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Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad

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The summertime sun always has me craving fresh fruit! Take advantage of in-season local produce by adding it to everything, like this strawberry and goat cheese salad. You do not want to miss out on this strawberry basil dressing either - it's amazing!

Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad: A Fresh and Flavorful Delight

Looking for a salad that’s both refreshing and packed with flavor? This strawberry goat cheese salad is the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and creamy — ideal for lunch, dinner, or even as a light appetizer. With juicy fresh strawberries, tangy goat cheese, crunchy greens, and a simple homemade dressing, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to prepare and beautiful to serve.

Whether you want a healthy meal or a vibrant side dish, the strawberry goat cheese salad offers a delicious balance of textures and tastes that will keep you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad

This salad shines because of its fresh ingredients and easy assembly. The natural sweetness of ripe strawberries pairs beautifully with the creamy, slightly tangy goat cheese, while mixed greens provide a crisp, refreshing base.

Topped with crunchy nuts or seeds and tossed with a light vinaigrette, the salad offers a well-rounded taste experience that feels indulgent without the guilt. It’s packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and protein, making it as nutritious as it is delicious.

Simple Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

The star ingredients are fresh strawberries and creamy goat cheese. Add mixed greens like baby spinach, arugula, or spring mix, plus toppings such as toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans for crunch. Red onion or thinly sliced shallots add a subtle bite, while cucumber brings extra freshness.

For dressing, a classic balsamic vinaigrette — made with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard — complements the salad’s sweet and tangy flavors perfectly OR make this strawberry balsamic vinaigrette to take things to the next level.

How to Make Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad

Start by washing and slicing the strawberries, then combine them with fresh greens and your choice of crunchy toppings. Crumble the goat cheese generously over the top for a creamy contrast.

Whisk together the dressing ingredients until emulsified and toss with the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.

Tips for the Best Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad

  • Use the freshest, ripest strawberries available for the best flavor.

  • Choose creamy, fresh goat cheese—not too dry or crumbly.

  • Toast nuts or seeds lightly to enhance their flavor and crunch.

  • Add fresh herbs like basil or mint for an herbal twist.

  • Serve immediately after tossing to keep greens fresh and vibrant.

A Perfect Salad for Any Season

Though especially popular in spring and summer when strawberries are in season, this salad can easily be adapted with frozen berries or dried fruit in the off-season. It’s a versatile dish that works well as a side or a main course when paired with grilled chicken or salmon.

If you’re looking for a salad that’s fresh, easy to make, and full of delightful contrasts, try this strawberry goat cheese salad. It’s a healthy, flavorful way to enjoy seasonal produce and impress your guests with minimal effort!

How To Make Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad

The Ingredients

  • Baby spinach
    Tender and mild leafy greens that provide a fresh, slightly earthy base for the salad.
    Substitutes: Arugula (for a peppery bite), mixed baby greens, kale (massage first to soften), or romaine lettuce.

  • Pearl couscous
    Also known as Israeli couscous, these small, round pasta pearls add a chewy texture and make the salad more filling.
    Substitutes: Regular couscous, quinoa, bulgur wheat, or even small pasta like orzo.

  • Cucumber
    Adds crispness and a refreshing, cool flavor that balances the sweetness of strawberries.
    Substitutes: Zucchini (raw or lightly sautéed), celery, or jicama for extra crunch.

  • Chopped strawberries
    Sweet, juicy berries that add natural sweetness and vibrant color to the salad.
    Substitutes: Blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples or pears for a different fruity twist.

  • Green onion
    Mild onion flavor that adds freshness and a little bite without overpowering.
    Substitutes: Chives, shallots, or red onion (use sparingly for milder flavor).

  • Goat cheese
    Creamy and tangy cheese that complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the freshness of the greens.
    Substitutes: Feta cheese, ricotta salata, cream cheese, or a vegan cheese alternative.

Dressing Ingredients

  • Olive oil
    A heart-healthy fat that forms the base of the dressing and adds richness.
    Substitutes: Avocado oil, grapeseed oil, or walnut oil for a nuttier flavor.

  • Apple cider vinegar
    Adds bright acidity and tang that balances the sweetness in the dressing.
    Substitutes: White wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, or balsamic vinegar (for a sweeter note).

  • Maple syrup
    Natural sweetener that enhances the fruitiness of the dressing without refined sugar.
    Substitutes: Honey, agave nectar, or simple syrup.

  • Fresh strawberries
    Blended into the dressing for a fresh, fruity flavor that ties the salad together.
    Substitutes: Raspberries, blueberries, or even a splash of orange juice.

  • Basil leaves
    Fresh herbs that add a fragrant, slightly peppery herbal note to the dressing.
    Substitutes: Mint, cilantro, or parsley.

  • Salt & pepper
    Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors.
    Substitutes: Sea salt, kosher salt, or Himalayan pink salt; freshly ground black or white pepper.

What You Need

The Steps

  • Cook couscous as per package instructions; drain & rinse under cold water. If making ahead, toss with a little olive oil once cooked so it doesn't stick together
  • Chop veggies and strawberries
  • In a small blender, add dressing ingredients and blend until smooth
  • Assemble salad starting with spinach, couscous, strawberries, onion, and goat cheese.
  • Drizzle with dressing and serve

Recipe Tips

 

Strawberry Summer Salad with Goat Cheese

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients

Salad

  • 1 pack baby spinach
  • 1 pack pearl couscous
  • ½ cucumber
  • 1 cup chopped strawberries
  • ¼ cup green onion
  • 1 pack goat cheese

Dressing

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • ½ cup fresh strawberries
  • 5 basil leaves
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp pepper

Instructions

  • Cook couscous as per package instructions; drain & rinse under cold water. If making ahead, toss with a little olive oil once cooked so it doesn't stick together
  • Chop veggies and strawberries
  • In a small blender, add dressing ingredients and blend until smooth
  • Assemble salad starting with spinach, couscous, strawberries, onion, and goat cheese.
  • Drizzle with dressing and serve

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Meet Ivanka

Recipe creator, toddler mama & wellness enthusiast. Happy&Full is a blog all about quick and easy recipes for every day living! Eating well (and feeling well) doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.

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