Although we’re midway through summer, I’m still on my hot girl fitness journey lol. As many unhealthy recipes I share with you all, trust me, I’m still keeping it cute behind closed doors which is why I’m in awe of this goat cheese and strawberry salad that I’ve created. Trust me, this is the perfect summer salad for cookouts, family reunions, church gatherings, etc. The best thing about this recipe is that it can also be served as a great side salad for any main dish which is why it is my favorite salad recipe for this summer. Also, it’s strawberry season, so this is the perfect recipe to enjoy fresh and sweet strawberries.
This fresh salad is also a great choice as a side if trying to limit carbs or taking a healthy alternative route. Also, for all my non-pescatarians out there reading this posts, you can add chicken breasts to this recipe to boost your protein intake. However, for my pescatarian baddies, feel free to add grilled shrimp or salmon as a wonderful source of protein.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
- Healthy options that is easy to store.
- Refreshing recipe that requires minimal time to make
- Versatile recipe as it can be a dinner portion or a great side dish alternative.
- You can add proteins such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak.
- Very similar to a spinach strawberry salad, but with more flavor.
Common Questions about the Goat Cheese and Strawberry Salad:
1. How can I store the simple ingredients for the recipe?
- The ingredients for this delicious salad can be stored in a separate airtight container for all ingredients to avoid withering.
2. Are there any alternatives for the leafy greens?
- Yes, you can use spinach, baby greens, arugula salad, or anything labeled, “spring mix” for the recipe.
3. Do I need to buy a goat cheese log or goat cheese crumbles?
- Either will work fine, however, the goat cheese log may be a bit more fresh.
4. Is there an alternative to goat cheese?
- This recipe was not tested with anything other than goat cheese, however, feta cheese is a known substitution.
Simple Salad Ingredients:
- Mixed greens – fresh mixed greens is the base of the dish that is also adds a refreshing element for the salad
- Goat Cheese – Known for its tangy flavor and creamy texture, goat cheese is slightly tart, but adds a savory taste to the salad.
- Red onions – Blances the sweetness of the strawberries and richness of the goat cheese. The red onions are also a nice crunch texture to this strawberry and goat cheese recipe.
- Walnuts – Walnuts offers a nutty and crunchy flavor profile that pairs incredibly well with the creaminess of the goat cheese and the strawberry’s sweetness.
- Homemade balsamic vinaigrette – adds a refreshing and acidic component which pairs all ingredients.
- Strawberry – The sweet and juicy elements of fresh strawberries are a great contrast to the goat cheese’s tanginess. Other fresh berries may be used as an alternative as well.
Simple Orange Balsamic Vinaigrette:
Cointreau – Add a citrus note, specifically orange that pairs well with the goat cheese.
Extra virgin olive oil – subltle flavor that cuts the tanginess of the balsamic vinegar.
Balsamic Vinegar – Fruity notes with a tangy flavor that adds a bit of acidity.
Honey – Balances the acidity of the balsamic vinegar while adding sweetness to the overall dish.
Dijon mustard – emulsifies and enhances the flavor of the overall vinaigrette.
Kosher Salt and pepper to taste.
Basic Instructions for the Fresh Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad:
- Clean and prep all vegetables and ingredients for both salad and dressing ingredients. Set aside in a small bowl.
- In a medium or large bowl, add your mixed greens, red onions, fruit, walnuts, and cheese.
- Once you add all ingredients, combine all liquid components for the simple balsamic vinaigrette.
- Be sure to mix all ingredients until homogenous for the best flavor.
- Drizzle the homemade dressing over your fresh salad and enjoy your healthy, yet refreshing dish!
For the full recipe, please review the recipe card below for more detailed instructions.
If you liked this recipe, try my other healthy recipes:
Goat Cheese and Strawberry Salad
Perfect salad for summer - try this goat cheese and strawberry salad recipe!
Ingredients
Orange Balsamic Vinaigrette
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Honey
- 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons cointreau
- 1 teaspoon Herbs de provence
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Goat Cheese and Strawberry Salad Ingredients
- 5 oz Mixed green salad
- 1/2 cup Walnuts
- 1/2 cup Red onion, sliced
- 2 oz Goat cheese
- 1 to 1 1/2 cup Fresh Strawberries
Instructions
- Clean the strawberries by rinsing any residual dirt from the berries.
- Prep all vegetables for the salad as the dressing melds.
- In a medium sized bowl, add all the balsamic ingredients.
- Using a whisk blend all ingredients until smooth. Another option is to place into a airtight container with a lid and shake.
- Taste to ensure the ingredients are to your liking and once it is, cover bowl with sedan wrap and set aside to room temperature or in the refrigerator.
- Using a cutting board and pairing knife, slice the clean strawberries and set aside.
- Slice the red onions into half-sized rings and set aside.
- Using a fork, crumble the goat cheese log and set aside as it will the topping/garnish.
- In a large bowl, start to assembling your salad by adding the mix greens and balsamic dressing.
- Toss the greens in the salad dressing until dressing is evenly distributed.
- Add the mixed greens to your plate for your base.
- Next add the strawberries, crunchy walnuts, and onions.
- Lastly, top the salad with the goat cheese.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 347Total Fat: 29gSaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 21gCholesterol: 13mgSodium: 347mgCarbohydrates: 15gFiber: 2gSugar: 10gProtein: 9g
This may not 100% as it is an estimate.