Description
A vibrant and fresh Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette paired with a light fruit and greens salad, combining the sweetness of berries and peaches with tangy goat cheese and crunchy honey roasted almonds for a perfect spring or summer dish.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1 cup sliced strawberries
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced shallot
- 1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup olive oil
Salad
- 5 ounces spring mix lettuce blend (6 cups; 50/50 spinach and spring mix leaves)
- 1 large ripe peach, sliced into wedges, pit removed
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced in half
- 1/2 cup blackberries
- 1/2 cup sliced honey roasted almonds (pre-made)
- 1/3 cup goat cheese or feta cheese
Instructions
- Start Dressing: Combine the sliced strawberries, water, balsamic vinegar, minced shallot, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small blender. Blend on high for about 10 seconds until the mixture is smooth and pureed.
- Finish Dressing: Add the olive oil to the blender and continue blending until the dressing thickens and emulsifies into a creamy vinaigrette. Taste and adjust salt or honey as needed. Transfer the dressing to a jar and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Prepare Salad: Thoroughly wash and dry all fruit and greens. In a large salad bowl, place the spring mix and spinach blend. When ready to eat, add the sliced peaches, halved strawberries, and blackberries on top.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the sliced honey roasted almonds and goat cheese (or feta) over the salad portions to be consumed the same day to maintain freshness and texture.
- Dress and Serve: Right before serving, drizzle your desired amount of the chilled strawberry balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. The recipe suggests using just over one-third of the dressing for the whole salad.
Notes
- The dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries and peaches for the best flavor.
- Adjust honey to taste if you prefer a sweeter vinaigrette.
- For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup and use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- To keep almonds crunchy, add them just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad Dressing and Salad
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
