Description
A refreshing and vibrant salad featuring mixed greens, fresh strawberries, orange segments, cucumber, and red onion, all tossed in a zesty citrus vinaigrette. Topped with crumbled feta cheese and toasted nuts for a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Perfect as a light main course or a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients
Salad
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., spinach, arugula, romaine)
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 orange, segmented
- 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted
Citrus Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and thoroughly dry the salad greens to avoid sogginess. Hull and slice the strawberries, segment the orange carefully to remove all membranes, and thinly slice the cucumber and red onion to create even, crisp pieces for the salad.
- Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh orange juice, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of salt and pepper until the mixture emulsifies into a smooth and tangy dressing.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the prepared mixed greens, sliced strawberries, orange segments, cucumber, and red onion. Drizzle the citrus vinaigrette over the top and toss gently but thoroughly to evenly coat the salad ingredients without bruising the delicate fruit and greens.
- Serve: Before serving, sprinkle the salad with crumbled feta cheese and toasted walnuts or pecans to add richness and a satisfying crunch. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and textures at their best.
Notes
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Toast the nuts lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant to enhance their flavor.
- Use fresh-squeezed orange and lemon juice for the best taste in the vinaigrette.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh and should be served promptly after dressing to maintain crispness.
- You can substitute other seasonal fruits like blueberries or peaches depending on availability.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American