Strawberry Balsamic Salad

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

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Inspiration

I’ve always been a fan of fresh salads, but once I discovered the vibrant combination of strawberries and balsamic dressing, I fell in love. This Strawberry Balsamic Salad is one of my go-to dishes, especially in the summertime when strawberries are at their peak. Each bite bursts with sweet and tangy flavors that perfectly complement one another. With a touch of creaminess from feta cheese and crunch from nuts, it’s a delightful plate that brings freshness to any meal. I promise this salad will become a favorite on your table too!

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:36:36.539Z

When I first tried making this Strawberry Balsamic Salad, I was amazed by how easy it was to throw together while still being so elegant. Ingredients like fresh strawberries, crispy greens, and a homemade balsamic vinaigrette come together in a matter of minutes. I was surprised at how balancing sweet and savory could elevate a basic salad into something exciting!

As I perfected my recipe, I learned that the key is really in the dressing. A good balsamic vinegar enhances the strawberries’ sweetness without overshadowing it, allowing the salad to shine. Adding a sprinkle of nuts provides an unexpected texture that makes every bite enjoyable!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The sweetness of fresh strawberries combined with the tangy balsamic dressing.
Nutty and creamy flavors from the addition of walnuts and feta.
Light and refreshing, making it a perfect dish for warm days.

Ingredient Insights

Strawberries are the star of this salad, bringing both sweetness and color. When selecting strawberries, opt for ones that are bright red, firm, and fragrant. Avoid any that appear dull or shriveled. If strawberries aren’t in season, consider substituting with ripe peaches or even a mix of other berries for a delightful twist on the classic flavor profile, though keep in mind that this will change the overall taste.

The choice of feta cheese enhances the salad's creaminess. Opt for a quality block of feta rather than pre-crumbled ones, as the latter can sometimes lack flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu or a vegan feta which mimics the tangy and salty notes that feta provides. This substitution can still help deliver satisfying flavors while accommodating dietary preferences.

Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing is where the magic happens, binding all flavors together. When whisking your balsamic vinaigrette, it's important to add the olive oil slowly while continuing to whisk. This emulsifies the dressing, giving it a smoother consistency rather than a separated one. You want to achieve a glossy texture that clings nicely to the greens without being overly watery. If the dressing is too tangy for your taste, add a little extra honey to balance the acidity.

Balsamic vinegar can vary greatly in flavor and quality. For a depth of flavor, look for aged balsamic that is thicker and sweeter than standard varieties. If you find that your dressing turns out too tart, incorporate a pinch of sugar to mellow it. I also recommend scaling the recipe if you wish to keep some dressing on hand—this vinaigrette can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a great make-ahead option for other salads or grilled vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of your Strawberry Balsamic Salad, consider layering the ingredients in a clear glass bowl, showcasing the vibrant colors of the strawberries, feta, and greens. This not only enhances visual appeal but also invites diners to mix the layers, ensuring every bite is a flavorful combination. For an added crunch, you can also include seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds, which can provide additional nutrition and texture.

If you're preparing this salad for a larger group or meal prep, you can keep the components separate until serving time. Keep the dressing in a small container and toss it with the salad just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting. This technique will allow you to store leftovers more efficiently—you can refrigerate the salad components for up to two days, but consumed fresh, the flavors and textures are at their best!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful salad:

For the Salad

4 cups mixed salad greens
2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

For the Dressing

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

Once you have everything prepped, you’ll be ready to assemble the salad!

Instructions

Here’s how to put everything together:

Prepare the Dressing

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

Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta, and chopped walnuts.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine without mushy strawberries.

Serve

Transferring the salad to a serving dish or individual plates, enjoy it immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Enjoy your fresh Strawberry Balsamic Salad!

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, try toasting the walnuts slightly before adding them to the salad.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those moderating their nut intake, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with roasted chickpeas for a protein boost without sacrificing crunch. This makes the salad not only lighter but also accommodating to a broader range of dietary restrictions. Additionally, you could use toasted pecans or almonds in place of walnuts if you still want that nutty flavor.

If you’d like to enhance the flavor further, consider adding herbs like fresh basil or mint to the salad. These herbs pair wonderfully with strawberries and bring a refreshing burst to the dish. It’s also a fun way to experiment with unique seasonal ingredients that align with your personal palate.

Storage Tips

The freshness of this salad is crucial for its enjoyment. If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately. Place the greens in a dry, airtight container in the refrigerator, while the strawberries should be kept unwashed and in a breathable container to minimize moisture. When stored properly, both items can last up to two days without wilting.

For the dressing, keep it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. Give it a good shake or whisk before using again, as the ingredients may separate after sitting. This proactive approach to storage lets you enjoy fresh salad days after it's initially prepared without compromising taste or texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits?

Absolutely! You can substitute strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

It's best to consume the salad fresh, but if needed, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to avoid soggy greens.

→ Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Certainly! You can prepare the dressing a few days in advance and store it in the fridge.