As I tossed the vibrant greens with the juicy red strawberries, I felt a wave of excitement wash over me. The Classic Strawberry Arugula Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette is a delightful concoction that effortlessly merges sweet and savory flavors. Each bite offers a stunning contrast of the peppery arugula, creamy feta, and crunchy almonds, creating a dish that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Prep time is a mere breeze—perfect for those busy weeknights or when unexpected guests arrive. This salad not only makes a refreshing side but also stands out as a light and satisfying main when paired with your favorite protein. Ready to whip up something quick and delicious? Let’s dive into this simple yet sophisticated recipe that brings a taste of summer to your table!

Why is this salad a crowd-pleaser?

Vibrant, Fresh Ingredients: This salad showcases the beautiful contrast of bright strawberries against the green arugula, making it visually appealing for any gathering.

Quick & Easy: Each component comes together in just minutes, allowing you to whip it up effortlessly even on busy days or when entertaining guests.

Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The sweet strawberries marry beautifully with peppery arugula and tangy feta, offering a delightful taste sensation that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings.

Versatile Delight: Enjoy it as a standalone meal or side—it pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or salmon, just like my Balsamic Fig Chicken.

Healthy & Wholesome: Light yet satisfying, with approximately 550 calories per serving, this salad fits perfectly into a health-conscious lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.

Impressive Presentation: Serve with some toasted almonds for that extra crunch and sophistication—your guests will be asking for the recipe!

Strawberry Arugula Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Arugula – Provides a peppery base; baby arugula offers a milder taste for gentler palates.
• Strawberries – Adds sweetness and vibrant color; hull and slice just before serving to keep it fresh.
• Feta Cheese – Offers creaminess and tang; crumble into small bites for better distribution throughout the salad.
• Green Onions – Introduces a subtle sharpness; separate the white parts for mixing and the green tops for a garnish.
• Sliced Almonds – Brings amazing crunch; toast slightly in a dry pan for enhanced flavor.

For the Vinaigrette
• Maple Syrup – Sweetens the vinaigrette; can be substituted with honey for a similar taste.
• Dijon Mustard – Acts as an emulsifier in the dressing; ensures a smooth texture for better blending.
• Garlic Powder – Adds depth of flavor to the vinaigrette without overpowering other ingredients.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall taste of both salad and dressing.
• Balsamic Vinegar – Provides a tangy sweetness; using a quality brand like Bertolli boosts flavor.
• Olive Oil – Forms the base of the vinaigrette; opting for extra virgin oil elevates the freshness of flavors in your Strawberry Arugula Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Arugula Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Begin by hulling and slicing about one cup of fresh strawberries. Place the sliced strawberries on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture while you prepare the other ingredients. This step is essential to keep your Strawberry Arugula Salad from becoming watery and ensures the sweetness of the strawberries shines through.

Step 2: Slice the Green Onions
Next, take two green onions, cutting off the root ends and slicing them thinly. Separate the white and light green parts for mixing into the salad. Reserve the dark green tops for garnish. Their sharpness enhances the overall flavor of your salad, adding a fresh crunch that pairs beautifully with the peppery arugula.

Step 3: Crumble the Feta Cheese
Grab a block of feta cheese and crumble it into small pieces using your fingers or a fork. This allows for even distribution of the creamy feta throughout the salad. Aim for bite-sized chunks so that each serving of your Strawberry Arugula Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette has a delightful burst of flavor with every bite.

Step 4: Make the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together one tablespoon of Dijon mustard, one tablespoon of maple syrup, a pinch of garlic powder, and a generous sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Gradually drizzle in three tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing. Finally, incorporate two tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, blending it all together until smooth and well-combined.

Step 5: Toss the Arugula
In a large mixing bowl, place four cups of fresh arugula. Drizzle about half of your prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the arugula and gently toss using your hands or salad tongs. Ensure the arugula is well-coated in dressing without wilting. This piece sets the stage for the bright and vibrant Strawberry Arugula Salad.

Step 6: Combine All Ingredients
Add the sliced strawberries, crumbled feta, and most of the sliced green onions to the bowl of dressed arugula. Sprinkle in a quarter cup of toasted sliced almonds for added crunch. Toss everything together gently until all ingredients are evenly mixed, and the flavors come together in a beautiful harmony.

Step 7: Serve with a Garnish
Immediately serve your fresh Strawberry Arugula Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette on individual plates. Garnish with the reserved green onion tops for a pop of color and extra flavor. Enjoy this refreshing and light salad right away, as it’s best enjoyed fresh for that perfect combination of flavors and textures.

Strawberry Arugula Salad Variations

Inviting a little creativity into your refreshing salad can elevate it to a whole new appetizing level.

Nutty Twist: Substitute sliced almonds with toasted walnuts or pecans for a delightful nutty flavor and extra crunch.
Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to the salad for a satisfying protein boost that makes it a standalone meal.
Cheesy Options: Experiment with goat cheese or blue cheese instead of feta for a different tangy kick and creaminess. Each cheese brings its unique charm!
Veggie Boost: Incorporate diced cucumber or bell peppers for additional color, crunch, and freshness—perfect for summer!
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or mint to complement the sweetness of the strawberries for an aromatic touch.
Spicy Kick: Drizzle in a dash of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños if you’re feeling adventurous and enjoy a bit of heat.
Honey Vinaigrette: Swap maple syrup for honey in the vinaigrette for a floral sweetness that balances well with the salad’s flavors.
Savory Additions: Include crispy bacon or prosciutto for a savory twist that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries.

If you’re seeking more refreshing sides, why not try this delicious Dumpling Salad Zesty or perhaps an indulgent Baked Brie in Puff Pastry? Cooking is all about finding joy in every bite!

What to Serve with Classic Strawberry Arugula Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this vibrant salad with complementary dishes that enhance its bright flavors.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, marinated chicken adds a savory contrast that pairs wonderfully with the salad’s peppery notes and sweet strawberries.
Baked Salmon: The rich, buttery texture of salmon beautifully complements the freshness of the salad, making it a match made in flavor heaven.
Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty grain dish contributes a wholesome, chewy texture, balancing the crispness of the salad while adding a hearty element.
Crusty Bread: A warm, rustic loaf is perfect for soaking up any leftover balsamic vinaigrette, making every bite of the meal satisfying.
White Wine Spritzer: A refreshing drink option that combines bubbly white wine with club soda—light and invigorating, just like the salad itself!
Lemon Sorbet: End on a sweet note with this light, frozen dessert that cleanses the palate and echoes the fresh citrus elements in the salad.

Pairing these dishes will turn your Classic Strawberry Arugula Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette into a full-fledged feast that delights the senses!

Make Ahead Options

This Classic Strawberry Arugula Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette is ideal for meal prep, saving you time on busy days! You can prepare the vinaigrette up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The arugula and toasted almonds can also be prepped ahead; just keep them in separate containers to maintain freshness. Slice the strawberries no more than 24 hours before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss the arugula with the vinaigrette, add the strawberries, feta, and almonds, and enjoy a fresh, vibrant salad that tastes just as delightful as when made fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Arugula Salad

Fridge: Store leftover Strawberry Arugula Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the vinaigrette separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezer: This salad does not freeze well due to the water content in strawberries and arugula. Enjoy it fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating: If you have leftover vinaigrette, you can store it in the fridge for up to a week. Simply give it a good shake before using, as it may separate.

Assembly Tips: For meal prep, store arugula, strawberries, and vinaigrette in separate containers, combining them just before serving for optimal freshness.

Tips for the Best Strawberry Arugula Salad

Dress Just Before Serving: Avoid wilting arugula by adding the vinaigrette only right before you plan to serve the salad.

Dry Thoroughly: Ensure washed arugula is completely dry; moisture can prevent the dressing from adhering properly to your Strawberry Arugula Salad.

Slice Strawberries Last: Hull and slice strawberries just before mixing; this helps maintain their freshness and prevents excess moisture from affecting the salad.

Toast Almonds for Flavor: Lightly toasting sliced almonds in a dry pan enhances their nutty flavor, adding a delightful crunch to the salad.

Crumble Feta Properly: Break feta into small, even pieces for better distribution throughout the salad; this ensures every bite is packed with that creamy goodness.

Strawberry Arugula Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe strawberries for the salad?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm to the touch, and free of dark spots or bruises. An ideal strawberry should have a sweet aroma as well. If you’re purchasing them at the store, gently press the berries to see if they’re firm. The more fragrant, the better—I’m always drawn to the ones that smell like summer!

How should I store leftover Strawberry Arugula Salad?
For optimal freshness, store your leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s crucial to keep the vinaigrette separate until you’re ready to serve. This will help prevent the arugula from wilting and keep the strawberries looking fresh and vibrant.

Can I freeze the Strawberry Arugula Salad?
Not really! This salad doesn’t freeze well due to the high water content in both strawberries and arugula, which can result in mushy textures after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh since all those bright flavors and textures come together beautifully when prepared and served right away.

What can I do if my vinaigrette separates?
Very common! If you notice your vinaigrette separating, simply give it a good whisk or shake in a jar until it re-emulsifies. If you’re preparing it in advance and plan to store it in the fridge, remember that the olive oil can solidify when cold. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before whisking it back together.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Of course! This Strawberry Arugula Salad is vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for many diets. However, always check the feta cheese if you’re serving someone with a dairy allergy; a dairy-free alternative could work well, such as almond or coconut-based cheese. If you’re catering to nut allergies, feel free to skip the almonds or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds.

Can I prepare the vinaigrette ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the vinaigrette in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember to shake or whisk it before using, as it may separate over time. Prepping in advance is a great time-saver, especially for those busy weeknights!