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 greens (spinach, arugula, or your choice); 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup balsamic glaze; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Ideas

When I first combined strawberries and goat cheese in a salad, I was amazed by the contrast of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the strawberries perfectly complements the tangy creaminess of the goat cheese, and the crunch of the greens brings everything together beautifully. I love this salad not only for its vibrant colors but also for how easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that's both refreshing and indulgent—perfect for a light lunch or as a side for dinner.

Created by

Verity Langdon

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:46:37.357Z

My journey with this salad began on a sunny afternoon. I wanted something light but satisfying, and the idea of combining fresh strawberries with creamy goat cheese struck me. I added a sprinkle of walnuts for crunch and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness. Each bite was a burst of flavor, and I knew I had stumbled upon a winning combination.

What really makes this salad special is the balance of flavors. The acidity in the balsamic glaze enhances the sweetness of the strawberries while the goat cheese provides that rich, creamy texture. I often prepare it as a quick meal or a vibrant side dish for gatherings, and it never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love This Salad
The delightful contrast between sweet strawberries and tangy goat cheese
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Great as a stand-alone dish or as a complement to your main meal
Nutritious and packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh ingredients

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Fresh ingredients are crucial in this salad, especially when it comes to the strawberries. Look for bright red strawberries that are firm to the touch, as they indicate peak ripeness and sweetness. If you're making this salad during off-seasons, consider using frozen strawberries, but remember to thaw them and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture from making your greens soggy.

The mixed greens you choose can also impact the salad's flavor profile significantly. Spinach adds a mild taste, while arugula contributes a peppery kick. For variations, you might experiment with greens like kale or spring mix, just ensure any tougher greens are shredded finely to maintain even texture.

Balancing Textures and Flavors

The combination of textures in this salad—from the creamy goat cheese to the crunchy walnuts—creates a satisfying eating experience. If you're looking for a creamier base, you might swap goat cheese for feta or a soft blue cheese. However, don't overlook the importance of the walnuts; their crunch beautifully offsets the soft cheese and tender greens.

When it comes to dressing, the balsamic glaze not only adds sweetness but also a glossy finish to the salad. If you want to enhance the flavors further, try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the balsamic glaze; this subtle addition will elevate the salad and create a more complex flavor profile that beautifully harmonizes with the strawberries and goat cheese.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or your choice)
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup balsamic glaze
Salt and pepper to taste

Enjoy your salad!

Instructions

Prepare the Greens

In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens. This will serve as the base of your salad.

Add the Strawberries

Top the greens with the sliced strawberries, spreading them evenly throughout the salad.

Include Goat Cheese and Walnuts

Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese and chopped walnuts over the strawberries to add creaminess and crunch.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the salad immediately for the freshest flavor, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your fresh salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding sliced red onions or a handful of fresh herbs like basil or mint.

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad can be partially prepared in advance for busy days. You can wash and dry the mixed greens, then store them in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. The goat cheese can also be crumbled ahead of time and stored separately, preserving its texture. Just remember to cut the strawberries right before serving; they’re best enjoyed fresh for optimal sweetness and color.

If you're planning to enjoy leftovers, store the components separately: keep the dressing in a jar and add it right before serving to prevent the greens from wilting. This way, even day-old salad maintains its crispness, and you can savor the delightful flavors of strawberries and goat cheese without compromising on texture.

Serving Suggestions

This salad serves beautifully as a light lunch, but it can also complement heartier meals. Consider pairing it with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced dinner. Alternatively, it can accompany pasta dishes or even serve as a refreshing side to a barbecue, enhancing the overall dining experience.

For a twist, try serving your salad in a hollowed-out cucumber or bell pepper. Not only does this add a fun visual element, but it also incorporates additional textures and flavors. You could even transform this dish into a wrap by allowing the ingredients to inspire a colorful filling for lettuce or spinach leaves, turning your salad into a delightful handheld snack.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You can pre-chop the ingredients and store them separately, but it's best to dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh.

→ What can I substitute for goat cheese?

You can use feta cheese or even a creamy blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

→ How can I make this salad more filling?

Add protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or turkey for a heartier meal.

→ What type of greens works best?

A mix of spinach and arugula gives a nice peppery and sweet flavor, but feel free to use any greens you prefer.