Salad with Strawberries and Goat Cheese

Name: Salad with Strawberries and Goat Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed salad greens; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese; 1/4 cup sliced almonds; 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Highlighted under: Wholesome Cooking

I absolutely love making this Salad with Strawberries and Goat Cheese during the summer months when strawberries are at their sweetest. The combination of fresh greens, tangy goat cheese, and juicy berries creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. It's incredibly simple to prepare, making it the perfect dish for picnics or a light lunch. The dressing is a light vinaigrette that ties everything together beautifully. Trust me, once you try this salad, you'll be making it time and time again!

Created by

Camille Norwood

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:51:38.279Z

When I first made this salad, I was surprised at how well the flavors complemented each other. The sweetness of the strawberries paired perfectly with the creamy goat cheese, creating a delightful balance. I also experimented with different greens, and I found that baby spinach works wonderfully to enhance the flavors.

As a tip, make sure to gently toss the salad right before serving. This keeps the greens crisp and ensures that the dressing coats everything evenly. It's a crowd-pleaser that I often serve at gatherings.

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        The vibrant colors brighten up any table setting
A harmonious blend of sweetness and creaminess
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy days

      

Perfect Pairings

The combination of strawberries and goat cheese is a classic for good reason. The sweetness of the strawberries contrasts beautifully with the creamy, tangy notes of goat cheese. Choosing ripe, fragrant strawberries is crucial; they should be deep red and slightly firm to the touch for the best flavor and texture. If strawberries are out of season, consider using blackberries or raspberries, both of which will provide a similar burst of flavor and color.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like mint or basil, which pair exceptionally well with the strawberries. Simply chop a handful and toss them in with the salad. Not only do they elevate the taste, but they also enhance the overall presentation, making the salad visually appealing.

Enhancing the Vinaigrette

The balsamic vinaigrette is what truly ties this salad together, offering a sweet and tangy contrast to the other ingredients. For a gourmet twist, try infusing your vinaigrette with a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to enhance the sweetness and round out the flavors. If you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add an unexpected kick.

Creating your vinaigrette from scratch is simple and allows for adjustments to suit your taste. Whisk together equal parts balsamic vinegar and high-quality olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and taste before adding any extras. This way, you can control the thickness and flavor intensity of the dressing, ensuring it complements rather than overwhelms the salad.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious salad.

Salad Ingredients

4 cups mixed salad greens
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s prepare this delightful salad.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your salad.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, sliced strawberries, and crumbled goat cheese.

Add Almonds

Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top of the salad for added crunch.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine.

Serve

Divide the salad into serving bowls and enjoy immediately.

Enjoy your fresh and flavorful salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or mint to the salad. They pair wonderfully with the strawberries and goat cheese.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container but keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting. The salad can last in the fridge for up to a day, but for the best flavor and texture, it's recommended to enjoy it fresh. If you're preparing this for later, consider layering the ingredients in the container—place dressing at the bottom, followed by sturdier ingredients like almonds and goat cheese, and finish with the salad greens and strawberries on top.

When you're ready to serve the salad, simply shake the container to mix the ingredients with the dressing or transfer the salad to a larger bowl for easy tossing. This not only preserves freshness but also keeps the presentation intact for when you're ready to dig in.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be the star of a light lunch or a vibrant side dish at dinner. For a more substantial meal, you can add grilled chicken or tuna, which would pair nicely with the sweetness of the strawberries and the creaminess of the cheese. An additional sprinkle of fresh herbs can help tie it all together and elevate the overall flavor profile.

I also love serving this salad alongside some crusty bread or a light soup for a well-rounded meal. If you're entertaining, consider making individual servings in small jars for a fun presentation that makes it easy for guests to grab a salad without needing a serving spoon!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

It's best to prepare the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh, but you can store the ingredients separately in the fridge for up to a day.

→ What other fruits can I add?

You can experiment with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even sliced peaches for a different flavor profile.

→ Is it okay to use feta cheese instead of goat cheese?

Yes, feta cheese is a great substitute and will give your salad a different but delicious tang.

→ How can I make it vegan?

You can omit the cheese and replace the honey in the dressing with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan version.