Ingredients
Salad
- 7 cups mixed salad greens (lightly packed)
- 1 8oz pint fresh strawberries, sliced
- 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese
- ½ cup slivered almonds or walnuts (toasted)
- Fresh black pepper (for garnish)
Sweet Basil Vinaigrette
- 1 cup avocado oil
- ¾ cup fresh basil (chopped)
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2-3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a mason jar, combine all the vinaigrette ingredients: avocado oil, chopped fresh basil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. Shake well until the mixture is emulsified. For a smoother and creamier texture, optionally use an immersion blender or small food processor to blend the ingredients thoroughly.
- Toast the Nuts: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat, then add slivered almonds or walnuts. Stir frequently to prevent burning, cooking until the nuts turn golden brown and release a fragrant aroma, about 2 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and let them cool before adding to the salad to maintain their crunch.
- Assemble the Salad: Wash and thoroughly dry the mixed salad greens to avoid sogginess. Place them into a large bowl, then top evenly with sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, and the toasted nuts.
- Add Dressing and Garnish: Drizzle the prepared sweet basil vinaigrette over the salad just before serving, or serve it on the side to allow guests to add as they prefer. Finish by garnishing with freshly cracked black pepper for an added touch of flavor.
Notes
- For a creamier vinaigrette, blend the dressing ingredients instead of shaking.
- Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and crunch but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Serve the dressing separately if preparing salad ahead of time to keep greens fresh.
- Feel free to substitute almonds with walnuts or your favorite nuts.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh on the day it is made.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
