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Fresh Spring Salad with Strawberries & Candied Walnuts

fresh spring salad with strawberries and candied walnuts - featured image
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A vibrant and refreshing salad combining crisp mixed greens, juicy strawberries, creamy feta, and crunchy candied walnuts, perfect for a light lunch or spring gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 cups mixed greens (baby spinach, arugula, spring mix)
  • 1 cup hulled and sliced ripe strawberries
  • 1/2 cup candied walnuts (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the candied walnuts (if making homemade): Heat 1/4 cup sugar and 2 tablespoons water in a small saucepan over medium heat until it forms a syrup (about 3-4 minutes). Add 1/2 cup walnut halves, stirring quickly to coat. Spread them on parchment paper and let cool completely (about 15 minutes). If using store-bought, skip this step.
  2. Wash and dry the greens thoroughly using a salad spinner or pat gently with paper towels. Place the greens in a large bowl.
  3. Hull and slice the strawberries into halves or quarters depending on size. Add to the greens.
  4. Thinly slice the red onion and add to the bowl (optional).
  5. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese evenly over the salad.
  6. In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until emulsified.
  7. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
  8. Add candied walnuts last to keep them crunchy.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with extra walnuts or strawberry slices if desired.

Notes

Dry greens thoroughly to avoid sogginess. Add candied walnuts just before serving to keep them crunchy. Shake dressing in a sealed jar for better emulsification. Substitute goat cheese for feta for tangier flavor or omit cheese for dairy-free. Use maple syrup instead of honey for vegan dressing.

Nutrition

Keywords: spring salad, strawberry salad, candied walnuts, light lunch, fresh salad, healthy salad, easy salad recipe

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/fresh-spring-salad-with-strawberries-and-candied-walnuts-easy-recipe-for-perfect-light-lunch/