Name: Fresh and Easy Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad for Summer Joy
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: ¼ cup Olive Oil (or avocado oil for a unique flavor); 2 tbsp Cider Vinegar (or white wine vinegar); 1 tbsp Mustard (preferably Dijon mustard); 1 clove Garlic (minced; garlic powder can be used); 1 tbsp Honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option); to taste tsp Salt (adjust to your taste); 1 small Shallot (finely minced; red onion can be substituted); 2 cups Fresh Strawberry (avoid frozen strawberries); 4 cups Spinach (or kale for a heartier green); 3 cups Romaine Lettuce (any crisp lettuce can substitute); ½ cup Feta Cheese (or goat cheese for a twist); ¼ cup Slivered Almonds (best toasted); ½ small Red Onion (thinly sliced; green onions can be used)

In the midst of a hectic day, I found myself craving a meal that didn’t just nourish but also delighted my senses. Enter the Quick and Easy Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad—an explosion of sweet strawberries, crunchy romaine, and creamy feta that takes just fifteen minutes to prepare. This refreshing salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a stunning side dish for your backyard barbecues. What I love most is its versatility; you can customize it with your favorite seasonal fruits or nuts while enjoying its gluten-free benefits. With every bite, you’ll discover a delightful medley of flavors that makes healthy eating feel like a special treat. Curious about how to whip up this vibrant salad? Let’s dive in!

Why is this salad a must-try?

Simplicity at its Finest: With just fifteen minutes from kitchen to table, this salad is a breeze to prepare, making it ideal for those busy days or spontaneous gatherings.

Bursting with Flavor: Fresh strawberries paired with creamy feta create a vibrant taste explosion, while crunchy romaine adds satisfying texture.

Customizable Delight: Feel free to mix in your favorite seasonal fruits or nuts—making every salad unique and fun!

Healthy and Filling: Packed with nutrients from fresh produce, this dish is not only delicious but also a guilt-free indulgence.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether as a light lunch or a dazzling side at your next barbecue, this Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad is sure to impress. Looking for more salad ideas? Check out our guide to summer salads.

Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad Ingredients

For the Dressing
• Olive Oil – provides the base for the vinaigrette; substitute with avocado oil for a unique flavor.
• Cider Vinegar – adds tanginess; white wine vinegar works as a lovely alternative.
• Mustard – enhances flavor depth; Dijon mustard is preferable for a zesty kick.
• Garlic – offers aromatic notes; garlic powder can work if you want a milder taste.
• Honey – adds sweetness to balance the acidity; maple syrup serves as a great vegan substitute.
• Salt – enhances overall flavor; adjust it to your taste or use flavored salt for added interest.
• Shallot – introduces a mild onion flavor to the dressing; red onion makes a good substitute.

For the Salad
• Fresh Strawberry – the star ingredient that adds sweetness and moisture; avoid frozen strawberries to maintain texture.
• Spinach (4 cups) – adds nutrition and a leafy texture; kale can substitute for a heartier green.
• Romaine Lettuce (3 cups) – provides satisfying crunch; any crisp lettuce can substitute.
• Feta Cheese (½ cup) – adds creaminess and tang; try goat cheese for a delightful twist.
• Slivered Almonds (¼ cup) – perfect for crunch and best toasted until golden; pecans or walnuts are great alternatives.
• Red Onion (½) – thinly sliced for sharpness; green onions are a milder option if preferred.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad

Step 1: Toast Almonds
Begin by toasting the slivered almonds to enhance their flavor. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat, adding the almonds and stirring frequently for about 4 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you’ll want them golden brown but not burnt. Once they achieve a lovely toasted hue, remove the skillet from heat and set the almonds aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare Dressing
Next, make the dressing for your Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad. Mince the garlic and shallot finely, then dice one ripe strawberry. In a jar, combine these ingredients with olive oil, cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the dressing is well emulsified and creamy.

Step 3: Prepare Greens
It’s time to prepare the fresh greens! Rinse the spinach and romaine thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit, then dry them well using a salad spinner or by patting them gently with a clean towel. Tear the romaine into bite-sized pieces for easy eating, ensuring you have a delightful mix of textures ready for your salad.

Step 4: Assemble Salad
In a large serving bowl, combine the washed spinach and torn romaine. Gently toss to mix the greens evenly. Next, add crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, the remaining sliced strawberries, and the toasted almonds to the bowl. This vibrant array of ingredients will bring amazing color and flavor to your Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad.

Step 5: Serve
When you’re ready to enjoy your Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad, drape the vinaigrette over the top or serve it on the side to keep the greens crisp. Toss gently to coat the ingredients just before eating, ensuring a delightful balance of flavors and textures. This refreshing salad is a perfect accompaniment for any meal!

Helpful Tricks for Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad

Dress at the Last Minute: Always serve the dressing on the side or mix it in just before serving to keep greens fresh and crisp.
Dry Thoroughly: Make sure to dry your salad greens thoroughly after washing. Wet greens can lead to a soggy Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad.
Slice Strawberries Fresh: For the best sweetness and texture, slice strawberries right before adding them to the salad. Avoid pre-slicing to maintain freshness.
Perfectly Toasted Nuts: Keep a close eye while toasting the almonds, stirring frequently. Burnt almonds can ruin the salad’s flavor—golden brown is the goal!
Customize Freely: Don’t be afraid to add in your favorite seasonal fruits or nuts to personalize your salad and keep it exciting!

Make Ahead Options

These Simple Strawberry Romaine Feta Salads are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the greens, toasted almonds, and vinaigrette up to 24 hours in advance for an effortless salad experience. To do this, wash and dry the spinach and romaine thoroughly (which helps prevent wilting), store them in an airtight container lined with paper towels, and keep in the refrigerator. Toast the almonds and allow them to cool before placing them in a separate container. The vinaigrette can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve the Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad, simply combine the prepped ingredients, add the freshly sliced strawberries, and drizzle with vinaigrette for a delightful, fresh meal that feels like a treat without the fuss!

What to Serve with Quick and Easy Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad

Complete your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that elevate your meal to new heights.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken adds a hearty protein element, complementing the salad’s fresh flavors beautifully. It’s a perfect pairing for a wholesome lunch.
Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf loaded with herbs offers a satisfying, nutty texture that enhances the salad’s refreshing crunch.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread with a buttery finish provides a delightful contrast to the salad’s crispness and makes for a cozy, comforting side.
Fruit Skewers: A sweet assortment of seasonal fruits makes for a fun, colorful dessert that echoes the strawberry flavors in the salad.
Sparkling Water: Lightly flavored sparkling water is a refreshing beverage choice that cleanses the palate and complements the salad’s vibrant taste.
Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses, from tangy goat to creamy brie, offers a variety of flavors that can contrast intriguing with the sweet strawberries.
Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad with a zesty dressing adds complementary flavors and serves as a hearty side, making the meal feel more festive and satisfying.
Peach Iced Tea: This delicious, chilled beverage adds a hint of sweetness and a refreshing vibe, perfect for sunny days spent outdoors.

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad

Room Temperature: Enjoy your salad fresh; do not leave out for more than 2 hours to avoid spoilage.

Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate until serving to prevent sogginess.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad, as the greens and strawberries will lose their fresh texture upon thawing.

Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold; simply toss fresh ingredients together before serving for optimal taste and freshness.

Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad Variations

Feel free to let your creativity run wild with these delightful twists on the classic salad!

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or salmon for a heartier meal. This totally transforms the salad into a satisfying main dish.
Tropical Twist: Swap out strawberries for diced mango or pineapple to bring a refreshing, tropical vibe. Imagine a burst of sunny flavor in every bite!
Nutty Crunch: Try different nuts like toasted pecans or walnuts for added depth and crunch. Each one brings its own flavor, making it a fun surprise with every forkful.
Vegan Option: Substitute feta with crumbled tofu or a nut-based cheese for a plant-based version. You won’t miss the creaminess but will still get a satisfying texture.
Spice it Up: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or freshly chopped jalapeños. Feel the heat meld perfectly with the sweet strawberries.
Berries Galore: Mix in additional seasonal fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for a colorful fruit medley. It’s a berry delicious twist on the original!
Herb Heaven: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or mint for an aromatic lift. The herby freshness will add complexity to the salad with every bite.
Creamy Dressing: Swap the vinaigrette for a creamy dressing like poppy seed or ranch. This change will give the salad a whole new flavor profile, rich and delicious.

For more exciting salad ideas, don’t forget to explore our favorites in the guide to summer salads!

Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe strawberries for the salad?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and have a sweet fragrance. Avoid any with dark spots or signs of mold. When you bite into one, it should be juicy—this means it’s perfectly ripe for your Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad!

How should I store leftover salad?
You can keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve it again. This way, your greens won’t become soggy, and you’ll maintain that delightful crunch for your next meal.

Can I freeze the salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad. The greens and strawberries will lose their crisp texture once thawed, making it less enjoyable. Instead, prepare the components ahead of time, then mix right before serving for the freshest result!

What if I find my almonds burnt while toasting?
No worries! If you accidentally burn the almonds, it’s best to discard them as burnt nuts can impart a bitter flavor. Instead, start fresh — toast a new batch over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 4 minutes until they’re just golden. It’s an easy fix, and your salad will taste so much better!

Is this salad suitable for those with nut allergies?
Yes, you can absolutely customize this salad! If you or anyone you’re serving has a nut allergy, simply leave out the slivered almonds or replace them with toasted seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for some crunch without the worry.

What dressing should I use if I don’t have cider vinegar?
If you don’t have cider vinegar on hand, white wine vinegar works beautifully as an alternative! It will still provide that tangy flavor that complements the sweet strawberries and creamy feta in your Strawberry Romaine Feta Salad. Just adjust to taste, as it may be slightly milder.