Strawberry Feta Greens Bowl

This strawberry feta salad brightens up any summer meal with its combination of juicy strawberries, creamy feta, and a tangy homemade balsamic vinaigrette. It is my go-to whenever I want something easy but still feels a little bit special for family picnics or quick lunches.

This is my favorite warm weather salad because even picky eaters reach for seconds. The first time I brought this to a barbecue it was gone before any of the main dishes.

Ingredients

• Mixed greens: about five ounces select a fresh bag or bunch with crisp leaves to serve as the base of the salad
• Fresh strawberries: one pint sliced look for berries that are deep red and fragrant for the sweetest flavor
• Red onion: a quarter of a small one thinly sliced adds a zippy bite without overpowering the salad use a sharp knife for super thin slices
• Roasted pecans or walnuts: a quarter cup optional rough chop them to sprinkle for extra crunch toast briefly in a dry pan for more flavor
• Feta cheese: three ounces crumbled choose a good quality feta that is creamy and not too salty and crumble just before adding for the best texture
• Extra virgin olive oil: three tablespoons use the best olive oil you can find since its flavor shines in the dressing
• Balsamic vinegar: one and a half tablespoons real balsamic gives complexity and a little sweetness choose a syrupy versus thin variety if possible
• Honey or maple syrup: one teaspoon balances the acidity of the vinegar with a hint of sweetness
• Dijon mustard: half a teaspoon brings the dressing together and adds subtle spice
• Salt and black pepper: season to taste always use freshly ground black pepper for maximum aroma

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Salad Base:

Add the washed and dried mixed greens to a large salad bowl then neatly layer sliced strawberries and thinly sliced red onion on top

Mix the Dressing:

In a small bowl or jar whisk together the extra virgin olive oil balsamic vinegar honey or maple syrup Dijon mustard salt and black pepper keep whisking until it looks glossy and fully blended

Dress and Toss the Salad:

Evenly drizzle all the dressing over the greens then toss with clean hands or salad tongs just until everything is coated and glistening

Add Toppings:

Sprinkle the crumbled feta and chopped nuts all over the top try to distribute evenly so every bite has a bit of everything

Serve Fresh:

Serve the salad immediately on chilled plates for the crispest greens and best taste

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You Must Know

• High in protein and fiber thanks to nuts and greens
• No gluten and easily made nut free if needed
• Works as a light lunch or a beautiful side dish

Strawberries are my absolute favorite to use here because their sweetness amps up every flavor in the bowl. My family always insists on adding even more feta than the recipe calls for because that salty-creamy bite is just so good together with the berries.

Storage Tips

This salad is best fresh but if you need to store it assemble the greens and strawberries in advance and keep in the fridge without dressing. Add the feta, nuts, and vinaigrette right before serving so everything stays crisp. Leftovers will keep for about one day but some wilting is normal after dressing is added.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of feta try goat cheese for an extra creamy twist. Chopped almonds or sunflower seeds can stand in for the nuts. If fresh strawberries are not available swap in blueberries or thinly sliced apples for a different but still delicious experience.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this salad with grilled chicken for a more filling main dish or serve alongside cold pasta salads for an impressive picnic table. It is a standout on its own but also plays nicely with fresh bread or summer soups.

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History of Strawberry Salads

Pairing strawberries with greens and cheese is a tradition that goes back to both French country kitchens and American springtime celebrations. The combo celebrates the height of local berry season when strawberries are at their sweetest and freshest.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?

Yes, goat cheese is a great substitute for feta, offering a creamy texture and tangy flavor.

→ What greens work best in this salad?

Baby spinach, arugula, or a spring mix add a nice texture and blend well with the other ingredients.

→ Can I make the salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the components in advance, but toss with dressing and add cheese and nuts just before serving.

→ How can I add extra flavor?

Fresh basil or mint leaves bring added freshness, while toasting the nuts boosts aroma and crunch.

→ Is this salad suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free; just check the labels on cheese and condiments for assurance.

→ How can I make the vinaigrette sweeter or tangier?

Adjust the honey or balsamic vinegar in the dressing to taste, balancing sweetness and tanginess as desired.