Strawberry Feta Cheese Salad

Name: Strawberry Feta Cheese Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh spinach or mixed greens; 2 cups ripe strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/2 cup toasted pecans (optional); 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light & Wholesome

I love making Strawberry Feta Cheese Salad as it combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the creamy tang of feta. The contrasting flavors and colors create a visually appealing dish that's perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare and can be served as a light lunch or as a refreshing side dish. Each bite bursts with flavor and leaves you feeling satisfied without being heavy. This salad is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal fruits during warmer months.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-27T10:10:27.433Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of a Strawberry Feta Cheese Salad, I was a little skeptical. However, the combination of sweet strawberries and salty feta intrigued me, so I decided to give it a try. The first bite was a revelation! The flavors danced together perfectly, and I felt inspired to add my own twist.

To enhance the flavors, I decided to toss in some toasted pecans for added crunch and a homemade balsamic vinaigrette. These small changes elevated the dish and made it even more special. I consistently serve this salad at summer gatherings, and it never fails to impress my guests.

Why You'll Love This Salad
Refreshing sweetness from ripe strawberries
Creamy feta crumbles add richness
Easy to make and perfect for summer gatherings

Choosing Your Ingredients

When it comes to making a Strawberry Feta Cheese Salad, the quality of your ingredients significantly impacts the final result. Opt for ripe, sweet strawberries; they should be fragrant and have a deep red color. Avoid any that are overly mushy or have white spots, as these can affect the overall sweetness. If you can't find fresh strawberries, consider using frozen ones that have been thawed, but note that they might release more moisture.

The feta cheese you choose should be creamy and crumbly, ideally made from sheep's milk for a richer flavor. If you're looking for a lighter option, goat cheese can work as a tangy substitute that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the strawberries. Another alternative is ricotta, which will provide a creamier texture and a milder taste, making the salad less salty.

Assembly Tips for Optimal Freshness

To ensure your salad remains fresh and visually appealing, it's best to layer your ingredients carefully. Start with the greens as a base; they should be dry to avoid wilting. For the best texture, add thicker ingredients like feta and nuts on top of the greens, then gently nestle the strawberries and onions in. This layering technique not only enhances presentation but also protects delicate ingredients from bruising.

When making the dressing, whisk it just until emulsified; you want a well-blended result without air bubbles that can cause separation. Drizzling the dressing over the salad just before serving ensures the greens retain their crispness and the strawberries remain vibrant. If you're preparing this salad in advance, consider storing the dressing separately to maintain that fresh crunch until you serve.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Strawberry Feta Cheese Salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 cups fresh spinach or mixed greens
2 cups ripe strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup toasted pecans (optional)
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prepare everything fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious salad:

Prepare the Greens

In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh spinach or mixed greens. Make sure they are washed and dried properly to avoid a watery salad.

Add Strawberries and Feta

Layer in the sliced strawberries and crumbled feta cheese over the greens. Add the toasted pecans and red onion if using.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp. Toss gently to combine, being careful not to crush the strawberries.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the salad immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!

For best results, serve this salad fresh.

Pro Tips

For a gluten-free option, ensure your balsamic vinegar is gluten-free. You can also substitute the feta with goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

If you have leftovers, this salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, note that the greens may begin to wilt and the strawberries could release juices, altering the texture. To store, keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat. This approach preserves both the salad's crispness and the brightness of the strawberries.

For make-ahead options, you can prepare all the components except the dressing a day earlier. Wash and dry the greens, slice the strawberries, and crumble the feta, then store them in separate containers. When you're ready to serve, simply combine everything and drizzle with dressing for a quick and easy meal.

Variations and Serving Ideas

Feel free to customize this salad to match your palate! You can add diced avocado for creaminess or swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different crunch. If you're looking for a burst of flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like basil or mint, which complement the strawberries beautifully.

This salad pairs exceptionally well with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal, making it versatile for lunch or dinner. To make it a more filling option for a picnic or potluck, serve it alongside crusty bread or a light pasta dish. Additionally, drizzling a bit of honey or a sprinkle of poppy seeds over the top can elevate the flavors and presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately.

→ What other fruits can I add?

You can experiment with other fruits like blueberries, peaches, or even apples for a different taste.

→ Is there a substitute for feta cheese?

Yes! You can use goat cheese or even a dairy-free cheese alternative for a similar creamy texture.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

To make the salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese and use a plant-based dressing.