Strawberry Balsamic Salad

Name: Strawberry Balsamic Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed greens; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional); 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love this Strawberry Balsamic Salad for its fresh and vibrant flavors! The combination of juicy strawberries and tangy balsamic vinegar creates an incredible harmony that's hard to resist. With a delightful mix of textures from the crunchy greens and creamy feta, this salad has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the warm months. It’s perfect as a side dish for barbecues or as a light lunch on its own, and it pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish.

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:40:35.139Z

When I first tried this Strawberry Balsamic Salad, I was blown away by how such simple ingredients could create such a delicious dish. I thought it would be just another salad, but the blend of the sweet strawberries and the rich balsamic glaze elevated it to something truly special. I recommend using fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor; they really make a difference!

The best part about this salad is how quickly it comes together. I often whip it up in just 15 minutes when I need a refreshing side. Adding walnuts gives it an extra crunch, but feel free to customize it with your favorite nuts or seeds.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Vibrant flavors of sweet strawberries and tangy balsamic glaze
Refreshing and light – perfect for warm weather
Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients

Key Flavor Components

The combination of strawberries and balsamic vinegar in this salad is a match made in heaven. The sweetness of the strawberries naturally balances the acidity of the vinegar, creating a dynamic flavor profile that excites the palate. When selecting strawberries, look for bright red berries with a sweet aroma, as their flavor intensity significantly impacts the overall taste of the salad. Using high-quality balsamic vinegar will also enhance the dressing; opt for one that is thick and syrupy for the best results.

Feta cheese adds a salty creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the tart strawberries. If you're not a fan of feta, consider substituting goat cheese for a tangy twist, or even a dairy-free option like almond-based feta for a lighter alternative. Each cheese offers a unique texture and flavor, allowing you to personalize your salad to suit your preferences.

Preparation and Assembly Tips

When preparing the salad, it's essential to wash and dry the greens thoroughly. This not only removes any residual dirt but also helps the dressing cling better to the leaves. Using a salad spinner is a quick way to ensure your greens are crisp and not soggy. If you're short on time, I recommend purchasing pre-washed mixed greens to speed up the preparation process without sacrificing freshness.

Assembling the salad can be as simple as tossing all the ingredients together, but for a beautifully presented dish, consider layering. Start with the mixed greens, followed by a generous mound of strawberries and scattered feta before finally drizzling the dressing. This method not only looks appealing but allows each guest to enjoy the vibrant colors and textures with every bite.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start.

Salad Ingredients

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

Make sure to wash the greens and strawberries thoroughly before use.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad.

Prepare the Dressing

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

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, feta cheese, and walnuts if using.

Dress the Salad

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

Serve Immediately

Plate the salad and enjoy it right away for the freshest taste!

This salad is best served immediately but can be stored in the fridge for a short time.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try marinating the strawberries in a bit of sugar and balsamic vinegar for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare some components in advance. For example, wash and slice the strawberries a few hours ahead of time, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just be mindful to wait until serving to add the dressing, as this prevents the greens from wilting and keeps everything crisp.

If you do end up with leftovers, store the components separately. Keep the mixed greens and strawberries in separate containers to maintain their freshness, and drizzle any remaining dressing over just before eating. This way, you'll be able to enjoy the salad the next day without compromising on its delightful textures.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this Strawberry Balsamic Salad! Add fresh herbs like basil for an aromatic touch that complements the strawberries. Chopped mint can also bring a refreshing kick. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a sprinkle of chili flakes or sliced jalapeños for a surprising element of heat.

Nuts are excellent for adding crunch, but you can also swap in roasted pecans or toasted almonds instead of walnuts, depending on your taste. Additionally, consider including other fruits such as blueberries or apples, which can introduce new dimensions of flavor and color to the salad.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

It's best to serve this salad fresh, but you can prepare the dressing and chop the ingredients ahead of time. Just combine them before serving.

→ What other toppings can I add?

You can add avocado, grilled chicken, or other fruits like blueberries for a twist.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are gluten-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day, but the greens may wilt.