Fresh Summer Strawberry Salad

This Summer Strawberry Salad celebrates the vibrant flavors of berry season with a refreshing combination that brightens any table. The contrast of sweet berries against tangy goat cheese creates a perfect balance while the orange vinaigrette ties everything together with a citrusy sparkle.

The first time I served this at a backyard gathering, guests couldn't stop raving about the combination of flavors. Now it's become my signature summer dish that everyone expects me to bring to potlucks and barbecues.

Ingredients

• Spring mix forms the fresh base allowing the colorful toppings to shine
• Strawberries provide natural sweetness and that iconic summer flavor
• Blueberries add bursts of antioxidant richness and beautiful color contrast
• Mandarin oranges contribute citrus notes that brighten every bite
• Pecans deliver satisfying crunch and subtle buttery flavor
• Goat cheese brings creamy tanginess that balances the sweet fruit
• Green onions add a mild savory note to round out the flavors
• Sparkling orange juice creates an effervescent dressing base
• White balsamic vinegar offers gentle acidity without overpowering the fruit
• Honey helps bind the dressing while enhancing the natural sweetness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the fruits

Clean and slice strawberries into even pieces, ensuring they're completely dry to prevent diluting the dressing. Rinse blueberries and pat dry. Drain mandarin orange segments thoroughly.

Toast the pecans

For enhanced flavor, lightly toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Allow to cool completely before adding to salad.

Assemble the salad

Start with spring mix in a large bowl, then artfully arrange berries, oranges, pecans and crumbled goat cheese on top. Sprinkle with green onions just before serving for freshness.

Make the dressing

Combine sparkling orange juice, olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, honey, salt and pepper in a jar with a tight lid. Shake vigorously until the honey is fully incorporated and the dressing becomes slightly emulsified.

Serve properly

Wait until the very last moment to dress the salad to maintain maximum crispness. Drizzle just enough dressing to lightly coat ingredients, serving additional dressing on the side.

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The sparkling orange juice is my favorite ingredient discovery for this salad. I stumbled upon it while developing this recipe, and the subtle effervescence it brings to the dressing transforms an ordinary vinaigrette into something truly special. My daughter now requests this specific dressing for all her salads.

Seasonal Adaptations

This salad shines brightest during peak strawberry season typically from late spring through summer. However, you can enjoy variations year-round by substituting seasonal fruits. In fall, try swapping strawberries for sliced apples or pears with a sprinkle of cinnamon in the dressing. Winter versions work beautifully with sectioned citrus and pomegranate seeds, while spring calls for tender young berries and edible flowers.

Make-Ahead Strategy

While this salad is best assembled just before serving, you can prep components up to 24 hours ahead. Wash and dry greens, then store with a paper towel in a sealed container. Slice strawberries, prepare other fruits, and store separately. Toast nuts and make dressing in advance. When ready to serve, simply assemble all components and dress immediately before presenting.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile salad complements many main dishes, from grilled chicken or salmon to quiche or pasta. For a complete meal, serve alongside a crusty baguette and chilled soup. Consider offering it as part of a summer brunch spread or alongside sandwiches for a lunch gathering. The vibrant colors make it particularly appealing for baby or bridal showers where presentation matters.

Texture Variations

Experiment with different textural elements to customize this salad to your preference. For additional crunch, try adding cucumber slices, jicama sticks, or toasted almond slivers. Create more creaminess by incorporating avocado chunks or substituting burrata for the goat cheese. For a heartier version, add quinoa or farro as a base beneath the greens to transform it into a satisfying grain bowl.

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Common Questions

→ Can I make this strawberry salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead of time, but it's best to assemble just before serving. Wash and slice the strawberries, prepare other ingredients, and store them separately in the refrigerator. Make the dressing and keep it in a sealed jar. Combine everything when ready to serve to maintain the freshest texture and prevent the greens from wilting.

→ What can I substitute for goat cheese?

If you don't enjoy goat cheese, you can substitute with feta cheese for a similar tangy flavor but different texture. For a milder option, try fresh mozzarella pearls. If you prefer dairy-free, avocado provides a creamy texture, or you could use a plant-based cheese alternative.

→ How long does the orange vinaigrette keep?

The sparkling orange vinaigrette can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Since it contains sparkling juice, it will gradually lose its effervescence over time. Shake well before using, and you may want to let it come to room temperature if the olive oil solidifies in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Fresh berries provide the best texture and flavor for this summer salad. However, if fresh aren't available, you can use thawed frozen berries. Be sure to drain them well to prevent excess moisture from making the salad soggy. Pat them dry with paper towels before adding to the salad.

→ What protein would pair well with this salad?

This strawberry salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp for a complete meal. For vegetarian options, add chickpeas or quinoa. The orange vinaigrette complements these proteins well, and you can even use it as a marinade for the chicken or seafood before grilling.

→ Is there a substitute for the sparkling orange juice?

If you can't find Sanpellegrino orange juice, you can substitute with regular orange juice mixed with a splash of club soda or sparkling water. In a pinch, just orange juice works fine, though you'll lose some of the effervescence that makes the dressing special.