Fresh Cold Strawberry Salad with Candied Walnuts
A refreshing summer salad combining juicy strawberries, crisp mixed greens, crunchy candied walnuts, and a tangy balsamic glaze, perfect for light meals or gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (baby spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- 1 cup candied walnuts (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup goat cheese or feta, crumbled (optional)
- 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)
- For homemade candied walnuts: ½ cup walnuts, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the candied walnuts: In a small nonstick skillet over medium heat, combine ½ cup walnuts with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and a pinch of salt. Stir frequently until sugar melts and coats the nuts evenly, about 3-5 minutes. Transfer to parchment paper to cool and harden.
- Wash and slice strawberries: Rinse under cold water, hull by removing green tops, then slice into halves or quarters. Set aside.
- Prepare salad greens: Rinse and dry thoroughly using a salad spinner to avoid sogginess.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, and honey until smooth. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Adjust sweetness or acidity as preferred.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, gently toss salad greens, sliced strawberries, and torn basil leaves. Drizzle with half the dressing and toss again to coat evenly.
- Plate and garnish: Transfer salad to serving plates or a large platter. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese and candied walnuts evenly on top. Drizzle remaining dressing over everything.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh crunch of candied walnuts. If making ahead, keep components separate and combine just before serving.
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients for best flavor. Don’t overdress the salad to avoid wilting greens. Candied walnuts are best fresh and crunchy; store separately if prepping ahead. If strawberries are very juicy, pat dry to prevent sogginess. Balsamic glaze can be homemade by reducing balsamic vinegar and honey until syrupy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 12
- Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 5
Keywords: strawberry salad, candied walnuts, balsamic glaze, summer salad, fresh salad, easy salad recipe, healthy salad