This Easter salad is a colorful and refreshing addition to your spring table. Bursting with sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy toasted almonds, it offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Perfect for celebrations, this recipe is not only easy to whip up but also invites everyone to savor the season’s bounty. Serve it alongside your Easter feast or as a vibrant main dish that’s sure to impress!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Easter Salad
This Easter salad is a celebration of spring! The combination of fresh strawberries and nutty goat cheese creates a perfect balance, while the homemade Lemon Honey Vinaigrette adds a zesty touch. Each bite is a refreshing delight that’s ideal for any holiday gathering or a simple family dinner.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Mixing Bowls
Use a large mixing bowl to combine your salad ingredients comfortably.
Salad Tongs
Salad tongs help you toss and serve the salad without bruising the delicate greens.
Mason Jar or Bowl for Vinaigrette
A Mason jar or a bowl is perfect for mixing the vinaigrette; just shake or whisk it well!
Ingredients for Easter Salad
Salad Base Ingredients
- 12 ounces mixed spring greens
- 16 ounces strawberries (sliced)
- 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese
- 1 cup slivered almonds (toasted)
Lemon Honey Vinaigrette Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sunflower, safflower, or extra-virgin olive oil
- 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
Toasting the Almonds
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the slivered almonds on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and fragrant.
Preparing the Vinaigrette
In a Mason jar or bowl, combine the vinaigrette ingredients: olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk until well blended.
Assembling the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, layer the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, toasted almonds, and crumbled goat cheese. Just before serving, drizzle the salad with the Lemon Honey Vinaigrette and gently toss to combine.
Serving Suggestions for Easter Salad
This salad makes a lovely side dish for any Easter meal. Pair it with roasted lamb or a honey-glazed ham for a truly festive experience. Alternatively, it can stand alone as a light main dish, especially on warm spring days.
Tips for Perfecting Your Easter Salad
Use fresh, seasonal ingredients for the best flavor. Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and adds crunch; monitor them closely to avoid burning. Adjust the sweetness of the vinaigrette by varying the amount of honey according to your preference. Chill the salad slightly before serving to enhance its refreshing qualities.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment! This Easter salad can also include proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp. Other fruits like blueberries or mandarin oranges can add a burst of flavor and vibrant colors.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid over-toasting the almonds; they should be golden and fragrant, not burnt. Additionally, dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
FAQs
What makes a salad perfect for Easter dinner?
A perfect Easter salad combines fresh seasonal ingredients, vibrant colors, and flavors that complement traditional Easter dishes.
Can I substitute goat cheese in an Easter salad?
Yes, you can substitute goat cheese with feta or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
What dressing pairs best with strawberry salads?
A light vinaigrette, especially one with citrus like lemon or orange, pairs perfectly with strawberry salads.
Can this salad be made the night before?
While the salad can be prepped a day ahead, it’s best to dress it just before serving to keep the greens fresh.
Is this Easter salad served as a side or main dish?
This Easter salad can serve as either a light main dish or a refreshing side dish.
More Delicious Recipes to Try Next
- Peach Pretzel Salad
- Banana Pudding Fluff Salad
- Grinder Salad
- Chopped Peach Caprese Salad
- Italian Grinder Salad
Conclusion
This Easter salad is a delightful addition to your spring celebrations, showcasing fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors that everyone will love. For more delightful recipes, check out Ellysrecipes onpinterest for inspiring ideas and seasonal favorites!
Easter Salad: A Cozy and Refreshing Delight
Equipment
- Oven
- baking sheet
- Mason jar or bowl
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 12 ounces mixed spring greens
- 16 ounces strawberries (sliced)
- 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese
- 1 cup slivered almonds (toasted)
For the Vinaigrette
- 1/2 cup sunflower, safflower, or extra-virgin olive oil
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and toast the slivered almonds on a baking sheet for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- In a Mason jar or bowl, combine the vinaigrette ingredients and shake or whisk until well blended.
- Layer the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, toasted almonds, and crumbled goat cheese in a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle the salad with the vinaigrette just before serving and gently toss to combine.