Strawberry Salad: A Refreshing Recipe for Summer Delights

When summer arrives, there’s nothing quite as refreshing and satisfying as a vibrant strawberry salad. It includes all of my favorite things for summer meals – includes seasonal produce, doesn’t require an oven, and is easy to throw together after a long day outside. Packed with juicy strawberries, crisp greens, and a medley of flavors, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a hit with the whole family. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious dish that celebrates the best of summer’s bounty.

Ingredients:

– Strawberries: 1 pound, hulled and sliced

– Blueberries: 1 pint

– Mixed Greens: 5-6 cups (use your favorite mix like baby spinach, arugula, and/or spring mix)

– Red Onion: 1 small, thinly sliced

– Candied Pecans or Walnuts: ½ cup, roughly chopped (optional)

– Balsamic Glaze or Dressing: For drizzling

– Fresh Basil or Mint Leaves: For garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Ingredients:**

   – Wash and hull the strawberries. Slice them into halves or quarters, depending on their size. Wash the blueberries. Thinly slice the red onion.

   – If using, roughly chop the candied pecans or walnuts.

2. **Assemble the Salad:**

   – In a large salad bowl or on individual plates, arrange the mixed greens as the base.

   – Scatter the sliced strawberries, blueberries and red onion over the greens.

   – Sprinkle the candied nuts on top.

3. **Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:**

   – Finish the salad with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze or your favorite balsamic dressing (we love my maple balsamic vinaigrette). This adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the strawberries beautifully.

4. **Garnish and Serve:**

   – Optionally, garnish with fresh basil or mint leaves for a pop of color and added freshness. Not a huge hit with many kids we’ve served, but adults have raved about this simple addition.

Tips for Serving:

• **Make It a Meal:** Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak to turn this salad into a complete and satisfying meal.

• **Prepare Ahead:** You can prepare the components of this salad ahead of time (except for the dressing) and assemble just before serving to keep the greens crisp.

• **Variations:** Feel free to customize the salad by adding other fruits like sliced peaches, feta or goat cheese, or swapping out the nuts for your favorites.

Why Your Family Will Love It:

• **Refreshing and Light:** Perfect for hot summer days, this salad provides a refreshing break with its juicy strawberries and crisp greens.

• **Balanced Flavors:** The combination of sweet strawberries, tart blueberries, tangy balsamic glaze, and crunchy nuts creates a symphony of flavors that appeals to all taste buds.

• **Nutritious and Filling:** Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the fresh produce, this salad is not only tasty but also nutritious, keeping your family satisfied and energized.

Celebrate the flavors of summer with this easy and delicious strawberry salad. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a main course, its simplicity and vibrant flavors make it a perfect addition to any family meal. Gather your ingredients, toss them together, and savor the taste of summer with every bite. Enjoy this delightful salad together with your loved ones and create memories of sunny days and delicious meals. Cheers to a season filled with fresh flavors!