Strawberry Balsamic Salad

Name: Strawberry Balsamic Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed baby greens; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional); 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh & Healthy

I love indulging in fresh, vibrant salads, and this Strawberry Balsamic Salad is a personal favorite. The sweet, juicy strawberries paired with tangy balsamic dressing make a delightful combination that dances on the palate. The crunch of mixed greens adds texture, while the feta cheese brings a creamy richness. It's the perfect dish for a light lunch or a side at dinner, and it never fails to impress guests with its colors and flavors. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to make this salad a regular part of your meal rotation.

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2026-02-08T02:17:36.112Z

When I first made this Strawberry Balsamic Salad, I was blown away by how quickly it came together and the explosion of flavors in each bite. The sweet strawberries really shine when drizzled with a balsamic reduction, and the feta adds a lovely creaminess that balances the tangy balsamic. I've experimented with different greens, but I find mixed baby greens give it a wonderful color and delicate texture.

For extra crunch and depth, consider adding walnuts or almonds. The combination of textures keeps the salad interesting, and it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a hearty pasta dish. Don't skip on the balsamic drizzle – it can transform the simplest ingredients into something truly special.

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing mix of sweet strawberries and tangy balsamic vinegar
Crispy greens provide delightful crunch in every bite
Perfectly balanced with creamy feta for added richness

Balancing Flavors

In this Strawberry Balsamic Salad, the harmony between sweet and tangy is a critical element. The strawberries not only add sweetness but also bring a juicy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy mixed greens. To enhance this balance, consider adjusting the sweetness of the balsamic dressing by varying the amount of honey. Start with the recommended teaspoon, but feel free to add more if you prefer a sweeter dressing that complements the strawberries further.

The role of feta cheese in this salad goes beyond adding creaminess; it introduces a salty counterpoint that enhances the overall flavor profile. When selecting feta, opt for a block of cheese instead of pre-crumbled to ensure a fresher taste. You can crumble it yourself using your fingers or a fork for a more rustic feel. If you want to experiment, goat cheese can be a delightful substitute, imparting a tangy note that pairs well with the balsamic.

Serving Suggestions

This salad shines as a light lunch, but it can also serve as an elegant side dish at dinner. To elevate it further, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or shrimp. The rich proteins will contrast nicely with the lightness of the salad, making for a satisfying meal. I often add a handful of cooked quinoa or farro for an extra boost of nutrition, transforming this dish into a hearty entrée.

For a delightful presentation, serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl or on a platter. This allows the vibrant colors of the strawberries and greens to stand out, enticing your guests. If you’re preparing it for a crowd, toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to maintain the greens' crispness. Leftovers can be stored separately, which helps avoid soggy greens.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prep this salad ahead of time, it's best to keep certain components separate until you’re ready to serve. The mixed greens can be washed and spun dry a day in advance, stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Sliced strawberries, however, are best enjoyed fresh and should be prepared no more than a few hours before serving to maintain their texture.

As for the dressing, it can be made up to a week in advance. Store it in a sealed jar in the fridge, and shake it well before using. Dressing may thicken in the cold, so give it a quick whisk or shake to return it to a pourable consistency. If you find it too thick, a splash of water can help loosen it up without compromising flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your salad stand out:

Salad Ingredients

4 cups mixed baby greens
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)

Balsamic Dressing

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, you'll find it's a breeze to put this salad together!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious salad:

Prepare the Dressing

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

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens and sliced strawberries. Drizzle with the balsamic dressing and toss gently to coat.

Finish with Feta

Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese and sliced almonds, if using. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your tasty Strawberry Balsamic Salad!

Pro Tips

For a truly unique twist, try adding some sliced avocado or grilled chicken for a more filling meal. Ensuring your ingredients are fresh will bring out the best flavors in the salad.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to get creative with this salad by adding seasonal fruits or vegetables. Sliced peaches or blueberries could be wonderful additions during warmer months, bringing their own sweetness and color. If you want to introduce some crunch, consider adding shredded carrots or radishes for a peppery bite. Just remember to adjust the balsamic dressing to keep the flavor balance intact with any additional ingredients.

For those with allergies or dietary restrictions, there are several easy substitutions. If you're gluten-free, rest assured that this salad naturally fits that need. For a dairy-free version, you can skip the feta or use a vegan cheese alternative that crumbles similarly, such as cashew cheese. Additionally, to reduce the sugar in the dressing, you might use a dash of maple syrup or agave, which can provide similar sweetness.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your salad’s flavors to be one-dimensional, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the sliced strawberries before adding them to the greens. This small step draws out their natural juices and amplifies their sweetness. Similarly, if the dressing feels too acidic, a bit more olive oil can help mellow the tanginess while preserving the overall flavor balance.

Lastly, if your salad appears wilted after dressing, it might be due to overdressing or letting it sit too long before serving. Avoid this by tossing the salad gently and serving right after combining. If you anticipate leftovers, keep the dressing separate and add it right before serving to maintain the fresh crunch of the greens.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

It's best to assemble the salad right before serving to keep the greens crisp. You can prepare the dressing and slice the strawberries in advance.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You could use goat cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor profile, or leave it out for a dairy-free option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day, but be aware that the greens may wilt.

→ Is this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese and use a plant-based sweetener in the dressing.