Looking for a salad that’s as tasty as it is refreshing? Salads with strawberries and pecans are the perfect solution. They work wonderfully as either a side dish or a light meal, especially during the warmer months when strawberries are at their peak.
The combination of sweet strawberries, crunchy pecans, and often a creamy cheese, creates a flavor explosion that almost everyone enjoys.
Key ingredients for the perfect strawberry pecan salad
When it comes to building a delicious strawberry pecan salad, a few ingredients are key:
- Salad greens. Spring mix and baby spinach are light and mild, but you could also use red romaine or mixed greens. The type of greens you choose will affect the overall taste and texture.
- Strawberries. Fresh, ripe strawberries are a must for sweetness and flavor. Slice them thinly so their flavor is distributed throughout the salad. If it’s strawberry season, consider using locally grown berries.
- Pecans. Pecans add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. Candied pecans will add a sweeter note, or you can toast plain pecans to bring out their flavor.
- Cheese. Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty, tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the berries. Tomato-basil feta adds yet another layer of flavor. Goat cheese is another good option if you’re not a fan of feta.
Crafting a Delicious Strawberry Vinaigrette
No salad is complete without a great dressing, and a homemade strawberry vinaigrette is easier to make than you might think.
Base Ingredients
The base of this dressing is a good-quality extra virgin olive oil, which adds richness and body. For tanginess, add apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar.
Strawberry Infusion
Blend fresh strawberries into the vinaigrette to bring the salad’s starring ingredient to the dressing, too. If you want it a little sweeter, add a touch of honey or maple syrup.
A strawberry dressing will elevate the salad’s overall flavor profile.
Seasoning
Dried basil complements strawberries and cheese, and a little salt and pepper will bring out the other flavors. Keep tasting and adjusting until you reach the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
How to make a strawberry pecan salad
- In a big bowl, mix together the greens, strawberries, pecans, and cheese. Be gentle so you don’t bruise the berries.
- Drizzle the strawberry vinaigrette over the top. Be careful not to use too much dressing, or the salad will get soggy.
- You can serve it right away, or put it in the fridge for later.
Serving suggestions:
- Add grilled chicken or salmon to make it a full meal.
- Bring it to a barbecue or picnic.
- Add some blueberries for a red, white, and blue theme.
In Closing
Strawberry pecan salad is simple to make, but it looks and tastes elegant. It also works well for casual meals or special occasions.
The next time you want a salad that’s fresh and flavorful, try a salad with strawberries and pecans. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients until you find the perfect combination for your tastes!