Spring Dinner Party Salad (Printable)

Vibrant salad with strawberries, arugula, goat cheese, pecans, and a tangy balsamic glaze.

# 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

# Steps:

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

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal cooking required
  • Perfectly balanced flavors of sweet, tangy, peppery, and creamy
  • Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free
  • Beautiful presentation that impresses guests
  • Uses fresh, seasonal ingredients at their peak
  • Versatile enough to serve as a side or light main course
02 -
  • Make the balsamic glaze ahead and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks
  • Slice strawberries uniformly for even distribution and attractive presentation
  • Toss the salad gently to avoid bruising the delicate arugula leaves
  • Add the balsamic glaze just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy
  • Reserve a few whole strawberries and pecan halves for garnishing the top
  • Use a mandoline to slice the red onion paper-thin for the best texture
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