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Spring Salad with Strawberries, Goat Cheese, and Lemon Honey Vinaigrette Recipe

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3.8 from 8 reviews

This refreshing Spring Salad combines crisp mixed greens, sweet strawberries, and tangy goat cheese, all brought together with a bright and zesty lemon honey vinaigrette. Toasted slivered almonds add a delightful crunch, making this salad a perfect light side dish for warm-weather meals.

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 1 cup slivered almonds
  • 12 ounces mixed spring greens
  • 16 ounces strawberries, washed, hulled, and sliced
  • 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese

For the Lemon Honey 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)

Instructions

  1. Toast the almonds: Adjust the oven rack to the center position and preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread the slivered almonds evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 5 to 7 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned, watching carefully to prevent burning. Remove from oven and let cool.
  2. Prepare the vinaigrette: Combine the oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, honey, sea salt, black pepper, and optional poppy seeds into a Mason jar. Screw the lid on tightly and shake vigorously until well combined. Alternatively, whisk together in a bowl or blend in a mini food processor until emulsified.
  3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, layer the mixed spring greens, sliced strawberries, toasted almonds, and crumbled goat cheese. Just before serving, drizzle with your desired amount of the lemon honey vinaigrette and toss gently until evenly coated.

Notes

  • Watch the almonds closely while toasting to prevent burning as they can brown quickly.
  • You can substitute the goat cheese with feta or blue cheese if preferred.
  • The vinaigrette can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; shake well before using.
  • Add poppy seeds to the vinaigrette for extra texture and visual appeal, but this is optional.
  • For a nut-free option, omit almonds and consider using toasted pumpkin seeds instead.

Find it online: https://cozyplatter.com/spring-salad-with-strawberries-goat-cheese-and-lemon-honey-vinaigrette-recipe/