Name: Strawberry Balsamic Salad
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 Caramelized Pecans; 1 small head Romaine Lettuce chopped; 1 lb Strawberries hulled and sliced; 5 oz Spinach (bag); 1 pear Pear thinly sliced and halved or chopped; 1 Cucumber chopped; 1 Red Bell Pepper chopped; 1/4 Red Onion thinly sliced (large); 1 package Ramen Noodles crushed, flavor packet discarded; 1/3 cup Roasted Salted Sunflower Seeds; 4 oz Goat Cheese Crumbles; 1 tablespoon Olive Oil; 1 cup Strawberries hulled; 1/2 cup Aged Balsamic Vinegar; 1 tablespoon Sugar; 1/2 tablespoon Dijon; 1/2 tablespoon Dried Minced Onions; 1 clove Garlic peeled; 1/2 tsp Paprika (EACH); 1/4 tsp Dried Thyme (EACH); 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 1 tablespoon Poppy Seeds

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The first time I made this Strawberry Balsamic Salad, I was hosting a small gathering for friends on a warm spring evening. The aroma of fresh strawberries mingling with the tangy balsamic vinegar filled the air, and I knew I had stumbled upon something special. As the sun began to set, casting a golden hue over the garden, I tossed together vibrant greens and juicy pears, creating a salad that was not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Everyone gathered around, plates in hand, eager to dive into this colorful masterpiece. The laughter and joy shared during that meal reminded me of the simple pleasures in life, and it made me realize how a dish like this Strawberry Balsamic Salad can elevate any occasion.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
25 mins

Cook Time:
5 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
220 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Keto, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Food Processor, Oven, Baking Sheet, Blender, Whisk, Peeler, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon

Why This Strawberry Balsamic Salad Hits Different

Freshness at Its Best

One of the reasons I absolutely adore this Strawberry Balsamic Salad is its freshness. Using seasonal produce ensures that every bite bursts with flavor, especially when it comes to the strawberries and romaine lettuce. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a salad that tastes vibrant and alive.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This salad isn’t just for fancy gatherings; it’s versatile enough for a casual lunch or a picnic in the park. The combination of sweet and savory makes it a delightful addition to any meal. I often find myself making this salad when I want to impress guests or simply treat myself.

Easy to Prepare

Another standout feature of this Strawberry Balsamic Salad is how easy it is to prepare. With minimal chopping and no cooking required, you can have a stunning salad ready in no time. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights or when you need a quick side for dinner.

Endless Variations

One of the best things about this salad is its adaptability. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have at home. Want to add some nuts for crunch? Go for it! Craving some protein? Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas. The possibilities are endless, making it a staple recipe in my kitchen.

Health Benefits

Not only is this salad delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. The spinach, strawberries, and sundried tomatoes provide an array of vitamins and antioxidants. Eating such a colorful salad helps me feel good and energized, adding to the joy of every bite.

Beautiful Presentation

A feast for the eyes, the Strawberry Balsamic Salad is colorful and inviting. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to dig in right away. I love how the vibrant red of the strawberries contrasts beautifully with the greens and creamy goat cheese, making it a perfect centerpiece for any table.

Key Ingredients for Strawberry Balsamic Salad

This Strawberry Balsamic Salad features a delightful mix of fresh ingredients that work harmoniously together. The bright flavors of strawberries and balsamic vinegar create a refreshing dressing that complements the crisp romaine lettuce and spinach. Each ingredient contributes to a balanced and nutritious salad.

Caramelized Pecans: These nuts add a sweet crunch, creating a delightful contrast to the other fresh ingredients.
Romaine Lettuce: Provides a crisp and refreshing base that holds up well against the hearty components.
Strawberries: Sweet and juicy, they are the star of the salad, bringing a burst of flavor to each bite.
Spinach: Packed with nutrients, it adds a soft texture and earthy flavor to the mix.
Pear: Thinly sliced, it brings a subtle sweetness and complements the balsamic vinegar.
Cucumber: Adds crunch and hydration, lightening up the dish.
Red Bell Pepper: Sweet and colorful, enhancing both the flavor and the visual appeal.
Red Onion: A little sharpness that balances the sweetness of the strawberries and adds depth.
Ramen Noodles: These provide a unique texture and surprise element in the salad.
Sunflower Seeds: Offer a nutty flavor and additional crunch that elevates the dish.
Goat Cheese Crumbles: Creamy and tangy, they bring richness and flavor that ties everything together.
Olive Oil: A key ingredient in the dressing, it helps emulsify and adds richness.
Balsamic Vinegar: Provides acidity and sweetness, making the dressing bright and flavorful.
Sugar: Helps balance the tanginess of the dressing for a well-rounded flavor.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a bit of spice and helps emulsify the vinaigrette.
Dried Minced Onions: For added flavor in the dressing.
Garlic: A hint of aromatic flavor that elevates the dressing.
Paprika: For a touch of warmth and color in the dressing.
Dried Thyme: Adds an earthy note to the mix.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A high-quality oil adds flavor and richness to the salad.
Poppy Seeds: A lovely finishing touch that adds texture to the dressing.

Recipe Directions for Strawberry Balsamic Salad

Making this Strawberry Balsamic Salad is a simple and enjoyable process. The key is to assemble everything fresh and watch the transformation as you combine all your ingredients. Let’s get started!

Start by preparing the dressing. Add all of the vinaigrette ingredients to a blender except for the olive oil. Process until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
With the blender running on low, gradually add the olive oil in a slow, steady stream. This technique helps to emulsify the dressing, creating a creamy texture. Once it’s fully incorporated, whisk in the poppy seeds.
For a tangier dressing, consider adding more balsamic vinegar. If you prefer a sweeter taste, mix in a bit of sugar. The flavor can vary depending on the type of balsamic you use, so taste as you go.
It’s best to serve the dressing chilled. If you’re preparing the salad ahead of time, place the dressing in the freezer for a few minutes to cool it down or refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.
Next, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. While the oven is heating, prepare the caramelized pecans according to your preferred method, and set them aside.
Take a baking sheet and add the ramen noodles. Toss them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to coat evenly. Spread the noodles in an even layer on the baking sheet and bake until they’re toasted, which should take about 10 minutes. Remember to stir 1 to 2 times for even browning.
While the noodles are toasting, grab a large bowl and add all of the salad ingredients: chopped romaine lettuce, spinach, sliced strawberries, pear, chopped cucumber, diced red bell pepper, and thinly sliced red onion.
If you’re not expecting leftovers, you can toss the salad with the desired amount of dressing right away. The combination of fresh ingredients and dressing will create a lovely integration of flavors.
If you expect leftovers, it’s better to dress individual portions. This way, the salad stays crisp for longer!
Finally, serve immediately and enjoy the beautiful, colorful medley of flavors in your Strawberry Balsamic Salad. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress!

Things Worth Knowing

Fresh Ingredients: Always use the freshest ingredients you can find. This will ensure that your salad is bursting with flavor and nutrients.
Balancing Flavors: Adjust the sweetness and acidity of the dressing to your liking. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good shake before using it!
Storage: If you have leftovers, store the salad without dressing to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.

Recipe Notes about Strawberry Balsamic Salad

When making this Strawberry Balsamic Salad, here are some tips to keep in mind that will elevate your dish and enhance your experience.

Storage: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the texture of the greens.
Freezing: It’s best not to freeze this salad since fresh ingredients don’t freeze well, especially strawberries and greens.
Pairing: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. It’s also a great side dish for a picnic or barbecue.
Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding avocado or nuts for extra richness and crunch. They can take the salad to the next level!
Seasonal Variations: Feel free to switch out the fruit based on the season. Try peaches in summer or apples in fall for different taste experiences.
Dressing Consistency: If the dressing is too thick, add a small amount of water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Best Served With

Grilled Chicken: This salad makes a fantastic side to juicy grilled chicken. The flavors complement each other beautifully.
Sandwiches: Pair it with sandwiches or wraps for a light lunch that’s both filling and refreshing.
Picnics: The Strawberry Balsamic Salad is perfect for picnics. It travels well and can be served cold or at room temperature.
Holiday Gatherings: Serve it during spring holidays or family gatherings, where it acts as a colorful centerpiece.
Seasonal Meals: Incorporate it into your meals during warm months when strawberries are in season for a fresh touch.

FAQ

The Strawberry Balsamic Salad stands out because of its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The fresh strawberries combined with the tangy balsamic vinegar create a dressing that’s both refreshing and delightful. This salad not only pleases the palate but also provides a colorful presentation that makes it perfect for any occasion, from casual lunches to festive gatherings.

Absolutely! You can prepare the Strawberry Balsamic Salad ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep or gatherings. Just assemble the salad ingredients except for the pears and add them to a bowl. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the pears and dress individual portions to keep the greens fresh and crisp.

This Strawberry Balsamic Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a side for sandwiches. Its bright flavors can enhance any meal and make it lighter and more nutritious. It’s also great on its own for a light lunch, or you can serve it at picnics and barbecues where it can shine as a refreshing side dish.

Customization is key with the Strawberry Balsamic Salad. You can add a variety of ingredients based on your preferences. For example, try adding nuts for extra crunch, or swap out strawberries for other seasonal fruits like peaches or apples. You can also include proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a more filling meal. The dressing is flexible too—feel free to tweak the sweetness or acidity to match your taste.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Balsamic Salad is a beautiful and delicious dish that brings together fresh flavors and bright colors. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether casual or festive, and offers so many possibilities for customization. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy it brings at your table. With its delightful balance of tastes, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!