Easter Salad

Easter Salad is the perfect dish to brighten up your spring gatherings. With vibrant strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy toasted almonds, this salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. It’s versatile enough to serve as a side at an Easter brunch or as a light main dish on a sunny afternoon. The refreshing Lemon Honey Vinaigrette ties everything together, making this Easter Salad a must-try for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Salad
• For the Vinaigrette
• How to Make Easter Salad
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Vinaigrette
• Step 3: Assemble the Salad
• How to Serve Easter Salad
• For Brunch Gatherings
• As a Side Dish
• Family Dinner Presentation
• Potluck Contribution
• How to Perfect Easter Salad
• Best Side Dishes for Easter Salad
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Easter Salad
• Reheating Easter Salad
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is an Easter Salad?
• Can I make this salad ahead of time?
• What other ingredients can I add to my Easter Salad?
• Is this an easy recipe for beginners?
• How do I store leftovers of my Easter Salad?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This salad takes just 15 minutes to prep, making it a quick addition to your meal.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of sweet strawberries and tangy goat cheese creates a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for Easter celebrations, picnics, or even as a light lunch option.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats from the almonds and greens.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or substitute different cheeses to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this delicious Easter Salad, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar (or medium bowl)
• Sheet pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk (or mini food processor)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar: Great for shaking up the vinaigrette quickly and easily.
• Sheet pan: Ideal for toasting almonds evenly without burning them.
• Mixing bowl: A larger bowl allows for easy tossing of all ingredients together.
• Whisk: Helps ensure all vinaigrette ingredients are well combined if you’re mixing by hand.

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 Vinaigrette

• 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 sheet pan and bake for 5 to 7 minutes. Watch carefully until they become fragrant and light brown. Once done, set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Vinaigrette

To make the Lemon Honey Vinaigrette:
1. Measure all of the vinaigrette ingredients into a Mason jar.
2. Tightly screw on the lid and shake vigorously until combined.
Alternatively, whisk in a medium bowl or blend in a mini food processor.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Layer in the mixed greens.
2. Add sliced strawberries.
3. Sprinkle on toasted slivered almonds.
4. Top with crumbled goat cheese.
5. Just before serving, dress with your desired amount of Lemon Honey Vinaigrette and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Enjoy this refreshing Easter Salad as part of your spring meals!

How to Serve Easter Salad

Easter Salad is a colorful and flavorful dish that can enhance any meal, especially during spring celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a festive brunch or a cozy dinner, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

For Brunch Gatherings

• Pair with Quiche: A slice of savory quiche complements the sweetness of the salad beautifully.
• Serve with Fresh Bread: Crusty artisan bread or warm rolls can add texture and heartiness to your brunch spread.

As a Side Dish

• Alongside Grilled Chicken: The freshness of Easter Salad pairs well with grilled chicken, making for a light yet satisfying meal.
• With Roast Lamb: Enhance your Easter feast by serving the salad next to roasted lamb for a classic combination.

Family Dinner Presentation

• In Individual Bowls: Serve each guest their own portion in small bowls for a more personalized dining experience.
• Garnished with Edible Flowers: Add an elegant touch by sprinkling some edible flowers on top for color and charm.

Potluck Contribution

• In a Large Bowl: Bring the salad in a large bowl with the vinaigrette on the side for guests to dress as they prefer.
• With Extra Toppings: Offer additional toppings like sliced avocados or seeds to allow guests to customize their servings.

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How to Perfect Easter Salad

Perfecting your Easter Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest strawberries and greens you can find. This will make a significant difference in taste.
• Toast Your Nuts: Toasting slivered almonds enhances their flavor and adds crunch, making the salad even more delightful.
• Adjust Dressing Consistency: If your Lemon Honey Vinaigrette is too thick, add a little water or extra lemon juice until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Add Seasonal Variations: Feel free to include seasonal fruits like blueberries or raspberries for added color and flavor variety.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the assembled salad chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes allows flavors to mingle beautifully.
• Customize for Dietary Needs: Substitute goat cheese with feta or omit it entirely for vegan options without sacrificing taste.

Best Side Dishes for Easter Salad

When planning your meal around Easter Salad, consider these delicious side dishes that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Roasted Garlic Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these potatoes provide a hearty contrast to the salad’s freshness.
2. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots bring out the natural sweetness of the strawberries in the salad.
3. Creamy Potato Salad: A classic creamy potato salad offers comforting flavors that balance well with light salads.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Charred asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds an earthy flavor that pairs nicely with the tangy vinaigrette.
5. Deviled Eggs: These classic bites are always a hit and provide protein that complements the salad’s lightness.
6. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses can enhance your meal; choose mild varieties that won’t overwhelm the salad’s flavors.
7. Pasta Primavera: A light pasta dish loaded with fresh vegetables makes for a hearty yet vibrant accompaniment.
8. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms can add depth to your meal while keeping it festive and fun.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Easter Salad can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect its quality. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Toasting Step: Forgetting to toast the almonds can lead to a less flavorful salad. Always toast them to enhance their taste and aroma.

• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much vinaigrette can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount, toss, and add more if needed.

• Using Unripe Strawberries: Choosing strawberries that aren’t fully ripe can result in a bland taste. Opt for bright red, sweet berries for the best flavor.

• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted greens or expired cheese can ruin your salad’s appeal. Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients for vibrant results.

• Ignoring Personal Preferences: Not considering dietary restrictions or preferences might limit enjoyment. Customize your Easter Salad by adding or substituting ingredients based on your guests’ tastes.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Easter Salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easter Salad

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the texture of fresh greens and strawberries.
• The vinaigrette can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Reheating Easter Salad

• Oven: This method isn’t suitable as salads are best served cold.
• Microwave: Avoid microwaving; it will wilt the greens and ruin textures.
• Stovetop: Not applicable; salads should not be reheated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making an Easter Salad:

What is an Easter Salad?

Easter Salad typically features fresh spring ingredients like strawberries and goat cheese, combined with a light dressing. It’s perfect for spring celebrations!

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the vinaigrette and chop your vegetables in advance, but it’s best to assemble the salad right before serving for freshness.

What other ingredients can I add to my Easter Salad?

Feel free to customize with nuts, fruits like blueberries or raspberries, or add protein such as grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra heartiness.

Is this an easy recipe for beginners?

Absolutely! This Easter Salad recipe is simple and quick, making it great for cooks of all skill levels.

How do I store leftovers of my Easter Salad?

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best eaten fresh!

Final Thoughts

Easter Salad is a delightful addition to any spring meal. Its vibrant colors and flavors create an inviting dish that appeals to many tastes. You can easily customize it by adding different fruits or proteins, making it versatile enough for any occasion. Try this refreshing salad at your next gathering!