Ingredients

For the Strawberry Salad:

• 5 oz (142 grams) spring mix salad greens
• 1/2 lb strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (or goat cheese)
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted

For the Honey Vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Making It Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Wash the greens: Rinse the spring mix salad greens under cold water and spin dry in a salad spinner or pat them dry with paper towels. Set aside in a large bowl.
2. Prepare the strawberries: Hull the strawberries (removing the green tops) and slice them into thin rounds. Set aside.
3. Slice the onion: Thinly slice the red onion and set it aside. If you find red onion too pungent, you can soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes to mellow their flavor.
4. Toast the almonds: In a small skillet over medium heat, add the sliced almonds. Toast them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Honey Vinaigrette

1. Combine the ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, combine 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup red wine vinegar, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
2. Whisk or shake: Whisk the mixture until well combined, or if using a jar, seal the lid tightly and shake until emulsified. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more vinegar or honey according to your preference.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Combine the salad ingredients: In the bowl with the spring mix, add the sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese), and thinly sliced red onion.
2. Dress the salad: Drizzle the honey vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Start with half of the dressing, and gently toss the salad with your hands or a large spoon until everything is evenly coated. You can always add more dressing if needed.
3. Top with almonds: Finally, sprinkle the toasted sliced almonds on top of the salad for added crunch.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate the salad: Divide the salad into individual serving bowls or plates. You can garnish with a few extra slices of strawberries or almonds for presentation.
2. Enjoy immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crispness of the greens and the brightness of the strawberries. Serve it as a light meal or a refreshing side dish.

Cooking Tips

• Use ripe strawberries: The sweetness of ripe strawberries enhances the salad’s overall flavor, so choose strawberries that are bright red and fragrant.
• Cheese alternatives: If you prefer a different flavor, feel free to substitute feta with crumbled goat cheese, blue cheese, or even mozzarella.
• Add protein: For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the salad.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the vinaigrette a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake before using.
• Experiment with nuts: If you don’t have sliced almonds, walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds can be excellent alternatives.

Storage

• Refrigeration: The assembled salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep the dressing separate to avoid wilting the greens.
• Dressing storage: The honey vinaigrette can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just shake well before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 380mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

FAQs

1. Can I use other greens besides spring mix?

Absolutely! You can use spinach, arugula, or any mixed greens of your choice. Just ensure they are fresh and crisp for the best flavor and texture.

2. Is there a substitute for honey in the vinaigrette?

Yes, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a vegan alternative to honey. Adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.

3. Can I add other fruits to the salad?

Definitely! Other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or mandarin oranges can add a delightful twist to the salad.

4. What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light lunch on its own. It’s also a fantastic side dish for BBQs and picnics.

5. How can I make this salad gluten-free?

This recipe is already gluten-free! Just ensure that any added ingredients (like croutons or additional dressings) are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Salad with Honey Vinaigrette is a delightful way to enjoy fresh produce while treating your palate to a burst of flavor. It’s quick to prepare and can be easily customized to suit your preferences, making it a versatile addition to your meal repertoire. Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny day, serving it at a gathering, or simply looking for a nutritious dish, this salad will surely impress. So grab your ingredients, whip up this refreshing salad, and savor the delightful combination of flavors and textures. Happy cooking!