Easter Salad

Easter Salad is a vibrant and delicious dish perfect for any spring gathering. This Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette combines fresh strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and toasted almonds on a bed of mixed greens. Its colorful presentation and delightful flavors make it a standout addition to your Easter table or any festive occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Greens and Fruits
• Cheese and Nuts
• Vinaigrette Components
• How to Make Easter Salad
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Toast the Almonds
• Step 3: Prepare the Vinaigrette
• Step 4: Assemble the Salad
• How to Serve Easter Salad
• As a Starter
• With Grilled Chicken
• Alongside Quiche
• As Part of a Buffet
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs
• How to Perfect Easter Salad
• Best Side Dishes for Easter Salad
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Easter Salad
• Reheating Easter Salad
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I customize my Easter Salad?
• What dressing pairs well with Easter Salad?
• How do I make my salad more filling?
• Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and Fresh Flavors: The combination of strawberries and lemon honey vinaigrette brings a refreshing taste to your meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this salad comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy hosts.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side dish or main course; it pairs well with various proteins.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from the greens and strawberries, it’s a healthy choice for spring.
• Elegant Presentation: The colorful ingredients create an eye-catching salad that will impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Easter Salad, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar or whisk
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar: Ideal for shaking up the vinaigrette, ensuring all ingredients blend perfectly.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for toasting almonds evenly without burning them.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all salad ingredients easily without spilling.

Ingredients

Easter Salad is composed of fresh, tasty components that enhance its flavor profile.

Greens and Fruits

• 12 ounces mixed spring greens
• 16 ounces strawberries (washed, hulled, & sliced)

Cheese and Nuts

• 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese
• 1 cup slivered almonds

Vinaigrette Components

• 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°.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

Spread the slivered almonds on a baking sheet. Bake for 5 to 7 minutes until they are fragrant and light brown. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a Mason jar, measure all vinaigrette ingredients. Tightly screw on the lid and shake vigorously until everything is thoroughly combined. Alternatively, whisk in a medium bowl or blend in a mini food processor or blender.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

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

Enjoy your delightful Easter Salad!

How to Serve Easter Salad

Easter Salad is a delightful dish that can complement a variety of meals. Its vibrant colors and flavors make it perfect for spring gatherings and festive occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your Easter Salad experience.

As a Starter

• Serve small portions of Easter Salad as a refreshing appetizer. This will whet the appetite before the main course.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken for a satisfying meal. The flavors of the chicken blend beautifully with the sweet strawberries and creamy goat cheese.

Alongside Quiche

• Easter Salad goes wonderfully with a slice of quiche. The lightness of the salad balances out the richness of the quiche, making for a perfect brunch option.

As Part of a Buffet

• Include this salad in an Easter buffet spread. Its colorful presentation will attract guests and provide a healthy option among heavier dishes.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top off your Easter Salad with fresh herbs like basil or mint. This adds an extra layer of flavor while enhancing its visual appeal.

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How to Perfect Easter Salad

To achieve the ultimate Easter Salad, consider these tips that will take your dish to the next level.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for seasonal strawberries and fresh greens for the best flavor and texture.
• Toast Almonds Carefully: Ensure you toast almonds just until golden. This enhances their flavor without making them bitter.
• Make Ahead Dressing: Prepare the Lemon Honey Vinaigrette in advance. This allows flavors to meld together, creating a more robust dressing.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like feta or blue cheese if goat cheese isn’t your favorite. Each cheese brings its own unique taste.
• Add Seasonal Fruits: Incorporate other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for added color and variety.
• Serve Chilled: Chill the salad ingredients before serving for a refreshing taste, especially on warmer days.

Best Side Dishes for Easter Salad

Easter Salad pairs well with several side dishes that complement its fresh flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, asparagus, and bell peppers roasted until tender add a savory element that balances the sweetness of the salad.
2. Deviled Eggs: A classic Easter dish, deviled eggs offer creaminess that pairs nicely with the tangy vinaigrette in your salad.
3. Potato Salad: A light potato salad made with herbs can provide heartiness without overwhelming your palate.
4. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp or vegetables bring crunch and freshness that align perfectly with Easter Salad.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can enhance your dining experience by providing various textures and flavors alongside your salad.
6. Fruit Platter: An assortment of seasonal fruits can serve as a refreshing dessert option after enjoying your meal.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch that complements both flavors and textures within the meal.
8. Breadsticks or Rolls: Soft breadsticks or dinner rolls are great for soaking up any leftover dressing from your plate!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an Easter Salad can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect its taste and presentation. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Skipping the Toasting Step: Not toasting the almonds can lead to a bland flavor. Always toast them for enhanced taste and crunch.
• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed for balance.
• Using Unripe Strawberries: Unripe strawberries can be sour and unappealing. Choose ripe, sweet strawberries for better flavor.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using old or wilted greens will ruin the salad’s freshness. Always use fresh, crisp greens for the best results.
• Forgetting Seasoning: Neglecting to season properly can result in a flat-tasting salad. Add salt and pepper to taste for enhanced flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Easter Salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easter Salad

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as it will affect the texture of the greens and strawberries.

Reheating Easter Salad

• Oven: Not suitable; salads should be served cold.
• Microwave: Not applicable; it’s best enjoyed fresh.
• Stovetop: Again, not recommended; serve chilled for optimal taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about preparing or enjoying your Easter Salad, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I customize my Easter Salad?

Yes! You can add other fruits like blueberries or nuts such as pecans for added flavor and texture.

What dressing pairs well with Easter Salad?

The Lemon Honey Vinaigrette is a perfect match, but you could also try balsamic vinaigrette or a light yogurt dressing.

How do I make my salad more filling?

To make your Easter Salad heartier, consider adding grilled chicken or quinoa as protein options.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just store the components separately until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

Easter Salad is not only visually stunning but also packed with flavors that celebrate spring. With sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy almonds, this dish offers versatility that allows for customization based on your preferences. Whether served at an Easter gathering or enjoyed on a sunny day, it’s sure to delight everyone at the table!