Summer Strawberry Salad

Take advantage of fresh berry season with this delicious Summer Strawberry Salad! Packed with vibrant strawberries, blueberries, and mandarin oranges, this salad is a refreshing addition to any meal. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch on a warm day. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful experience that highlights the best of summer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad can be made in just 10 minutes, making it an easy choice for busy days.
• Bursting with Flavor: Fresh strawberries and a sparkling orange vinaigrette provide a delightful sweetness that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile: Great as a side dish or a main course, this salad can complement various meals.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with vitamins and healthy fats from pecans, this salad offers nutritional benefits while tasting fantastic.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful ingredients make this salad not only tasty but also visually appealing for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Summer Strawberry Salad efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Below are the must-have items for preparing this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large serving bowl
• Small jar with a lid
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large serving bowl: Ideal for mixing all your fresh ingredients without spilling.
• Small jar with a lid: Perfect for shaking up your dressing quickly and easily.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 8 ounces spring mix
• 1 cup sliced strawberries
• 1/2 cup blueberries
• 1/2 cup mandarin oranges
• 1/2 cup pecans (unsalted)
• 3.5 ounces crumbled goat cheese
• 2 Tablespoons sliced green onions

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup orange sparkling juice (I used Sanpellegrino)
• 3 Tablespoons olive oil
• 2 Tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 Tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Summer Strawberry Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

Combine all the salad ingredients in a large serving bowl. Gently toss them together until evenly mixed.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small jar with a lid, combine the dressing ingredients:
1. Add the orange sparkling juice.
2. Pour in olive oil and white balsamic vinegar.
3. Add honey, salt, and pepper.
4. Secure the lid tightly and shake well until emulsified.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss everything together gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Enjoy your vibrant Summer Strawberry Salad as a refreshing complement to any meal or on its own!

How to Serve Summer Strawberry Salad

Serving the Summer Strawberry Salad can elevate your dining experience, making it not only delicious but visually appealing. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this vibrant salad.

For a Light Lunch

• Pair with grilled chicken for extra protein.
• Serve in individual bowls for a more personal touch.

As a Party Appetizer

• Use small cups or jars for single servings at gatherings.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an elegant look.

On a Picnic

• Pack in mason jars for easy transport and minimal mess.
• Include whole-grain crackers on the side for crunch.

With Breakfast

• Top yogurt or oatmeal with this salad for a refreshing twist.
• Add to breakfast wraps for a colorful start to your day.

How to Perfect Summer Strawberry Salad

Perfecting your Summer Strawberry Salad is all about enhancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to ensure your salad shines.

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for ripe strawberries and seasonal fruits to maximize flavor.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
• Mix dressings last: Combine dressing just before serving to keep greens crisp.
• Add variety: Experiment with nuts or seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch.
• Adjust sweetness: Modify honey in the dressing based on the sweetness of your strawberries.

Best Side Dishes for Summer Strawberry Salad

Pairing your Summer Strawberry Salad with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky corn adds a delightful contrast.
2. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes bring Italian flair.
3. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed side that enhances overall nutrition.
4. Baked Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and sweet, these fries balance the salad’s freshness.
5. Garlic Bread: Crunchy bread with garlic complements the soft textures of the salad.
6. Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits can enhance the salad’s berry theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Summer Strawberry Salad even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Use just enough to lightly coat the ingredients for the best flavor.
• Using Unsuitable Greens: Not all greens work well in a strawberry salad. Stick with spring mix or spinach for optimal taste and texture.
• Neglecting to Toast the Nuts: Unroasted pecans can taste bland. Toast them lightly in a pan to enhance their flavor before adding them to your salad.
• Ignoring Freshness: Using old fruits or wilting greens will compromise your dish. Always select fresh produce for a vibrant and delicious salad.
• Skipping Seasoning: A pinch of salt and pepper can elevate your flavors. Don’t skip this step; it balances the sweetness of strawberries and oranges.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness.

Freezing Summer Strawberry Salad

• Not Recommended: Freezing is not ideal as it affects the texture of berries and greens.
• If needed, freeze only the pecans separately for later use.

Reheating Summer Strawberry Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread ingredients in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warm, about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat on low with a splash of water or juice, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are essential for Summer Strawberry Salad?

The key ingredients include fresh strawberries, blueberries, mandarin oranges, pecans, goat cheese, and a sparkling orange vinaigrette.

How can I customize my Summer Strawberry Salad?

You can add other fruits like raspberries or sliced peaches, swap goat cheese for feta, or include grilled chicken for extra protein.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most components ahead but keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain freshness.

Is Summer Strawberry Salad healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with vitamins from fruits and offers healthy fats from pecans while being low in calories.

What should I serve with Summer Strawberry Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light side dish at summer gatherings.

Final Thoughts

The Summer Strawberry Salad is not only refreshing but also versatile. Its combination of sweet fruits and crunchy nuts makes it perfect for any summer meal. Feel free to customize it further by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the dressing to suit your taste. Enjoy this delightful dish that celebrates the season’s best flavors!

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Summer Strawberry Salad

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves about 4

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Description

Summer Strawberry Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that embodies the essence of summer with its delightful combination of sweet strawberries, blueberries, and juicy mandarin oranges. This salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch on warm days. With just 10 minutes of prep time, it’s an easy yet impressive addition to any meal. The bright colors and flavors not only make it a feast for the eyes but also provide essential nutrients from fresh fruits and nuts. Enjoy this salad on its own or pair it with grilled chicken for added protein – either way, it’s a delicious way to celebrate berry season!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 ounces spring mix
• 1 cup sliced strawberries
• 1/2 cup blueberries
• 1/2 cup mandarin oranges
• 1/2 cup unsalted pecans
• 3.5 ounces crumbled goat cheese
• 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
• 1/2 cup orange sparkling juice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper

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Instructions

1. In a large serving bowl, combine spring mix, strawberries, blueberries, mandarin oranges, pecans, goat cheese, and green onions. Gently toss to mix.
2. In a small jar with a lid, add orange sparkling juice, olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid and shake well until emulsified.
3. Just before serving, pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1/4 salad (150g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 10mg