or dinner.
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Fruit Remix: Experiment with mixed berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, to add a new fruity dimension. They not only enhance the flavor but also add a colorful contrast.
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Vinaigrette Variations: Substitute the balsamic with apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist or citrus juice for brighter flavors. Each option lends a different nuance that freshens up the dish.
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Cheese Adventure: Try goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier texture and tangy taste. The earthiness of goat cheese complements the sweetness of strawberries beautifully.
For more seasonal inspirations, check out our Winter Salad Vibrant or learn how to make a Rotisserie Chicken Salad for a hearty option.
Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best strawberries for my salad?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for bright red berries that are firm to the touch and free from white patches or dark spots. Ripe strawberries should have a sweet aroma and vibrant color, indicating they are at their peak flavor.
What’s the best way to store leftover salad ingredients?
For optimal freshness, store the salad greens in a paper towel-lined container in the fridge; they will stay crisp for up to 5 days. Keep sliced strawberries in an airtight container for up to 2 days to prevent them from becoming mushy. It’s best to store the vinaigrette in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week—shake well before use!
Can I freeze the salad or its ingredients?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing the entire salad since the texture will change and the strawberries will become mushy upon thawing. However, you can freeze the vinaigrette in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and shake well to re-emulsify.
What should I do if my dressing doesn’t emulsify?
Don’t worry! If your vinaigrette isn’t emulsifying properly, try this: whisk the balsamic vinegar, mustard, and sweetener first, then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously. If it still doesn’t come together, blend it in a blender for a few seconds. This should give you that creamy texture we’re aiming for!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! If you’re serving this salad to guests, be mindful of possible allergies. The recipe includes nuts and feta cheese, which may not be suitable for everyone. You can easily omit these ingredients or substitute with seeds or vegan cheese for a dairy-free option. Always check with your guests about any food allergies to ensure everyone enjoys this Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing!
Strawberry Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing for Fresh Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse and pat dry fresh strawberries, remove green tops, slice into quarters, and set aside.
- Wash salad greens, spin or pat dry, and set aside.
- Soak sliced red onion in cold water for 20 minutes, drain and rinse.
- Toast nuts in a medium saucepan for 3-5 minutes until golden brown, then let cool.
- In a bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and kosher salt; whisk in olive oil.
- Assemble salad with greens, strawberries, onion, nuts, and feta. Drizzle with vinaigrette before serving.
- Sprinkle black pepper to taste.
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