Strawberry Basil Salad: A Fresh, Sweet, and Herbaceous Delight
Vibrant, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, Strawberry Basil Salad is the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and herbaceous notes in every bite. Juicy, ripe strawberries pair beautifully with aromatic fresh basil, crisp greens, and a light dressing, creating a salad that feels both elegant and effortlessly simple. Ideal for warm weather, brunches, or as a colorful side dish, this salad captures the essence of summer in a bowl.
Strawberry Basil Salad is not just about taste—it’s also about texture. The softness of the strawberries contrasts with crunchy nuts, leafy greens, and creamy cheese, if included. The natural sweetness of the fruit blends seamlessly with the subtle peppery aroma of fresh basil and the bright acidity of a simple vinaigrette. Easy to make and highly customizable, this salad is perfect for entertaining, meal prep, or a quick, nutritious lunch. Its beautiful presentation also makes it a show-stopper at gatherings, offering both flavor and aesthetic appeal.
Ingredients Needed
Approximate calorie counts included.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh strawberries, sliced | 2 cups | 100 |
| Fresh basil leaves, chopped | ½ cup | 5 |
| Mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix) | 4 cups | 25 |
| Feta or goat cheese, crumbled | ½ cup | 150 |
| Almonds or walnuts, toasted | ¼ cup | 130 |
| Balsamic vinegar | 2 tbsp | 28 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 240 |
| Honey | 1 tbsp | 60 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | To taste | 0 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the greens
Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly. Place them in a large salad bowl. - Prepare the strawberries and basil
Wash and slice strawberries. Chop fresh basil leaves and add to the salad bowl with the greens. - Add cheese and nuts
Crumble feta or goat cheese over the salad. Sprinkle toasted almonds or walnuts for added crunch. - Make the dressing
Whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until well combined. - Assemble the salad
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss to ensure everything is evenly coated. - Serve immediately
Garnish with a few extra whole strawberries and basil leaves for a visually appealing presentation.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a complete meal.
- Nut alternatives: Use pecans, cashews, or pumpkin seeds if desired.
- Cheese alternatives: Skip cheese for a vegan version or try a dairy-free cheese.
- Fruit variations: Mix in blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches for extra flavor.
- Dressing tweaks: Substitute honey with maple syrup or add a dash of orange juice for extra brightness.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250–300 |
| Carbohydrates | 20–25 g |
| Protein | 4–6 g |
| Fat | 18–20 g |
| Fiber | 3–4 g |
This salad is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, healthy fats, and fiber, making it both nutritious and energizing.
Serving Suggestions
Strawberry Basil Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp for a balanced meal. It also works as a side for summer barbecues, brunches, or potlucks. Serve chilled for a refreshing experience, and consider adding a slice of crusty bread to round out the meal.
Strawberry Basil Salad: A Fresh, Sweet, and Herbaceous Delight
4
servings10
minutes10
minutes250-300
kcalIngredients
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
½ cup feta or goat cheese, crumbled
¼ cup almonds or walnuts, toasted
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp honey
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Wash and dry the mixed greens and place them in a large salad bowl.
- Slice strawberries and chop fresh basil. Add to the salad bowl.
- Crumble cheese over the salad and sprinkle with toasted nuts.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour dressing over salad ingredients and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Garnish with extra strawberries and basil leaves if desired.
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Add protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a full meal.
Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan version.
FAQs
1. Can Strawberry Basil Salad be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the greens, slice the strawberries, and toast the nuts ahead of time. Store ingredients separately and add dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
2. How long does Strawberry Basil Salad last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container without dressing, the salad stays fresh for 1–2 days. Dressing and cheese can make the greens wilt, so it’s best to toss them together just before eating.
3. Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative like vegan feta. Honey can also be replaced with maple syrup for a fully vegan version.
4. What nuts work best in Strawberry Basil Salad?
Almonds, walnuts, or pecans are perfect for adding crunch. You can also use pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds if you prefer.
5. Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu make this salad a filling and balanced meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Conclusion
Strawberry Basil Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and versatile dish that combines sweet strawberries, aromatic basil, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese in perfect harmony. Quick to prepare, visually stunning, and packed with nutrients, it’s ideal for warm weather, entertaining, or a light and healthy lunch. With endless customization options, this salad proves that healthy eating can be both delicious and beautiful.
