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Fresh Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad Recipe with Easy Candied Pecans for Perfect Summer Meals

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A bright and refreshing summer salad combining fresh strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy homemade candied pecans, dressed with a light white balsamic vinaigrette.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens or baby spinach
  • 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
  • Candied Pecans:
  • 1 cup pecans
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
  • Pinch of salt
  • Dressing:
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Candied Pecans: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the granulated sugar and a pinch of salt, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to bubble gently (about 2-3 minutes). Add the pecans and stir to coat evenly.
  2. Spread the coated pecans onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let cool completely (about 10 minutes) until hardened.
  3. Wash and dry the salad greens or spinach thoroughly using a salad spinner or pat dry with a towel.
  4. Hull and slice the strawberries into thin pieces.
  5. Make the dressing by whisking together olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the greens, sliced strawberries, and half of the crumbled goat cheese. Drizzle with half of the dressing and toss gently to coat evenly without bruising the berries or greens.
  7. Plate the salad and sprinkle with the remaining goat cheese and a generous handful of candied pecans.
  8. Optionally, add freshly ground black pepper on top and a light drizzle of extra dressing if desired.

Notes

Make candied pecans up to three days ahead and store in an airtight container. Toss salad gently to avoid bruising strawberries. Use white balsamic vinegar for a bright dressing. Optionally toast pecans for extra depth.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry salad, goat cheese salad, candied pecans, summer salad, easy salad recipe, fresh salad, healthy salad

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/fresh-strawberry-goat-cheese-salad-recipe-with-easy-candied-pecans-for-perfect-summer-meals/