Easter Salad

Easter Salad is a delightful dish that brightens up any spring gathering. This Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette brings together sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy almonds on a bed of fresh mixed greens. Perfect for Easter brunch or spring picnics, this salad not only looks stunning but offers a burst of flavors that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of strawberries and greens creates a refreshing taste that’s perfect for spring.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this salad can be ready in just 20 minutes.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side or main dish, it pairs well with various proteins like grilled chicken or fish.
• Healthy Option: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this Easter Salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors make it a standout dish on any table setting.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Easter Salad, having the right tools is essential. They help ensure that each step is easy and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar (or bowl/whisk)
• Baking sheet
• Oven
• Large salad bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar: Ideal for mixing the vinaigrette quickly without making a mess.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for toasting almonds evenly for added flavor and crunch.
• Large salad bowl: Ensures there’s enough space for tossing all ingredients together without spillage.

Ingredients

Easter Salad — AKA, Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette — is a beautiful, delicious addition to any spring meal. It features sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and toasted almonds on a bed of mixed greens drizzled with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette!

For the Salad

• 1 cup slivered almonds
• 12 ounces mixed spring greens
• 16 ounces strawberries (washed, hulled, & sliced)
• 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese

For the Dressing

• 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°. Spread the slivered almonds on a baking sheet. Bake for 5 to 7 minutes until fragrant and light brown. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Once done, set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a Mason jar or medium bowl, combine all dressing ingredients:
1. Measure out 1/2 cup sunflower oil,
2. Add 5 tablespoons lemon juice,
3. Mix in 2 tablespoons honey,
4. Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon sea salt,
5. Season with freshly ground black pepper.

Tightly screw on the lid of the jar and shake vigorously until combined. Alternatively, whisk in a bowl or blend using a food processor.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl:
1. Layer in the 12 ounces mixed spring greens.
2. Add the sliced 16 ounces strawberries.
3. Top with toasted slivered almonds.
4. Finally, sprinkle over 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese.

Just before serving, dress with your desired amount of Lemon Honey Vinaigrette and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Enjoy your delicious Easter Salad!

How to Serve Easter Salad

Easter Salad is not just a dish; it’s a centerpiece for your spring table. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As a Light Lunch

• Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
• Add crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious Lemon Honey Vinaigrette.

At a Spring Picnic

• Pack individual portions in mason jars for easy transport.
• Serve with refreshing lemonade or iced tea to complement the flavors.

As an Easter Brunch Dish

• Present it on a large platter for an eye-catching buffet option.
• Include a variety of cheeses and charcuterie for a well-rounded brunch spread.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Accompany with seasonal grilled veggies like asparagus or zucchini.
• Drizzle remaining vinaigrette over vegetables for extra flavor.

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How to Perfect Easter Salad

Creating the perfect Easter Salad involves more than simply tossing ingredients together. Here are some essential tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Choose ripe strawberries and crisp greens for the best taste and texture.
• Toast your almonds: Toasting enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the salad.
• Make the vinaigrette ahead: Prepare the Lemon Honey Vinaigrette in advance to save time during meal prep.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference before serving.
• Serve immediately: For optimal freshness, dress the salad just before serving to prevent wilting.

Best Side Dishes for Easter Salad

Easter Salad pairs beautifully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Baby Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, seasoned simply with herbs.
2. Deviled Eggs: Classic Easter fare; creamy filling complements the tangy salad dressing.
3. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and vibrant, they add color and contrast to your meal.
4. Quiche Lorraine: A savory custard pie that brings richness alongside fresh salad flavors.
5. Spring Pea Risotto: Creamy risotto infused with peas offers a comforting touch.
6. Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Easter Salad can be tricky if you’re not aware of common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overlooking Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or stale greens can ruin the freshness of your Easter Salad. Always choose vibrant, crisp greens for the best flavor and texture.
• Ignoring Balance in Flavors: A salad should have a mix of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. If you skip the dressing or don’t add enough sweetness from fruits like strawberries, the dish might taste bland.
• Skipping Toasting Nuts: Not toasting slivered almonds means missing out on their nutty flavor and crunch. Toast them lightly to enhance their taste before adding to your salad.
• Dressing Too Early: Applying dressing too soon can make your greens soggy. Dress the salad just before serving for maximum freshness and crunch.
• Using Too Much Dressing: While vinaigrette adds great flavor, too much can overpower your Easter Salad. Start with a small amount and add more as needed for balance.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Refrigerate any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep the dressing separate to maintain the freshness of the greens.

Freezing Easter Salad

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as fresh ingredients, especially greens and strawberries, do not freeze well.
• If you must freeze components, consider freezing just the dressing in an ice cube tray.

Reheating Easter Salad

• Oven: Not applicable for salads; they are best served cold or at room temperature.
• Microwave: Avoid microwaving; it will wilt the greens and affect texture.
• Stovetop: Not suitable; this salad is designed to be enjoyed fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about preparing and serving Easter Salad.

What makes a good Easter Salad?

A good Easter Salad combines fresh greens, seasonal fruits like strawberries, creamy cheese, and a light vinaigrette that enhances all flavors without overwhelming them.

Can I customize my Easter Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other fruits such as blueberries or peaches, swap goat cheese for feta, or include additional nuts like walnuts or pecans.

How do I make Lemon Honey Vinaigrette?

To make Lemon Honey Vinaigrette, combine lemon juice, honey, oil, salt, and pepper in a jar or bowl. Shake or whisk until well combined.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes! This Easter Salad is packed with vitamins from fresh vegetables and fruits while providing healthy fats from nuts and cheese.

Final Thoughts

Easter Salad is a delightful addition to any spring meal. Its beautiful colors and refreshing flavors make it perfect for gatherings or a simple family dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for a unique twist that suits your taste!