Strawberries are a vibrant taste of summer, but their versatility shines in refreshing salads that can be enjoyed throughout the season.
This collection of creative salad ideas goes beyond the basic fruit salad, showcasing how strawberries can elevate both sweet and savory dishes.
We’ll explore a variety of greens, cheeses, nuts, and dressings to create salads that are light, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.
Recipes
1. Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing
This classic combination is a crowd-pleaser for a reason. Fresh spinach leaves get a sweet and tangy boost from juicy strawberries, crumbled feta cheese adds a salty bite, and the creamy poppy seed dressing ties everything together.
Recipe
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
10 mins | 0 mins | Salad | American | Bowl, whisk | 8 |
Ingredients:
- 6 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, red onion, feta cheese, and almonds.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, poppy seeds, and honey until well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately.
Side: Grilled chicken or shrimp
Drink: A glass of chilled white wine or iced tea
2. Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette
Looking for a lighter option? This salad features a bed of mixed greens tossed with sliced strawberries, toasted almonds for crunch, and a bubbly champagne vinaigrette. It’s perfect for a summer lunch or appetizer.
Recipe
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
15 mins | 0 mins | Salad | American | Bowl, whisk | 9 |
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup champagne vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, strawberries, walnuts, sunflower seeds, and goat cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together champagne vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately.
Side: Crusty bread or a baguette
Drink: A glass of champagne or sparkling water
3. Arugula, Goat Cheese, and Balsamic Glazed Strawberry Salad
This salad takes things up a notch with peppery arugula, creamy goat cheese, and balsamic glazed strawberries. The sweet and savory flavors are a delightful contrast, and the balsamic glaze adds a touch of elegance.
Recipe
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
15 mins | 5 mins | Salad | American | Bowl, whisk, saucepan | 8 |
Ingredients:
- 4 cups arugula
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Simmer over low heat until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine arugula, strawberries, goat cheese, and toasted pecans.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Season with salt and pepper, toss gently, and serve.
Side: Grilled baguette slices
Drink: Rosé wine or sparkling water with lemon
4. Strawberry Caprese Salad
This twist on the classic Caprese salad incorporates fresh strawberries alongside sliced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. Drizzle with a simple balsamic glaze for a light and refreshing meal.
Recipe
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
10 mins | 0 mins | Salad | Italian | Bowl, whisk | 7 |
Ingredients:
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Simmer over low heat until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine strawberries, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic reduction.
- Season with salt and pepper, toss gently, and serve.
Side: Fresh Italian bread
Drink: A glass of Prosecco or iced green tea
5. Quinoa Salad with Strawberries, Avocado, and Lime Vinaigrette
This protein-packed salad is a great main course option. Quinoa is tossed with chopped strawberries, creamy avocado, black beans, and a zesty lime vinaigrette. It’s a satisfying and healthy way to enjoy summer berries.
Recipe
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
15 mins | 20 mins | Salad | American | Pot, bowl, whisk | 9 |
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a pot, bring water to a boil, add quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until water is absorbed. Let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, strawberries, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad, toss to combine, and serve.
Side: Grilled chicken or fish
Drink: Lime-infused sparkling water or a light white wine
6. Grilled Chicken and Strawberry Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
This salad is perfect for those who want a more substantial meal. Grilled chicken is served on a bed of greens with sliced strawberries, crumbled blue cheese, and a sweet and tangy honey mustard dressing.
Recipe
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
15 mins | 15 mins | Salad | American | Grill, bowl, whisk | 10 |
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat until cooked through, about 7-8 minutes per side. Let cool and slice.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, strawberries, red onion, feta cheese, and walnuts.
- In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Add sliced chicken to the salad, drizzle with honey mustard dressing, and toss to coat.
- Serve immediately.
Side: Whole grain bread
Drink: A crisp white wine or lemonade
7. Strawberry, Fennel, and Walnut Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This salad offers a unique flavor profile. Fennel bulb adds a touch of licorice, while walnuts provide a satisfying crunch. Fresh strawberries and a light lemon vinaigrette tie everything together for a refreshing and unexpected salad.
Recipe
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
15 mins | 0 mins | Salad | American | Bowl, whisk | 8 |
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, strawberries, fennel, walnuts, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad, toss gently to combine, and serve immediately.
Side: Grilled fish or chicken
Drink: Lemon-infused water or a light sparkling wine
8. Strawberry Shortcake Salad in a Jar
This fun and creative dessert salad layers crumbled pound cake, fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s a delightful twist on the classic strawberry shortcake.
Recipe
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
20 mins | 0 mins | Dessert | American | Jars, whisk | 7 |
Ingredients:
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup cake pieces (angel food or pound cake)
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together whipped cream, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In jars, layer strawberries, cake pieces, and whipped cream mixture.
- Repeat the layers until jars are filled.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve chilled.
Side: Fresh fruit or cookies
Drink: Iced coffee or a glass of milk
9. Berry-Beet Salad with Goat Cheese
This salad is a beautiful explosion of color and flavor. Roasted beets are tossed with mixed greens, fresh berries (including strawberries!), crumbled goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette. It’s a healthy and visually stunning side dish.
Recipe
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
15 mins | 30 mins | Salad | American | Pot, bowl, whisk | 8 |
Ingredients:
- 2 medium beets, roasted and sliced
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes until tender. Let cool, peel, and slice.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted beets, berries, goat cheese, and pecans.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle dressing over the salad, toss gently, and serve.
Side: Whole grain bread or crackers
Drink: A glass of red wine or berry-infused water
10. Strawberry and Avocado Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
This salad is a great alternative to a heavy pasta dish. Penne pasta is tossed with chopped strawberries, creamy avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a light balsamic vinaigrette. It’s perfect for a potluck or summer picnic.
Recipe
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
15 mins | 10 mins | Salad | American | Pot, bowl, whisk | 9 |
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, strawberries, avocado, red onion, and basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad, toss to combine, and serve.
Side: Grilled chicken or fish
Drink: Lemonade or a light white wine
11. Strawberry and Balsamic Chicken Skewers with Arugula Salad
These skewers feature marinated chicken and fresh strawberries grilled to perfection. They are served on a bed of arugula with a balsamic glaze drizzle for a delicious and visually appealing main course.
Recipe
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
20 mins | 15 mins | Main | American | Grill, bowl, whisk | 10 |
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into chunks
- 1 cup strawberries, pureed
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups arugula
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine pureed strawberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Add chicken chunks and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Thread chicken onto skewers and grill over medium heat until cooked through, about 7-8 minutes per side.
- In a large bowl, combine arugula, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice. Toss to coat.
- Serve grilled chicken skewers over the arugula salad.
Side: Grilled vegetables or couscous
Drink: A glass of rosé or iced tea
12. Strawberry, Kale, and Quinoa Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
This salad is packed with nutrients! Kale and quinoa provide a base of fiber and protein, while strawberries add a touch of sweetness. A creamy lemon tahini dressing ties everything together for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Recipe
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
15 mins | 15 mins | Salad | American | Pot, bowl, whisk | 10 |
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 4 cups kale, chopped
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a pot, bring water to a boil, add quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, kale, strawberries, sunflower seeds, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad, toss to combine, and serve.
Side: Grilled chicken or tofu
Drink: Lemon-infused water or a light white wine
13. Strawberry and Coconut Rice Salad
This tropical-inspired salad features fluffy coconut rice tossed with fresh strawberries, chopped pineapple, toasted cashews, and a lime vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing and flavorful side dish for grilled fish or chicken.
Recipe
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
15 mins | 20 mins | Salad | Fusion | Pot, bowl | 8 |
Ingredients:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- In a pot, combine jasmine rice, coconut milk, and water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is cooked. Let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled rice, strawberries, shredded coconut, and cilantro.
- Drizzle with lime juice, add salt to taste, and toss to combine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Side: Grilled shrimp or chicken
Drink: Coconut water or a tropical fruit juice
14. Strawberry and Balsamic Bruschetta
Take advantage of peak strawberry season with this twist on bruschetta. Toasted bread is topped with a creamy goat cheese spread, fresh strawberries, balsamic glaze, and a sprinkle of fresh basil. It’s a delightful and easy appetizer.
Recipe
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
10 mins | 5 mins | Appetizer | Italian | Bowl, whisk, saucepan | 7 |
Ingredients:
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 1 cup strawberries, diced
- 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Simmer over low heat until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Let cool.
- Toast baguette slices in the oven or on a grill until lightly browned.
- In a bowl, combine diced strawberries, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Spread goat cheese on each toasted baguette slice, top with strawberry mixture, and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
- Serve immediately.
Side: Mixed greens salad
Drink: A glass of Prosecco or sparkling water with a splash of lime
15. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries with Balsamic Glaze
For a decadent dessert option, try these chocolate dipped strawberries with a balsamic glaze drizzle. The combination of sweet chocolate, tart balsamic glaze, and juicy strawberries is simply irresistible.
Recipe
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
15 mins | 5 mins | Dessert | American | Bowl, whisk, saucepan | 5 |
Ingredients:
- 1 pound strawberries
- 8 ounces dark chocolate, melted
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Sea salt (optional)
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Simmer over low heat until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Let cool.
- Dip each strawberry in melted dark chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place on parchment paper to set.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the chocolate-dipped strawberries.
- Sprinkle with sea salt if desired. Let chocolate set before serving.
Side: Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Drink: A glass of dessert wine or coffee