Easter Salad

Easter Salad is a delightful dish that celebrates the flavors of spring. This vibrant Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad features sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy toasted almonds atop a bed of mixed greens. Drizzled with a zesty Lemon Honey Vinaigrette, this salad is perfect for Easter gatherings, picnics, or any spring meal. Its bright colors and fresh ingredients make it not only visually appealing but also a refreshing complement to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of strawberries and goat cheese offers a burst of flavor that is both sweet and tangy.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious salad ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a side dish for lunch or dinner, or as a light main course for warm weather meals.
• Nutritious Choice: Packed with vitamins from the greens and fruit, this salad is a healthy option for any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The unique pairing of goat cheese and honey vinaigrette makes this salad stand out at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Easter Salad efficiently, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or blender

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar: Ideal for shaking up the Lemon Honey Vinaigrette without making a mess.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for toasting the slivered almonds evenly in the oven.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all your salad ingredients seamlessly.
• Whisk or blender: Helps achieve a smooth and well-mixed vinaigrette quickly.

Ingredients

Easter Salad — AKA, Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette — is a beautiful, delicious addition to any spring meal. It features sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and toasted almonds on a bed of mixed greens drizzled with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette!

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 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°F. Spread the slivered almonds on a baking sheet.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

Bake for 5 to 7 minutes or until fragrant and light brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Once done, set aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Vinaigrette

Measure all vinaigrette ingredients into a Mason jar. Tightly screw on the lid and shake vigorously until well combined. Alternatively, whisk together in a mixing bowl or blend in a mini food processor.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, layer the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, toasted slivered almonds, and crumbled goat cheese. Just before serving, dress with your desired amount of Lemon Honey Vinaigrette and toss gently until coated evenly.

Enjoy your refreshing Easter Salad!

How to Serve Easter Salad

Easter Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken for a light, refreshing meal.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables to add vibrant colors and flavors.

On a Buffet Table

• Include it as part of an Easter buffet, allowing guests to serve themselves.
• Consider adding small bowls of extra dressing for those who love more flavor.

For Meal Prep

• Pack individual servings in mason jars for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Layer ingredients to keep the greens fresh until ready to eat.

With Bread

• Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls for a satisfying combination.
• A slice of toasted baguette topped with goat cheese complements the salad beautifully.

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How to Perfect Easter Salad

To make your Easter Salad truly exceptional, consider these tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always select ripe strawberries and fresh greens. This ensures maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Toast the Nuts: Toasting slivered almonds enhances their flavor and gives the salad a delightful crunch.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the vinaigrette in advance. It allows the flavors to meld together beautifully before serving.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While goat cheese is delicious, try feta or blue cheese for different flavor profiles.
• Add Seasonal Fruits: Incorporate other spring fruits like blueberries or raspberries for added variety and color.

Best Side Dishes for Easter Salad

Easter Salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots roasted with honey for an irresistible side.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes seasoned with garlic make for a comforting addition.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa dish mixed with herbs that adds protein and texture.
4. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Roasted until caramelized, these sweet potatoes offer a delightful contrast.
5. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs provides a light and aromatic pairing.
6. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a fresh appetizer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Easter Salad, be mindful of these common mistakes to ensure a delightful dish.

• Overtoasting the almonds – Toasting almonds too long can lead to a burnt flavor. Keep an eye on them in the oven and remove them as soon as they are light brown and fragrant.
• Using unripe strawberries – Unripe strawberries can be sour and unpleasant. Choose sweet, ripe berries for the best flavor and texture in your salad.
• Skipping the vinaigrette – A salad without dressing can be bland. Always dress your Easter Salad just before serving to enhance the flavors.
• Not mixing ingredients properly – Failing to mix the salad well can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Toss all ingredients gently but thoroughly to ensure every bite is delicious.
• Ignoring personal taste – Not considering dietary preferences can limit enjoyment. Feel free to customize ingredients, like using feta cheese instead of goat cheese or adding other fruits.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Easter Salad in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep the vinaigrette separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Freezing Easter Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of greens and strawberries.
• If necessary, only freeze components like toasted almonds separately for future use.

Reheating Easter Salad

• Oven – Use this method only for components like almonds; reheat at 350°F until warm.
• Microwave – This is not recommended as it can wilt greens and make them soggy.
• Stovetop – This method is also not ideal; enjoy the salad cold for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about preparing Easter Salad.

What is Easter Salad?

Easter Salad is a vibrant dish featuring strawberries, goat cheese, and mixed greens, dressed with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette.

Can I make Easter Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare components like the vinaigrette and toast the almonds in advance but wait to assemble until serving time.

What else can I add to my Easter Salad?

Feel free to customize with nuts, seeds, or different types of cheese based on your preferences!

How do I store leftovers from my Easter Salad?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Final Thoughts

Easter Salad is a colorful and flavorful addition to your spring meals. Its combination of sweet strawberries and creamy goat cheese creates a delightful balance. Customize it by adding your favorite ingredients while keeping its essence intact. Enjoy this refreshing dish at your next gathering!