Summer Strawberry Salad

Take advantage of fresh berry season with this delicious Summer Strawberry Salad! This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of strawberries and blueberries with the zest of mandarin oranges, creating a refreshing dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings. The addition of pecans and goat cheese adds a delightful crunch and creaminess, while the sparkling orange vinaigrette ties it all together. It’s a perfect taste of summer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright flavors – The combination of fruits provides a sweet and tangy burst in every bite.
• Quick preparation – Ready in just 10 minutes, this salad is perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Healthy ingredients – Packed with vitamins and minerals, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Versatile dish – Great as a side or main dish, it’s suitable for any occasion, from casual lunches to elegant dinners.
• Eye-catching presentation – The colorful ingredients make this salad visually appealing on any table.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Summer Strawberry Salad, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help make your preparation smoother and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large serving bowl
• Small jar with lid
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large serving bowl – A spacious bowl allows you to mix all your ingredients without spilling.
• Small jar with lid – Perfect for shaking up your dressing to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

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 salad ingredients in a large serving bowl:
1. Add the spring mix first.
2. Layer on the sliced strawberries, blueberries, mandarin oranges, pecans, goat cheese, and green onions.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small jar with a lid:
1. Add orange sparkling juice, olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
2. Secure the lid tightly and shake well until combined.

Step 3: Combine Everything Before Serving

Just before serving:
1. Pour the dressing over the salad.
2. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
3. Serve immediately for the freshest taste!

How to Serve Summer Strawberry Salad

Summer Strawberry Salad is not only refreshing but also versatile, making it a great dish for various occasions. It pairs beautifully with different proteins or can be served as a standalone dish for light meals.

As a Main Dish

• Add Grilled Chicken: Top the salad with sliced grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
• Include Shrimp: Toss in some sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with BBQ: This salad is a perfect side for barbecued meats, balancing out rich flavors.
• Serve with Sandwiches: It makes a delightful side to turkey or ham sandwiches, adding freshness to your meal.

For Picnics and Gatherings

• Packable Option: Layer ingredients in jars for easy transport to picnics. Keep the dressing separate until serving.
• Buffet Style: Offer this salad at potlucks or gatherings where guests can help themselves.

How to Perfect Summer Strawberry Salad

To ensure your Summer Strawberry Salad is at its best, follow these simple tips.

• Bold Flavors: Use fresh, ripe strawberries and other fruits for maximum flavor.
• Balance Textures: Combine crunchy pecans with creamy goat cheese for an exciting mouthfeel.
• Chill Ingredients: Keep all salad components cold before serving to enhance freshness.
• Customize Dressings: Experiment with different vinegars or add herbs like mint for extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Summer Strawberry Salad

This delightful salad pairs well with various side dishes, enhancing your meal experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and grilled asparagus adds a smoky flavor that complements the salad.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a seasonal touch that pairs well with fruity salads.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf can provide a satisfying grain option alongside the fresh flavors of the salad.
4. Caprese Skewers: These skewers of mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes are a colorful addition that contrasts nicely with the strawberry salad.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables offer warmth and depth of flavor, balancing out the salad’s lightness.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy breadsticks will be loved by everyone and make great dippers into any leftover vinaigrette.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating a delicious Summer Strawberry Salad is simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Here are some tips to ensure your salad shines.

• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or frozen fruits can compromise flavor. Always opt for fresh strawberries and other ingredients to elevate the dish.
• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can make your salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to achieve the right balance.
• Neglecting Texture Variety: A salad without texture can feel flat. Include crispy pecans and creamy goat cheese to create an exciting mix of textures.
• Ignoring Seasonality: Using off-season fruits may lead to a less flavorful salad. Stick with seasonal produce for the best taste, ensuring freshness and vibrant flavors.
• Assembling Too Early: Making the salad too far in advance can result in wilted greens. Combine ingredients right before serving for optimal freshness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the Summer Strawberry Salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Summer Strawberry Salad

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad due to its fresh ingredients.
• Freezing may change the texture of fruits like strawberries and oranges.

Reheating Summer Strawberry Salad

• Oven: Not recommended, as salads are best served cold.
• Microwave: Avoid reheating; salads should be enjoyed fresh.
• Stovetop: Not applicable; this recipe is meant to be served cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Summer Strawberry Salad?

Yes! Feel free to add other seasonal fruits or nuts according to your taste preferences.

What can I substitute for goat cheese in Summer Strawberry Salad?

You can use feta or even cottage cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How can I make my dressing healthier?

You could reduce the amount of honey or substitute it with a sugar-free sweetener for a lighter option.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the goat cheese or use a plant-based alternative, and replace honey with agave syrup.

Final Thoughts

This Summer Strawberry Salad is a delightful combination of freshness, sweetness, and crunch that embodies summer’s essence. Its versatility allows you to tailor it to your taste preferences or seasonal availability. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fruits and nuts—this recipe invites creativity! Enjoy making it for gatherings, picnics, or simply as a refreshing side dish at home.