Lemon Strawberry Fruit Salad

Name: Lemon Strawberry Fruit Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup blueberries; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped; Juice of 2 lemons; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this Lemon Strawberry Fruit Salad during the warm months when fresh strawberries are at their peak. The combination of succulent strawberries with the zesty lemon dressing creates a flavor explosion that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Each bite brings a burst of sweetness balanced by a tangy twist. This vibrant dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply as a light dessert. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings with family and friends.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-12T09:10:18.205Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of a Lemon Strawberry Fruit Salad, I was looking for a refreshing dish to enjoy on a hot day. I experimented with different dressings and found that a mix of freshly squeezed lemon juice and a touch of honey worked perfectly to enhance the natural sweetness of the strawberries. It not only makes the salad more flavorful but also helps bring all the fruits together in harmony.

This salad has become a staple at my summer gatherings. I always make sure to serve it right after preparing it, as the lemon keeps the strawberries looking bright and delicious. Adding a sprinkle of mint just before serving takes it to the next level!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Refreshing combination of sweet strawberries and tangy lemon
Perfectly balanced dressing enhances all the flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, great for spontaneous gatherings

      

Choosing the Best Ingredients

The star of this salad is undoubtedly the strawberries. To ensure optimal flavor, select strawberries that are deep red, firm, and fragrant. Avoid any that appear dull or are overly soft. Freshness is key, as peak-season strawberries can significantly enhance the taste of your salad. If strawberries are not in season, consider using frozen strawberries; just thaw and drain them before use to prevent excess water from diluting the salad.

The mint leaves provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the strawberries. When choosing mint, look for vibrant green leaves with a fresh scent. If you don’t have fresh mint on hand, you can substitute with a few drops of mint extract or use other fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an interesting twist. Each herb will impart a unique flavor profile to the dish.

Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing is a crucial component of this salad, enhancing and tying all the flavors together. When juicing your lemons, roll them on the countertop before cutting to maximize juice extraction. Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad; if you prefer a sweeter profile, adjust the honey accordingly. If you like it more tangy, add a little extra lemon juice, but be cautious not to overpower the sweetness of the strawberries.

If you are avoiding honey, agave syrup or maple syrup can serve as great substitutes, keeping the dressing vegan-friendly. The olive oil adds a smooth richness that balances the acidity of the lemon. For a slightly creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt or a plant-based yogurt mixed with lemon juice, though this change may alter the final flavor profile of the salad.

Ingredients

Fresh and vibrant ingredients are the key to a delicious salad.

Salad Ingredients

4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup blueberries
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

Juice of 2 lemons
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
Pinch of salt

Mix all the ingredients just before serving for the freshest taste.

Instructions

Let's put together this delightful fruit salad.

Prepare the Fruits

In a large bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, blueberries, diced cucumber, and chopped mint leaves.

Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, honey, olive oil, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Combine and Toss

Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.

Enjoy your refreshing Lemon Strawberry Fruit Salad!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other fruits like raspberries or blackberries for variety. Consider chilling the salad in the refrigerator for a few minutes before serving for an extra refreshing experience.

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Strawberry Fruit Salad shines as a side dish at barbecues or a light dessert on a hot day. For an elegant presentation, serve in individual cups or bowls topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla yogurt. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts for added crunch and additional nutrition, making it even more satisfying.

To elevate the salad further, consider adding a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese for a savory component that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the fruit. A touch of balsamic reduction drizzled on top can also offer an interesting flavor dimension, creating a sophisticated twist that guests will appreciate.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning a gathering, you can prepare the fruit mixture a day in advance for convenience. Simply combine the strawberries, blueberries, cucumber, and mint, but hold off on adding the dressing until just before serving. This keeps the fruit fresh and prevents it from becoming soggy. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant color and texture.

When preparing in bulk, be mindful of the dressing quantity. Scaling it up is easy; for every additional serving, increase the lemon juice, honey, and olive oil accordingly. Just make sure to mix well, and taste as you go to ensure the perfect balance remains intact. It’s all about creating a harmonious flavor in each bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare the salad shortly before serving to keep the fruits fresh and vibrant. However, you can prepare the dressing a few hours in advance.

→ What other fruits can I add?

You can add any berries, peaches, or even melons to this salad for extra flavor and color.

→ Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, this salad is vegan-friendly! Just ensure the honey is substituted with maple syrup or agave syrup if you want it to be fully vegan.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day, but enjoy it fresh for the best flavor.