Easter Salad Recipe

Every Easter, our family table groans under the weight of traditional favorites – ham, scalloped potatoes, deviled eggs. But amidst all the rich, comforting classics, there’s always been a craving for something bright, fresh, and vibrant. That’s where this Easter Salad, affectionately dubbed the Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette in our house, truly shines. The first time I made it, I was looking for a salad that felt celebratory and seasonal. The combination of sweet, juicy strawberries, tangy goat cheese, and the delightful crunch of toasted almonds against a backdrop of crisp greens seemed like the perfect embodiment of spring. And I was right! From the moment I set the bowl on the table, it was a visual feast. The vibrant red of the strawberries, the creamy white of the goat cheese, and the golden almonds sprinkled over the lush greens—it was instantly appealing. But the real magic happened with the first bite. The burst of sweetness from the strawberries, the creamy tang of the goat cheese, the nutty crunch of the almonds, all harmonized by the bright, zesty Lemon Honey Vinaigrette – it was a symphony of flavors and textures. Even my kids, who can sometimes be salad-averse, devoured it. “This salad tastes like sunshine!” my youngest declared, and I couldn’t have put it better myself. Since then, this Easter Salad has become a non-negotiable part of our Easter celebrations, and honestly, we make it throughout spring and summer whenever strawberries are at their peak. It’s a salad that’s not just delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy holiday gatherings or a simple weeknight meal. So, if you’re looking for a salad that will impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds, look no further. This Easter Salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will bring the freshness of spring right to your table.

Ingredients

This Easter Salad is built on a foundation of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Let’s break down what you’ll need for both the salad and the star of the show – the Lemon Honey Vinaigrette.

For the Salad:

• 1 cup slivered almonds: Almonds are the unsung heroes of this salad, adding a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the tang of the goat cheese. Slivered almonds are ideal for their delicate texture and even toasting.
• 12 ounces mixed spring greens: A bed of mixed spring greens provides a light, refreshing base for the salad. Look for a mix that includes a variety of textures and flavors, such as baby spinach, romaine lettuce, red leaf lettuce, and maybe even some peppery arugula. The variety adds complexity and makes each bite more interesting.
• 16 ounces strawberries, washed, hulled, & sliced: Strawberries are the jewels of this Easter Salad. Choose ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best flavor. Washing and hulling them properly is key, and slicing them ensures they are easy to eat and distribute their sweetness throughout the salad.
• 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese: Creamy, tangy goat cheese is the perfect counterpoint to the sweet strawberries. Its slightly earthy and savory notes add depth and complexity to the salad. Crumbled goat cheese is readily available and easy to sprinkle evenly over the salad.

For the Lemon Honey Vinaigrette:

• ½ cup sunflower, safflower, OR extra-virgin olive oil (neutral-flavored): The oil forms the base of our vinaigrette. The recipe recommends neutral-flavored oils like sunflower or safflower oil, or extra-virgin olive oil. Neutral oils allow the bright flavors of lemon and honey to truly shine, while extra-virgin olive oil will impart a slightly richer, fruitier note. The choice depends on your preference and the overall flavor profile you desire.
• 5 tablespoons freshly-squeezed lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is absolutely essential for the vibrant, zesty flavor of this vinaigrette. Bottled lemon juice simply cannot compare in terms of freshness and brightness. The acidity of the lemon juice cuts through the richness of the oil and balances the sweetness of the honey.
• 2 tablespoons honey: Honey adds a touch of natural sweetness and a beautiful floral note to the vinaigrette. It also helps to emulsify the dressing, creating a smoother, more cohesive texture. Choose a good quality honey for the best flavor – wildflower, clover, or even orange blossom honey would be lovely.
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt, plus additional to taste: Sea salt enhances all the flavors in the vinaigrette and the salad itself. Start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust to your liking. Different types of salt can be used, but sea salt or kosher salt are generally preferred for their clean taste.
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and spice that complements the other flavors. Grind it fresh for the most aromatic and flavorful pepper.
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds, optional: Poppy seeds are a delightful optional addition, adding a subtle nutty flavor and a visual pop to the vinaigrette. They are not essential but do elevate the dressing both in terms of flavor and presentation.

Instructions

Creating this Easter Salad is a breeze, and it comes together in just minutes. Follow these simple, step-by-step instructions to make a salad that’s both beautiful and delicious.

Step 1: Toast the Almonds

• Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Almonds: Begin by adjusting the oven rack to the center position and preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Even oven temperature is crucial for even toasting. Spread the slivered almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet. Using a sheet pan ensures the almonds toast evenly and don’t steam.
• Toast the Almonds to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5 to 7 minutes. The key here is to watch them very carefully! Almonds can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in a matter of seconds. You’re looking for them to become fragrant and a light golden brown color. Stir them halfway through to ensure even toasting.
• Cool Completely: Once toasted, remove the almonds from the oven and immediately transfer them to a plate or another cool surface to stop the cooking process. Allow them to cool completely before adding them to the salad. Cooling is important because warm almonds can wilt the greens and soften the goat cheese.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Honey Vinaigrette

• Combine Ingredients in a Mason Jar (or Bowl/Blender): The vinaigrette can be made in a Mason jar, a bowl, or a mini food processor/blender. For the Mason jar method, which is the simplest and most fun, measure all the vinaigrette ingredients – oil, lemon juice, honey, sea salt, black pepper, and poppy seeds (if using) – directly into the jar.
• Shake Vigorously (or Whisk/Blend): Tightly screw on the lid of the Mason jar. Make sure it’s secure to avoid any spills! Shake the jar vigorously for about 30-60 seconds, or until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and emulsified. Emulsification is the process of forcing oil and water-based liquids to combine into a stable mixture. Shaking, whisking, or blending breaks down the oil into tiny droplets and suspends them in the lemon juice and honey mixture, creating a creamy and cohesive vinaigrette.
  • Whisking Method: If using a bowl, simply whisk all the ingredients together vigorously until emulsified. This might take a bit longer than shaking, but it works just as well.
  • Blender/Food Processor Method: For an extra smooth and creamy vinaigrette, you can use a mini food processor or blender. Combine all ingredients and blend until smooth and emulsified. This method is particularly useful if you want a very thick and creamy dressing.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Once the vinaigrette is emulsified, taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt, a squeeze more lemon juice for extra tang, or a drizzle more honey for sweetness, depending on your preference.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

• Layer Salad Ingredients in a Large Bowl: In a large, beautiful salad bowl, layer the mixed spring greens as the base. Then, artfully arrange the sliced strawberries over the greens. Sprinkle the toasted slivered almonds and crumbled goat cheese evenly over the strawberries. Layering creates a visually appealing salad and ensures that each element is well-distributed.
• Dress Just Before Serving: The key to a perfect salad is to dress it just before serving. This prevents the greens from wilting and keeps the almonds crunchy. Pour your desired amount of the Lemon Honey Vinaigrette over the salad. Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed – you can always add more dressing, but you can’t take it away!
• Toss Gently: Gently toss the salad until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the vinaigrette. Be careful not to over-toss, as this can bruise the greens and make the salad soggy. A light, gentle toss is all you need to distribute the dressing and combine the flavors.
• Serve Immediately: Serve the Easter Salad immediately for the best taste and texture. Enjoy the beautiful colors, fresh flavors, and delightful textures of your spring masterpiece!

Nutrition Facts

This Easter Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a relatively light and healthy option, making it a guilt-free indulgence for any occasion.

Servings: 8 servings
Calories: Approximately 210 kcal per serving

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving (Estimates may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes):

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 7g

Nutritional Highlights:

• Vitamins and Minerals: Strawberries are an excellent source of Vitamin C and antioxidants. Spring greens provide Vitamin K, Vitamin A, and folate. Goat cheese is a good source of calcium and protein. Almonds are rich in Vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats.
• Healthy Fats: The vinaigrette, made with olive oil or neutral oils, provides healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. Almonds also contribute healthy fats.
• Fiber: Spring greens and almonds provide dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes satiety.
• Lower in Calories: Compared to many other salads that are laden with heavy dressings or creamy ingredients, this Easter Salad is relatively light and lower in calories, making it a healthier choice.

Important Note: These nutrition facts are estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and types of ingredients used, as well as portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the exact ingredients and amounts you use.

Preparation Time

One of the best things about this Easter Salad is how quickly it comes together. It’s perfect for those times when you need a delicious and impressive dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Time Breakdown:

• Toasting Almonds: 7 minutes (oven time) + 5 minutes (cooling time) = 12 minutes (active time is minimal, mostly oven time)
• Preparing Vinaigrette: 5 minutes
• Washing and Slicing Strawberries: 5 minutes
• Assembling Salad: 3 minutes

Tips to Speed Up Preparation:

• Pre-washed Greens: Use pre-washed spring greens to save time on washing and drying.
• Pre-sliced Strawberries (Carefully): While freshly sliced strawberries are best, you can sometimes find pre-sliced strawberries at the grocery store. If using pre-sliced, make sure they look fresh and are not overly watery.
• Make Vinaigrette Ahead: The Lemon Honey Vinaigrette can be made up to a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake before using.
• Toast Almonds Ahead: Toasted almonds can also be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

With a little bit of planning, you can have this vibrant and flavorful Easter Salad ready in just about 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a festive holiday gathering.

How to Serve

This Easter Salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, making it perfect for different occasions and meal types.

Serving Suggestions:

• As a Side Salad:
  • Easter Brunch or Dinner: The name says it all! This salad is a stunning addition to any Easter feast. Serve it alongside ham, roasted lamb, or a vegetarian main course.
  • Spring Luncheons: It’s a light and refreshing side for spring luncheons, bridal showers, or baby showers.
  • Weeknight Dinners: Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a healthy and flavorful weeknight meal.
  • BBQs and Cookouts: Bring this salad to your next BBQ or cookout for a vibrant and refreshing side dish that balances heavier grilled foods.
• As a Light Lunch:
  • Standalone Salad: For a light and satisfying lunch, enjoy a generous portion of this salad on its own.
  • With Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or lentils to make it a more substantial and protein-packed lunch.
• Presentation Ideas:
  • Large Salad Bowl: For a family-style meal, serve the salad in a large, beautiful salad bowl. This allows everyone to easily serve themselves.
  • Individual Bowls: For a more elegant presentation, serve the salad in individual bowls or plates. This is perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.
  • Platter: For a visually stunning presentation, arrange the greens on a large platter and artfully layer the strawberries, goat cheese, and almonds on top. Drizzle the vinaigrette lightly over the platter just before serving.
  • Garnish: Garnish the salad with a few extra fresh strawberries, a sprinkle of toasted almonds, or a sprig of fresh mint for an extra touch of elegance.

Serving Temperature:

• This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature. Avoid serving it too cold, as this can dull the flavors.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this Easter Salad is sure to be a hit. Its bright flavors, beautiful colors, and delightful textures make it a welcome addition to any table.

Additional Tips for the Perfect Easter Salad

Want to take your Easter Salad to the next level? Here are five additional tips to ensure your salad is absolutely perfect every time:

1. Vary Your Greens for Texture and Flavor: While mixed spring greens are a classic choice, don’t be afraid to experiment with other greens to add different textures and flavor profiles. Consider adding:
   • Baby Spinach: Adds a slightly sweeter and milder flavor, and a softer texture.
   • Arugula: Provides a peppery and slightly bitter bite, adding complexity.
   • Romaine Lettuce: Offers a crisp and refreshing crunch.
   • Baby Kale: For a heartier green with a slightly earthy flavor.
     Combining different types of greens can create a more interesting and nuanced salad base.
2. Enhance the Sweetness with Other Fruits: Strawberries are the star, but you can enhance the fruity notes and add even more spring flavors by incorporating other fresh fruits:
   • Blueberries: Add a burst of juicy sweetness and beautiful color contrast.
   • Raspberries: Bring a slightly tart and delicate flavor that complements the strawberries.
   • Mandarin Oranges or Clementines: Offer a bright citrusy note and sweetness, especially if strawberries are not perfectly ripe.
   • Blackberries: For a deeper, richer berry flavor and visual appeal.
     Adding a mix of berries can create a truly vibrant and flavorful fruit medley in your salad.
3. Explore Different Cheese Variations: Goat cheese is a classic pairing, but you can experiment with other cheeses to create different flavor profiles:
   • Feta Cheese: Provides a saltier and tangier flavor, with a crumbly texture.
   • Ricotta Salata: A salty, firm, and slightly milky cheese that can be shaved or crumbled.
   • Burrata: For a creamy and luxurious texture, torn burrata adds richness and indulgence.
   • Shaved Parmesan: Offers a salty, nutty, and umami-rich flavor with a delicate texture.
     Choosing a different cheese can completely transform the flavor profile of the salad, allowing you to customize it to your preferences.
4. Boost the Protein for a Heartier Salad: To make this salad a more substantial meal, consider adding a protein element:
   • Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: Classic protein additions that pair beautifully with the fresh flavors.
   • Chickpeas or White Beans: For a vegetarian protein boost, roasted or pan-fried chickpeas or white beans add substance and nuttiness.
   • Lentils: Cooked lentils offer a hearty and earthy protein source.
   • Hard-boiled Eggs: Sliced or quartered hard-boiled eggs are a simple and classic salad protein addition, especially fitting for Easter.
     Adding protein turns this salad into a complete and satisfying meal.
5. Elevate with Fresh Herb Garnishes: Fresh herbs can add a final layer of flavor and aroma to your Easter Salad:
   • Fresh Mint: Provides a refreshing and slightly sweet flavor that complements strawberries and goat cheese perfectly.
   • Fresh Basil: Adds a peppery and slightly anise-like note that pairs well with strawberries and balsamic undertones (if you want to add a balsamic drizzle).
   • Fresh Chives: Offer a mild oniony flavor and delicate green garnish.
   • Fresh Parsley: Adds a clean and slightly peppery freshness.
     Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs over the salad just before serving to enhance its aroma and flavor.

By incorporating these additional tips, you can customize this Easter Salad to your liking and create a truly memorable and delicious dish that everyone will love.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Got questions about making the perfect Easter Salad? Here are answers to some common queries:

Q1: Can I make the Lemon Honey Vinaigrette ahead of time?

A: Yes, absolutely! In fact, making the vinaigrette ahead of time is a great way to save time when assembling the salad. The Lemon Honey Vinaigrette can be made up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors often meld and deepen over time. Just be sure to give it a good shake or whisk before using, as the oil and lemon juice may separate slightly upon standing.

Q2: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of goat cheese?

A: Yes, you can definitely substitute goat cheese with other cheeses based on your preference or what you have available. Good alternatives include:

• Feta Cheese: Provides a saltier and tangier flavor, offering a different but equally delicious counterpoint to the strawberries.
• Ricotta Salata: A firmer, saltier, and slightly milky cheese that can be shaved or crumbled. It adds a different texture and flavor profile.
• Burrata or Fresh Mozzarella: For a milder and creamier option, burrata or fresh mozzarella can be used, although they will be less tangy than goat cheese.
• Vegan Feta: For a dairy-free option, there are many delicious vegan feta cheeses available made from almond milk, soy, or coconut oil.

Consider the flavor profile you are aiming for when choosing a cheese substitute. Goat cheese provides a distinct tanginess, while other cheeses will offer different flavor nuances.

Q3: Can I use frozen strawberries if fresh strawberries are not available?

A: While fresh strawberries are definitely recommended for the best flavor and texture in this salad, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Thaw and Drain: Thaw the frozen strawberries completely and drain off any excess liquid. Frozen strawberries tend to release a lot of water when thawed, which can make the salad soggy.
• Texture Change: Thawed frozen strawberries will be softer in texture than fresh strawberries.
• Flavor: The flavor of frozen strawberries may be slightly less intense than fresh, especially if they are out of season.

If using frozen strawberries, consider adding them to the salad closer to serving time to minimize sogginess, and perhaps compensate for any loss of flavor by using a slightly more concentrated vinaigrette or adding a touch of extra honey. For the best results, always aim for fresh, ripe strawberries when possible.

Q4: How long does the assembled Easter Salad last?

A: For the best quality, it is recommended to assemble and dress the Easter Salad just before serving. Once dressed, the salad is best consumed immediately. The vinaigrette will cause the greens to wilt over time, and the toasted almonds may lose their crunch.

However, if you have leftovers or need to prepare components ahead of time:

• Undressed Salad Components: You can prepare the salad components (greens, sliced strawberries, toasted almonds, crumbled goat cheese) ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator.
• Vinaigrette: The vinaigrette can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

When ready to serve, simply combine the salad components and dress just before serving. Assembled and dressed salad is best enjoyed within a couple of hours for optimal freshness and texture.

Q5: Can I make this Easter Salad vegan?

A: Yes, you can easily make this Easter Salad vegan with a few simple substitutions:

• Vegan Goat Cheese: There are many delicious vegan goat cheese alternatives available made from nuts, tofu, or other plant-based ingredients. These vegan goat cheeses mimic the creamy and tangy flavor of traditional goat cheese.
• Maple Syrup or Agave Nectar (instead of Honey): Substitute honey in the vinaigrette with maple syrup or agave nectar. Both are natural sweeteners that will provide a similar sweetness and help emulsify the dressing. Ensure to choose pure maple syrup or agave for the best flavor.

By making these substitutions, you can create a delightful and flavorful vegan version of the Easter Salad that everyone can enjoy!

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