Name: Strawberry Salad with Toasted Nuts, Feta, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup pecans, almonds, or walnuts (50g); 5 ounces mixed greens (such as baby spinach or arugula, about 5 cups); ¼ cup sliced red onion (30g); 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries (150g); ½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (55g); 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil (60ml)

If you’ve been searching for a fresh, vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and texture, look no further than this Strawberry Salad with Toasted Nuts, Feta, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe. It’s a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, crunchy, and creamy all in one bowl. The fresh strawberries bring a juicy brightness, while toasted nuts add a satisfying crunch. The crumbled feta offers a creamy, salty contrast perfectly complemented by a luscious balsamic vinaigrette. This salad isn’t just beautiful—it’s a celebration of summer’s best flavors, easily prepared in under 30 minutes and stunning enough to serve at any gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with various ingredients arranged neatly. At the top left is a small red onion, next to it a bright yellow lemon, and to the right a clear bowl filled with green salad leaves. Below the onion is a jar of light yellow Dijon mustard, and underneath it is a small wooden bowl of white salt next to a small white bowl of black pepper. On the left middle side is a clear bowl with white soft cheese, and below it a pile of walnuts. At the bottom middle is a dark bottle of balsamic vinegar with a cream-colored neck, and to the right of it is a green bottle of extra virgin olive oil. Next to the salad bowl, slightly to the bottom right, is a clear bowl filled with bright red strawberries. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Strawberry Salad with Toasted Nuts, Feta, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in layering flavor and texture. From crunchy nuts to fresh, vibrant greens and juicy strawberries, every component is essential to making this salad truly shine.

Pecans, almonds, or walnuts: Toast these nuts to awaken their flavor and add a satisfying crunch.
Mixed greens (baby spinach or arugula): A fresh, leafy base that adds color and a subtle peppery note.
Sliced red onion: Adds a sharp and tangy bite, balancing the sweetness of strawberries.
Fresh strawberries: The star ingredient bringing natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Crumbled feta or goat cheese: Creamy and salty, it contrasts beautifully with the sweet elements.
Balsamic vinegar: Provides a rich acidity that sharpens the flavors of the salad.
Lemon juice: Adds bright citrus notes that enhance the vinaigrette’s freshness.
Dijon mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing and adds a subtle tang.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring everything together.
Extra virgin olive oil: Creates a smooth, silky vinaigrette that coats every bite.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Strawberry Salad with Toasted Nuts, Feta, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe

Step 1: Toast the Nuts to Perfect Crunchiness

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread your choice of nuts evenly on a small baking sheet and toast them for 8 to 10 minutes. This step unlocks a deeper nutty aroma and adds a crispy texture that plays harmoniously with the softness of strawberries and feta. Once toasted, set them aside to cool completely — this prevents wilting your greens later.

Step 2: Prepare the Fresh Salad Base

In a large serving bowl, gently combine the mixed greens, sliced red onions, juicy strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese. Using fresh and bright ingredients here ensures each bite bursts with vibrant flavor and varied textures, from peppery greens to honey-sweet strawberries and creamy cheese.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Balsamic Vinaigrette

In a medium bowl, whisk balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Slowly drizzle in extra virgin olive oil while continuously whisking to create an emulsified, velvety dressing. If you prefer, use a mason jar to shake all ingredients until perfectly combined—easy and mess-free!

Step 4: Assemble Your Strawberry Salad with Toasted Nuts, Feta, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe

Just before serving, sprinkle the cooled toasted nuts over the salad. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette generously on top. Toss gently if you like, or leave it as is to showcase the salad’s stunning colors. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. This last step makes the salad fresh, flavorful, and irresistibly inviting.

How to Serve Strawberry Salad with Toasted Nuts, Feta, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe

The image shows a fresh salad in a white bowl on a white marbled surface, filled with green spinach leaves, thin slices of red strawberries, finely sliced white onions, and small pieces of chopped walnuts. A jar is held above the bowl by a woman's hand, pouring a smooth brown dressing over the colorful salad. The textures of the leaves look soft and fresh, while the walnuts add a crunchy element, and the dressing adds a shiny, moist layer on top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Strawberry Salad with Toasted Nuts, Feta, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or mint for an herbal twist. A light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or even edible flowers can make the salad feel extra special and visually stunning.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as a refreshing side alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or a charcuterie board. The sweet and tangy notes contrast beautifully with savory grilled meats or creamy cheeses, turning a simple meal into a memorable feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this salad in individual mason jars for picnics or lunches on the go, layering the ingredients so the dressing stays separate until ready to eat. Alternatively, arrange the salad colorful and artfully on a large platter for a lovely centerpiece at your next dinner party or potluck.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers of this Strawberry Salad with Toasted Nuts, Feta, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. To prevent sogginess, keep the toasted nuts and dressing separate until just before serving again.

Freezing

Since this salad is made with fresh greens and delicate fruits, it’s not suitable for freezing. The texture of strawberries and greens will deteriorate when thawed, so it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh for the brightest taste and crunch.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. The fresh ingredients can lose their appeal when warmed, so it’s perfect as a crunchy, refreshing dish for anytime you crave freshness.

FAQs

Can I use different nuts in the Strawberry Salad with Toasted Nuts, Feta, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe?

Absolutely! Pecans, walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios work wonderfully. Toasting any nut enhances its flavor, so customize it according to your preference or what you have on hand.

Is there a good substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta, goat cheese is an excellent alternative for creaminess and tang. For a dairy-free option, consider adding avocado slices to maintain a creamy texture.

How far ahead can I prepare this salad?

You can toast the nuts and prepare the vinaigrette up to a day ahead. However, combine all ingredients and dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and strawberries fresh.

Can I make the balsamic vinaigrette without Dijon mustard?

Yes, though Dijon mustard helps emulsify the dressing and adds a slight depth of flavor. If unavailable, you can omit it or replace it with a small amount of honey or maple syrup for sweetness.

What type of greens work best for this salad?

Baby spinach and arugula are the preferred options for their tender texture and subtle peppery notes. You can experiment with mixed baby greens or even watercress to add your own twist.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Salad with Toasted Nuts, Feta, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe is more than just a salad — it’s a joyful celebration of flavors that feels both sophisticated and simple. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, an impressive side dish, or a light dinner, this recipe delivers freshness and satisfaction in every bite. I can’t recommend it enough, and I hope you have as much fun making and savoring it as I do sharing it with friends and family!

Strawberry Salad with Toasted Nuts, Feta, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Strawberry Salad with Toasted Nuts, Feta, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe