Refreshing Strawberry Balsamic Salad

Name: Refreshing Strawberry Balsamic Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 cups mixed greens; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love this Refreshing Strawberry Balsamic Salad! The combination of sweet strawberries and tangy balsamic vinegar creates a delightful harmony that's perfect for warm weather. When we first tried this recipe, the burst of freshness caught us by surprise. The secret lies in allowing the strawberries to marinate briefly, enhancing their flavor. I also enjoy customizing it with nuts or cheese for added texture and taste. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that brings such joy to any meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-09T16:09:27.347Z

When I first prepared this salad for a summer barbecue, I couldn't believe how quickly it disappeared. The strawberries were perfectly ripe, and the homemade balsamic dressing added an exceptional flavor. I highly recommend letting the salad sit for a few minutes before serving; this allows the strawberries to absorb the dressing and intensifies their sweetness.

This salad is not just refreshing but also versatile. You can easily add ingredients like feta cheese or toasted nuts to elevate it further. Every time I serve it, people ask for the recipe!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and vibrant flavors that are perfect for summer
Simple to prepare, yet elegant for any occasion
Healthy and refreshing—ideal for light lunches or as a side dish

      

Marinating Strawberries

Marinating the strawberries is a crucial step in this recipe. By allowing them to sit with a pinch of salt for about 5 minutes, you enhance their natural sweetness and create a savory depth that complements the tanginess of the balsamic vinegar. The salt draws out the juices, leading to a delicious syrup-like consistency that elevates the overall flavor profile of the salad. Don't skip this step—it truly makes a difference!

If you have extra time, consider letting the strawberries marinate for up to 15 minutes. This extended soaking allows more juice to be released and results in an even richer flavor. Just be cautious, as too much time can soften them excessively.

Customizing Your Salad

One of the best things about the Refreshing Strawberry Balsamic Salad is its versatility. While feta adds a creamy, salty balance, feel free to substitute it with goat cheese or mozzarella for a different texture. If you're avoiding dairy, try using a vegan cheese alternative or simply omit it altogether without sacrificing flavor.

For those who love crunch, you might want to experiment with different nuts. Pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds can add a delightful crunch. To intensify the herbaceous notes in the salad, consider adding fresh mint or basil. Just a few leaves, finely chopped, can radically change the flavor profile and give your dish a unique twist.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you're preparing this salad ahead of time, consider storing the greens and dressing separately from the strawberries, feta, and nuts. This way, you maintain the salad's crispness and prevent sogginess. You can keep the mixed greens refrigerated for up to two days and the dressing can be stored in an airtight container for about a week. Just give it a good shake before using it again.

For serving, this salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great light lunch or dinner option. If you're entertaining guests, serve it in a large, clear bowl to highlight the vibrant colors of the ingredients. You can also garnish with additional whole strawberries or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch of elegance.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your salad.

Ingredients for Strawberry Balsamic Salad

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

Ensure the strawberries are ripe for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with a pinch of salt and let them sit for about 5 minutes to draw out their juices.

Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well blended.

Combine the Ingredients

In a large salad bowl, toss the mixed greens with the strawberries, feta cheese, and walnuts.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all the ingredients evenly.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately for a fresh and vibrant dish, or let it sit for a few minutes for the flavors to meld together.

Enjoy your delicious salad!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add sliced avocado or thinly sliced mint for an extra layer of flavor.

Key Techniques

When whisking your dressing, aim for a creamy emulsion. This is achieved by slowly drizzling in the olive oil while continuously whisking the balsamic vinegar. The goal is to combine the two until the dressing appears glossy and unified. If your dressing separates, just give it another quick whisk before drizzling over your salad.

Another key technique is to thoroughly mix the greens with the dressing but do so gently. This prevents tearing the delicate leaves, allowing them to maintain their structure and crunch. I recommend using your hands to toss the salad lightly, which gives you more control over the mixing process.

Dietary Variations

This salad can easily be adapted for various dietary preferences. For a low-carb alternative, swap out the mixed greens for arugula or spinach to reduce the carb count while maintaining the freshness. To make it gluten-free, ensure that any additional toppings, like nuts or cheese, are certified gluten-free.

For a heartier dish, you can add protein, such as grilled shrimp or chickpeas, which not only enhances the nutritional value but also makes it more filling. By adding these, you can transform the salad from a side dish into a main course effortlessly.

Flavor Enhancements

To deepen the flavor of your balsamic dressing, consider infusing it with garlic or herbs such as rosemary or thyme. Adding a clove of minced garlic to the dressing will impart a subtle, aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully. Just remember to taste as you go, adjusting to your preferences.

If you're looking for more sweetness, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup in the dressing can balance the acidity of the vinegar and enhance the natural sweetness of the strawberries. Start with a small quantity and adjust to taste, as the sweetness should accentuate—not overpower—the fresh elements of the salad.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but if you only have frozen, thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative, and you'll have a tasty vegan salad.

→ What other fruits can I add?

You can add other seasonal fruits like blueberries or peaches for a varied flavor profile.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

It's best to enjoy the salad fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The greens may wilt after that.