Strawberry Arugula Salad Balsamic (Printable)

Fresh arugula and strawberries combine with tangy balsamic glaze and creamy goat cheese for a vibrant spring dish.

# What you need:

→ Salad

01 - 6 cups fresh arugula, washed and dried
02 - 2 cups ripe strawberries, hulled and sliced
03 - 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
04 - 3/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
05 - 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
06 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Balsamic Glaze

07 - 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
08 - 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

→ Dressing

09 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
10 - 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
11 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

# Directions:

01 - In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey or maple syrup. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and simmer for 4-5 minutes until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and cool completely.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and sea salt until well combined.
03 - In a large salad bowl, combine arugula, sliced strawberries, and red onion.
04 - Drizzle the olive oil and lemon dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
05 - Add crumbled goat cheese and toasted pecans or walnuts. Toss lightly or arrange toppings for presentation.
06 - Drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving. Finish with freshly ground black pepper.

# Expert tips:

01 -
  • Combines fresh, seasonal ingredients for vibrant flavor and color.
  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for spring entertaining.
  • The balsamic glaze adds a unique tangy sweetness that complements the salad beautifully.
  • Vegetarian and gluten-free, accommodating many dietary preferences.
  • Beautiful presentation ideal for dinner parties or casual meals alike.
02 -
  • Use ripe but firm strawberries to avoid sogginess in the salad.
  • Make the balsamic glaze a day ahead and store it refrigerated; gently rewarm before serving.
  • Toss the salad gently to keep the arugula crisp and presentation neat.
  • Always toast nuts to unlock their flavor and enhance crunch.
Go back