Strawberry Feta Salad 

This strawberry feta salad is fast and easy to make. It combines spring mix lettuce, balsamic strawberries, roughly chopped pistachios, sliced avocado, and feta cheese (I use vegan feta cheese). The distinctive flavor is fresh, and the feel is summery. 

Fruit is my secret salad ingredient

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In my family, I am known for my salads. This particular salad I started making one spring when I had too many strawberries. I had seen on menus balsamic strawberries, and I thought I would give it a go.

The first time, meh. The second time I added salt, and it was a tad better. But what was missing was a sweetener. I tried it with agave, maple syrup, and homemade vegan honey. By now, I was on my fifth test, and maple syrup was the clear winner. Its thickness created a marinate that stuck to the strawberries instead of dripping off. Now it’s a family favorite and requested at all get-togethers when strawberries are in season.

Made with love,
– Ruth

What Makes This Recipe Different

What is a Strawberry Feta Salad?

It is a fresh strawberry salad made with feta cheese crumbles. The flavor profile is built around intensifying the berry flavor. Each component was selected to add texture or flavor that complements the berries. The pistachios add texture. The avocado adds a creaminess, and the feta cheese offsets the sweetness with a touch of sour. 

What Does Balsamic Vinegar Do to Strawberries?

The acidity of balsamic vinegar acts as a flavor enhancer. It cuts through the sugar and brings out the sweet strawberry flavors.

Ingredients for the Best Strawberry Feta Salad

How to Make a Strawberry Feta Salad (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Step One: Marinate the strawberries

In a small bowl, mix the balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Then set aside. Next, hull and slice the strawberries. Place the strawberry slices in the bowl with the marinade, toss to coat, and let sit for 10 minutes.

Step Two: Make the balsamic vinaigrette

In a small bowl or jar, you want to whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until the balsamic vinaigrette is emulsified.

Step Three: Assemble the salad

Start by placing the spring mix in a large bowl. Then top with the marinated strawberries, sliced avocado, roughly chopped pistachios, fresh mint, and feta/vegan feta cheese.

Step Four: Dress and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and serve.

Strawberry Feta Salad Variations

Nuts

You can substitute any nut for the pistachios. My favorite is pine nuts; they have a mild and buttery flavor. For a stronger flavor, you can use walnuts or pecans.

Protein

Try adding a cup of chickpeas or a ¼ cup of quinoa for extra protein.

Fruit

Not too sure about strawberries? Try peaches instead. They are the perfect variation.

Expert Tips

Strawberries

Strawberries are ranked number two in the dirty dozen for the highest pesticide residue. Before using them, be sure to give them a good rinse and pat them dry. (Source)

Lettuce

After washing your lettuce, you will need to dry it with a tea towel or salad spinner to remove all the water.

Avocado

Wait until the last minute to slice your avocado. If you are taking this salad to a party or work gathering, toss the avocado in lemon juice before adding it to the salad. This will keep it looking fresh.

What to Serve with a Strawberry Feta Salad

• Harissa Chickpeas
• Pistachio Pesto Pasta
• Greek Spinach Rice

Storing and Making Ahead of Time

This salad tastes best fresh. To prepare this salad ahead of time, you want to prep all the components except the avocado and store them separately. Then, just before serving, slice the avocado and assemble the salad (steps three and four) and serve.