Easter Salad
Easter Salad is a delightful and vibrant dish that embodies the essence of spring. This Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it an ideal choice for various occasions, from Easter brunch to family gatherings. Its colorful presentation and fresh ingredients not only elevate your meal but also make it a nutritious option that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: The combination of strawberries, goat cheese, and mixed greens creates a refreshing taste that’s perfect for spring.
- Easy to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of total time, this salad is quick to assemble, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal.
- Versatile Dish: This Easter Salad can be served as a side or a main dish, complementing any meal beautifully.
- Health Benefits: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad supports your health while satisfying your taste buds.
- Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare the vinaigrette in advance for an even quicker assembly when you’re ready to serve.
Tools and Preparation
To create your delicious Easter Salad, having the right tools can make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Sheet Pan
- Mason Jar or Whisk
- Knife and Cutting Board
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to easily toss the salad ingredients together without spilling.
- Sheet Pan: Ideal for toasting almonds evenly in the oven, ensuring they add the perfect crunch to your salad.
- Mason Jar or Whisk: Use a Mason jar for easy vinaigrette mixing or a whisk for a smooth blend in a bowl.
Ingredients
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 Lemon Honey 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 and bake for 5 to 7 minutes until fragrant and light brown. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Set aside and allow cooling.
Step 2: Prepare the Vinaigrette
To prepare the vinaigrette, measure all ingredients into a Mason jar. Tightly screw on the lid and shake vigorously until everything is thoroughly combined. Alternatively, whisk together in a medium bowl or blend in a mini food processor or blender.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, layer mixed greens, sliced strawberries, toasted slivered almonds, and crumbled goat cheese. Just before serving, dress with your desired amount of Lemon Honey Vinaigrette. Toss until all salad ingredients are evenly coated.
Enjoy your delicious Easter Salad that’s sure to impress friends and family alike!
How to Serve Easter Salad
Easter Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful addition to any spring gathering. Here are some creative ways to serve this vibrant dish that will impress your guests.
As a Standalone Dish
- Serve the Easter Salad on its own as a light main course. It’s refreshing and filling, perfect for warm spring days.
As a Side Dish
- Pair it with grilled chicken or fish. The salad’s flavors complement savory proteins beautifully, making it an ideal side.
For Brunch Buffets
- Include it in your Easter brunch spread. Its colorful presentation adds a touch of elegance to your table.
In Individual Portions
- Present the salad in mason jars for easy serving at picnics or outdoor gatherings. Guests can grab a jar and enjoy their salad on the go.
With Additional Toppings
- Enhance the salad by adding sliced avocado or roasted beets. These toppings provide extra nutrients and flavor, making it even more satisfying.
How to Perfect Easter Salad
Creating the perfect Easter Salad is all about balance and fresh ingredients. Use these tips to elevate your salad game.
- Choose fresh greens: Use high-quality mixed greens for the best flavor and texture. Look for vibrant leaves that are crisp and free from blemishes.
- Use ripe strawberries: Select sweet, ripe strawberries to enhance the overall taste of your salad. Look for berries that are deep red with no white spots.
- Toast almonds just right: Toasting slivered almonds brings out their nutty flavor. Be sure to watch them closely in the oven to avoid burning.
- Make vinaigrette ahead of time: Prepare your Lemon Honey Vinaigrette in advance. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully before serving.
- Add protein: Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein. This can turn your salad into a hearty meal.
- Garnish thoughtfully: Finish with freshly cracked black pepper or poppy seeds for added texture and visual appeal.
Best Side Dishes for Easter Salad
Pairing side dishes with your Easter Salad can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that work well together.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: These sweet and tender carrots add a lovely color contrast and pair nicely with the salad’s flavors.
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes tossed in garlic and Parmesan bring heartiness to the table without overshadowing the salad.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with herbs is nutritious and complements the freshness of the Easter Salad beautifully.
- Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs offer a creamy texture that balances well with the crunchy elements of your salad.
- Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous flavored with fresh herbs makes for a light yet satisfying side that enhances any spring meal.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with fruity salads like this one.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato skewers provide a burst of flavor that echoes the freshness of your Easter Salad.
- Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks topped with cheese and garlic make a great accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover vinaigrette!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Creating a delicious Easter Salad can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
- Skipping the Toasting Step: Not toasting the almonds can lead to a bland flavor. Always toast them until they’re fragrant and golden for the best taste.
- Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much vinaigrette can make the salad soggy. Start with a little and add more gradually until you reach your desired flavor.
- Using Unripe Strawberries: Unripe strawberries lack sweetness and can spoil the dish. Choose ripe, sweet strawberries for maximum flavor.
- Neglecting Freshness of Ingredients: Using wilted greens or expired ingredients will affect the quality. Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
- Ignoring Personal Preferences: Not considering dietary restrictions or preferences may alienate guests. Customize your Easter Salad by adding or removing ingredients based on what everyone enjoys.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Keep dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.
Freezing Easter Salad
- It’s not recommended to freeze Easter Salad, as fresh greens and strawberries do not thaw well.
Reheating Easter Salad
- Oven: Not suitable for reheating as salads are best served cold.
- Microwave: Avoid using a microwave; salads lose their texture when heated.
- Stovetop: Reheating is not recommended; serve salad cold for the best flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Easter Salad?
An Easter Salad is typically a spring-inspired dish featuring fresh ingredients like greens, fruits, and nuts, often enjoyed during the Easter holiday.
How long does it take to prepare an Easter Salad?
The prep time for this Easter Salad is approximately 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy addition to any meal.
Can I customize my Easter Salad?
Absolutely! You can customize your Easter Salad by adding different fruits, nuts, or proteins according to your taste preferences.
What are some variations of Easter Salads?
Some popular variations include adding grilled chicken, replacing goat cheese with feta, or incorporating other seasonal fruits like blueberries or peaches.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare components in advance! Just store them separately and combine them when you’re ready to eat for maximum freshness.
Final Thoughts
Easter Salad is not just visually stunning but also offers delightful flavors that celebrate spring. With its combination of sweet strawberries and creamy goat cheese, this salad is versatile enough for any gathering. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or dressings to make it your own!
Easter Salad
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Easter Salad is a delightful, vibrant dish that captures the essence of spring. Featuring juicy strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and crisp mixed greens, this salad strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory flavors. The addition of a zesty Lemon Honey Vinaigrette elevates the taste profile, making it ideal for various occasions—from Easter brunch to family gatherings. Not only does it boast a colorful presentation, but it’s also packed with nutrients, ensuring everyone at your table will enjoy this refreshing dish.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces mixed spring greens
- 16 ounces strawberries (washed, hulled & sliced)
- 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese
- 1 cup slivered almonds
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 5 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- sea salt
- black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread slivered almonds on a sheet pan and bake for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
- In a mason jar or bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, honey, sea salt, and black pepper; shake or whisk until well blended.
- In a large mixing bowl, layer mixed greens, sliced strawberries, toasted almonds, and crumbled goat cheese. Just before serving, drizzle with vinaigrette and toss gently.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Spring
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
