Strawberry Goat Cheese Walnut Salad is a delightful dish that combines fresh flavors and textures. The sweetness of strawberries, the tanginess of goat cheese, and the crunch of walnuts create a delicious balance that is perfect for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
This salad is not only tasty but also nutritious. It is loaded with vitamins from the spinach and strawberries and healthy fats from the walnuts. Plus, it’s a great option for a light lunch, a side dish, or even a festive gathering. The combination of flavors will impress your family and friends.
How to Make Strawberry Goat Cheese Walnut Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 clove garlic (grated or finely minced)
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 5 ounces baby spinach
- 1 pound strawberries (thoroughly washed and sliced)
- 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- ¼ cup diced red onion
Directions:
Make the Balsamic Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, honey, grated garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together until well blended. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, add the baby spinach. Top with the sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, chopped walnuts, and diced red onion. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss everything together until well mixed.
How to Serve Strawberry Goat Cheese Walnut Salad
Serve this salad immediately after making it for the best taste and texture. You can enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal.
How to Store Strawberry Goat Cheese Walnut Salad
If you have leftover salad, it’s best to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it is best eaten fresh to retain the crunchiness of the ingredients. If you want to make it ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve.
Tips to Make Strawberry Goat Cheese Walnut Salad
- Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Toast the walnuts lightly in a dry pan for an extra crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Feel free to add other ingredients, such as avocado, or substitute feta cheese for goat cheese if you prefer.
Variation
You can experiment with different greens like arugula or mixed salad greens. Adding grilled chicken or shrimp can also turn this salad into a more filling meal.
FAQs
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the balsamic vinaigrette in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and shake it well before using.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free ingredients.
Can I substitute other nuts?
Absolutely! You can use almonds or pecans in place of walnuts if you prefer a different flavor or texture.
Strawberry Goat Cheese Walnut Salad
Ingredients
For the balsamic vinaigrette
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 clove garlic (grated or finely minced)
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
For the salad
- 5 ounces baby spinach
- 1 pound strawberries (thoroughly washed and sliced)
- 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- ¼ cup diced red onion
Instructions
Make the Balsamic Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, honey, grated garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together until well blended.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, add the baby spinach.
- Top with the sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, chopped walnuts, and diced red onion.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss everything together until well mixed.