Description
A fresh and vibrant Spring Salad featuring mixed greens, juicy strawberries, crisp cucumber, tangy goat cheese, and toasted pecans, all drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette for a perfect light meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens (baby spinach or arugula)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup goat cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup pecan halves, toasted
Dressing
- ¼ cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Prepare greens: Rinse mixed greens thoroughly under cold water and dry them using a salad spinner to ensure crispness.
- Crumble goat cheese: Break down the goat cheese into small, bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
- Slice strawberries: Hull and slice the strawberries into thin pieces to add a sweet, fresh component.
- Dice cucumber: Cut the cucumber into half-moon shapes, creating crisp texture in the salad.
- Mellow red onion: Soak the thinly sliced red onion in cold water for about 10 minutes to reduce its sharpness and enhance flavor balance.
- Combine and dress: In a large bowl, gently toss all prepared ingredients together. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette just before serving to preserve freshness and flavor.
Notes
- To toast pecans, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant.
- For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- This salad is best served immediately to enjoy the crisp textures and fresh flavors.
- Use freshly made balsamic vinaigrette or a high-quality store-bought one for best taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
