Easter Salad
Easter Salad is the perfect dish for spring gatherings, blending vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. This delightful Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette is not only visually appealing but also versatile enough for picnics, brunches, or festive Easter dinners. With the sweetness of strawberries, the creaminess of goat cheese, and the crunch of toasted almonds on a bed of mixed greens, it’s sure to impress your guests!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: This salad features seasonal produce that bursts with flavor.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal cooking, you can whip this up in just 20 minutes.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for Easter dinner or as a light lunch on its own.
- Healthful Choice: Packed with nutrients from fresh greens and fruits while being low in calories.
- Beautiful Presentation: The colorful ingredients make this salad a showstopper on any table.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing your Easter Salad easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mason jar or mixing bowl
- Sheet pan
- Mixing spoon
- Whisk (or mini food processor)
Importance of Each Tool
- Mason jar: Ideal for shaking the vinaigrette to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Sheet pan: Provides an even surface for toasting almonds without burning them.
- Whisk: Helps emulsify the vinaigrette if you’re mixing it in a bowl.
Ingredients
Easter Salad — AKA, Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette — is a beautiful, delicious addition to any spring meal. It features sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and toasted almonds on a bed of mixed greens drizzled with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette!
For the Salad
- 1 cup slivered almonds
- 12 ounces mixed spring greens
- 16 ounces strawberries (washed, hulled, & sliced)
- 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese
For the Vinaigrette
- 1/2 cup sunflower, safflower, OR extra-virgin olive oil (neutral-flavored)
- 5 tablespoons freshly-squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (plus additional to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
How to Make Easter Salad
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Adjust the rack to the center position and preheat the oven to 350°. Spread the slivered almonds on a sheet pan. Bake for 5 to 7 minutes until fragrant and light brown. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Set aside and allow to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Vinaigrette
To prepare the vinaigrette:
1. Measure all of the vinaigrette ingredients into a Mason jar.
2. Tightly screw on the lid and shake vigorously until everything is thoroughly combined.
3. Alternatively, whisk together in a medium bowl or blend in a mini food processor.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
To assemble your Easter Salad:
1. Layer mixed greens in a large bowl.
2. Top with sliced strawberries, toasted slivered almonds, and crumbled goat cheese.
3. Just before serving, drizzle with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette and toss until evenly coated.
Enjoy this refreshing Easter Salad as part of your spring celebrations!
How to Serve Easter Salad
Easter Salad is a versatile dish that can complement various meals and occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
As a Light Main Course
- Pair with grilled chicken for a filling yet fresh meal.
- Serve with quinoa or couscous to add substance and texture.
At a Spring Gathering
- Present in a large bowl for guests to serve themselves.
- Use individual portions in mason jars for an added touch of elegance.
With Additional Proteins
- Top with sliced steak for a hearty option.
- Add chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian protein boost.
Drizzled with Extra Vinaigrette
- Offer additional Lemon Honey Vinaigrette on the side for those who enjoy extra flavor.
- Experiment with different vinaigrettes, like balsamic or raspberry, for variety.
How to Perfect Easter Salad
To ensure your Easter Salad is always a hit, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate the flavors and presentation of your dish.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh strawberries and greens enhance flavor and texture, making your salad vibrant.
- Toast the almonds: Lightly toasted almonds add crunch and depth to the salad. Watch them closely to avoid burning.
- Balance flavors: Adjust the sweetness of the vinaigrette by adding more honey or lemon juice based on your preference.
- Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill slightly allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Add seasonal fruits: Incorporate other seasonal fruits like blueberries or raspberries for additional color and taste.
Best Side Dishes for Easter Salad
Pairing side dishes with your Easter Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this fresh salad wonderfully.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies adds savory depth and pairs nicely with the salad’s sweetness.
- Deviled Eggs: A classic addition that provides protein and pairs well with spring flavors.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread offers a comforting contrast to the lightness of the salad.
- Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits can refresh the palate and add natural sweetness.
- Cheese Board: An assortment of cheeses can enhance flavors, offering variety alongside your salad.
- Grilled Asparagus: Simple yet elegant, grilled asparagus adds a touch of sophistication while complementing green salads.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making an Easter Salad can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Over-tossing the salad: Tossing too vigorously can break delicate ingredients like strawberries and goat cheese. Gently fold the salad instead.
- Skipping the vinaigrette: A bland salad is often due to forgotten dressing. Always prepare and add your Lemon Honey Vinaigrette just before serving for maximum flavor.
- Using stale nuts: Toasted almonds enhance the salad’s taste. Ensure your almonds are fresh and toast them right before use for the best crunch.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality or out-of-season ingredients can affect flavor. Opt for fresh, in-season strawberries and greens for a more vibrant dish.
- Not adjusting seasonings: Every palate is different, so taste your vinaigrette and adjust as needed. Don’t hesitate to add more salt or pepper for extra zing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Easter Salad
- It is not recommended to freeze this salad as it may alter the texture of the ingredients, particularly the greens and strawberries.
Reheating Easter Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place on a baking sheet just to warm slightly without cooking further.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish; heat in short intervals to avoid wilting greens.
- Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan over low heat, stirring carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making an Easter Salad.
What makes an Easter Salad special?
An Easter Salad stands out due to its colorful mixture of fresh spring ingredients that celebrate the season’s bounty, bringing joy to any table.
Can I customize my Easter Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in other fruits like blueberries or nuts such as walnuts for different flavors and textures.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make an Easter Salad vegan, replace goat cheese with avocado or a plant-based cheese alternative, and use agave syrup instead of honey.
Is it possible to prepare this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the components ahead but store them separately. Dress just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Final Thoughts
This Easter Salad is not only beautiful but also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for various occasions. You can easily customize it with your favorite seasonal fruits or nuts. Give it a try this spring; you’ll love how refreshing and delightful it is!
Easter Salad – Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Easter Salad, also known as Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette, is the ultimate spring dish that combines vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. Perfect for picnics, brunches, or festive Easter dinners, this salad features juicy strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy toasted almonds on a bed of mixed greens. Drizzled with a zesty Lemon Honey Vinaigrette, it’s not only visually appealing but also a healthy choice that will impress your guests and elevate any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 cup slivered almonds
- 12 ounces mixed spring greens
- 16 ounces strawberries (washed, hulled & sliced)
- 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese
- 1/2 cup neutral oil (sunflower, safflower, or extra-virgin olive)
- 5 tablespoons freshly-squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread slivered almonds on a sheet pan and toast for about 5-7 minutes until lightly browned. Allow to cool.
- In a Mason jar or bowl, combine all vinaigrette ingredients. Shake or whisk until well mixed.
- In a large serving bowl, layer the mixed greens, followed by sliced strawberries, toasted almonds, and crumbled goat cheese. Just before serving, drizzle with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette and gently toss.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
