Take advantage of fresh berry season with this delicious Summer Strawberry Salad! This vibrant dish combines the sweetness of strawberries and blueberries with the tangy flavor of mandarin oranges, making it perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light summer dinner. The creamy goat cheese and crunchy pecans add delightful textures, while the sparkling orange vinaigrette ties everything together. It’s a refreshing option that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Summer Strawberry Salad can be prepared in just 10 minutes. Perfect for busy days!
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet fruits and creamy goat cheese creates a harmonious blend that delights the palate.
- Versatile Dish: Ideal as a side salad or a light main course, this salad suits any occasion, from family gatherings to romantic dinners.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and minerals, this salad is not only tasty but also good for you.
- Stunning Presentation: The bright colors of the fruit make this salad visually appealing, adding a pop of color to your table.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing your Summer Strawberry Salad is straightforward, but having the right tools makes it even easier. Let’s gather what you’ll need!
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large serving bowl
- Small jar with lid
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large serving bowl: Allows ample space for mixing ingredients without spilling.
- Small jar with lid: Perfect for shaking up your dressing to ensure an even coat over the salad.
Ingredients
Take advantage of fresh berry season with this delicious Summer Strawberry Salad! Loaded with fresh strawberries, blueberries, mandarin oranges, pecans, goat cheese, and sparkling orange vinaigrette, it really is the perfect taste of summer!
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: Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large serving bowl, combine all salad ingredients:
1. Add the spring mix as your base.
2. Layer in sliced strawberries, blueberries, mandarin oranges, pecans, goat cheese, and green onions.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small jar:
1. Combine orange sparkling juice, olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
2. Secure the lid tightly and shake well until fully combined.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Right before serving:
1. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture.
2. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Enjoy your vibrant Summer Strawberry Salad as a refreshing addition to any meal!
How to Serve Summer Strawberry Salad
Serving your Summer Strawberry Salad can elevate any meal or gathering. This vibrant dish is not only refreshing but also versatile, making it perfect for a variety of occasions.
As a Main Course
- Pair with grilled chicken for a satisfying meal that balances flavors and textures.
- Add quinoa to make the salad heartier and boost its nutritional value.
With Fresh Bread
- Serve alongside crusty baguette slices or garlic bread for a delightful contrast to the salad’s freshness.
- Pair with pita chips for a crunchy side that complements the soft fruits and cheese.
At Gatherings
- Offer it as a light appetizer during summer parties; it’s sure to impress guests with its colorful presentation.
- Use small cups to serve individual portions, making it easy for guests to enjoy while mingling.
With Wine
- Complement this salad with a chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, which enhances the fruity flavors.
- For a non-alcoholic option, pair it with sparkling water infused with citrus for a refreshing twist.
How to Perfect Summer Strawberry Salad
Creating the ideal Summer Strawberry Salad requires attention to detail. Consider these tips to enhance your dish:
- Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe strawberries and blueberries for the best flavor. Fresh produce makes all the difference.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps meld the flavors together nicely.
- Customize Your Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or blue cheese if you prefer stronger flavors.
- Add Protein: Incorporate grilled shrimp or chicken for an added protein boost that turns the salad into a complete meal.
- Dress Just Before Serving: To keep greens crisp, add the dressing right before serving. This maintains texture and freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Summer Strawberry Salad
Pairing side dishes with your Summer Strawberry Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options:
- Grilled Vegetables: A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds smoky flavors that complement the salad’s sweetness.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter brings summer vibes; grill it for extra charred flavor!
- Fruit Skewers: Assemble skewers of seasonal fruits like watermelon and pineapple for a fun, easy-to-eat side.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses paired with crackers offers variety and appeals to those looking for something savory.
- Stuffed Avocados: Fill ripe avocados with tuna or chicken salad as a creamy side that pairs well with fresh ingredients.
- Caprese Salad: The classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provides another fresh option that harmonizes beautifully with strawberries.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Summer Strawberry Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh strawberries and greens. Wilting can ruin the salad’s texture and flavor. Choose ripe, vibrant produce for the best results.
- Overdressing the Salad: Too much dressing can drown out the fresh flavors. Start with a small amount, then add more if needed. It’s easier to add than to take away!
- Ignoring Texture Balance: A good salad should have a mix of textures. Combine crunchy pecans with soft goat cheese for a delightful contrast. Don’t forget to include ingredients with varying crunch levels.
- Not Chilling Before Serving: Serving your salad cold enhances its refreshing quality. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving for optimal taste.
- Cutting Ingredients Too Small: Cutting fruits and vegetables into small pieces can lead to mushiness. Aim for bite-sized pieces so that each bite offers a satisfying crunch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best consumed within 2 days for freshness.
- Keep dressing separate until ready to serve.
Freezing Summer Strawberry Salad
- Freezing is not recommended due to the ingredients’ texture changes.
- If necessary, freeze only the components like pecans separately.
Reheating Summer Strawberry Salad
- Oven: Not suitable for reheating; salads are best served cold.
- Microwave: Avoid using as it will wilt the greens and soften the fruits.
- Stovetop: Not recommended; salads do not reheat well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Summer Strawberry Salad special?
The combination of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and mandarin oranges creates a vibrant flavor profile that truly embodies summer.
Can I customize my Summer Strawberry Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits like raspberries or nuts such as walnuts for added flavor and texture.
How long can I store my Summer Strawberry Salad?
You can store this salad in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
What should I serve with Summer Strawberry Salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, making it a perfect side dish for summer barbecues.
Final Thoughts
This Summer Strawberry Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or seasonal ingredients. With its bright flavors and refreshing textures, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of summer!
Summer Strawberry Salad
Indulge in the refreshing taste of summer with this vibrant Summer Strawberry Salad. Perfectly balanced, this dish combines juicy strawberries and blueberries with sweet mandarin oranges, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy pecans. Tossed in a sparkling orange vinaigrette, it’s an ideal companion for picnics, barbecues, or any light summer meal. This salad is not only quick to prepare—taking just 10 minutes—but also nutritious and visually stunning, making it a delightful addition to any table. Whether served as a side or a main dish, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 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
- 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
Instructions
- In a large serving bowl, combine spring mix, sliced strawberries, blueberries, mandarin oranges, pecans, goat cheese, and green onions.
- In a small jar, mix orange sparkling juice, olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper; shake well.
- Just before serving, pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 generous bowl (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: For added texture and flavor, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for protein. Chill the salad for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
