Strawberry Fields Salad

Strawberry Fields Salad is a delightful mix of fresh ingredients that will brighten any meal. With juicy strawberries, creamy feta cheese, and savory Turkey Bacon, this salad offers a perfect balance of flavors. It’s an ideal choice for picnics, potlucks, or a light dinner. The combination of textures and tastes makes it stand out as a refreshing dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: Each bite of Strawberry Fields Salad delivers a vibrant mix of sweet and savory elements.
• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this salad adapts well to your meal needs.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh fruits and protein from chicken and Turkey Bacon, it’s as healthy as it is tasty.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings, this salad is sure to impress your guests with its colorful presentation.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Strawberry Fields Salad easy and efficient. Below are essential tools you’ll need to create this vibrant dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large salad bowl
• Whisk
• Small saucepan
• Baking sheet
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large salad bowl: This helps in easily mixing all the ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Essential for combining the dressing ingredients smoothly.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for making the glazed pecans evenly.
• Baking sheet: Used for roasting pecans to achieve that delicious crunch.

Ingredients

Strawberry Fields Salad with juicy fresh strawberries, feta cheese, red onion, dried cranberries, Turkey Bacon, grilled chicken, glazed pecans, and a sweet and tangy dressing is bursting with flavor.

For the Salad

• 1 (5-ounce) package mixed greens
• 2 cups sliced strawberries
• 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbles
• 4 slices Turkey Bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• 2 grilled chicken breasts (sliced)
• 1/2 cup glazed pecans (recipe below)

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3/4 cup olive oil or vegetable oil

For the Glazed Pecans

• 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Strawberry Fields Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

To make the dressing:
1. In a bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, white sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Gradually add in the olive oil while whisking continuously until well combined.

Step 2: Glaze the Pecans

To make glazed pecans:
1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine water, white sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil.
3. Add in the pecans and stir for about 30 seconds to coat them evenly.
4. Transfer the pecans onto a greased baking sheet and bake for 12–14 minutes until golden brown.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl:
1. Combine mixed greens, sliced strawberries, red onion, dried cranberries, feta cheese crumbles, grilled chicken slices, Turkey Bacon pieces, and glazed pecans.
2. Toss gently to mix everything together evenly.

Step 4: Dress Your Salad

Finally:
1. Drizzle your desired amount of dressing over the salad before serving.
2. Toss lightly again to ensure all ingredients are coated well with dressing.

Enjoy your vibrant Strawberry Fields Salad!

How to Serve Strawberry Fields Salad

Serving Strawberry Fields Salad is a delightful experience that enhances any meal. This vibrant and flavorful salad can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for gatherings or a simple family dinner.

As a Main Dish

• Pair with grilled chicken: The addition of extra grilled chicken can elevate this salad to a satisfying main course.
• Serve on a bed of quinoa: For added texture and nutrition, serve the salad over cooked quinoa.

As a Side Salad

• Accompany with barbecued meats: This salad complements smoky flavors wonderfully, making it ideal for summer cookouts.
• Pair with roasted vegetables: The sweetness of the strawberries balances well with savory roasted veggies.

For a Picnic

• Pack in mason jars: Layer ingredients in mason jars for an easy-to-transport option that looks appealing.
• Include portable dressing: Keep the dressing separate in small containers to ensure freshness until serving.

How to Perfect Strawberry Fields Salad

Creating the perfect Strawberry Fields Salad involves attention to detail and quality ingredients. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use fresh strawberries: Opt for ripe, juicy strawberries for maximum flavor impact.
• Add texture with nuts: Glazed pecans not only add sweetness but also provide a satisfying crunch.
• Balance flavors in the dressing: Adjust the honey and vinegar ratio according to your taste preferences to achieve the desired sweetness and tanginess.
• Layer ingredients thoughtfully: When tossing the salad, layer ingredients evenly to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Customize with seasonal fruits: Feel free to add other seasonal fruits like blueberries or raspberries for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Fields Salad

To complement your Strawberry Fields Salad, consider these delicious side dishes. They enhance your meal without overshadowing this vibrant salad.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, grilled corn pairs perfectly with fresh salads, adding a summer touch.
2. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make for a comforting side that everyone loves.
3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction create a light and refreshing accompaniment.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus seasoned with salt and pepper brings earthiness that balances the sweetness of strawberries.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms provide a rich contrast while being easy to share at gatherings.
6. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with herbs and lemon adds another layer of freshness alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Strawberry Fields Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some tips to avoid these pitfalls.

• Using stale ingredients: Always opt for fresh strawberries and greens. Stale ingredients can ruin the dish’s overall taste and texture.
• Overdressing the salad: Less is more when it comes to dressing. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to avoid sogginess.
• Ignoring the balance of flavors: Ensure your salad has a good mix of sweet, salty, and savory components. This balance elevates the dish.
• Not slicing ingredients properly: Thinly slice your red onion and strawberries for better integration and easier eating. Chunky pieces can overwhelm the palate.
• Skipping the pecan glaze: The glazed pecans add a special crunch and sweetness. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for depth of flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Strawberry Fields Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing Strawberry Fields Salad

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to its fresh ingredients, which can become watery after thawing.
• If you must freeze, consider only freezing cooked chicken or glazed pecans separately.

Reheating Strawberry Fields Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm chicken or bacon on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on low power in short bursts to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Warm up chicken or bacon in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Strawberry Fields Salad?

Yes! You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences. Try adding nuts, seeds, or different types of cheese for variety.

What is the best time to serve Strawberry Fields Salad?

This salad is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light meal any day of the week.

How can I make my own dressing for Strawberry Fields Salad?

You can combine olive oil, vinegar, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper for a quick homemade dressing that pairs beautifully with the ingredients.

Is Strawberry Fields Salad healthy?

Definitely! With fresh vegetables, lean protein from chicken, and healthy fats from pecans, this salad offers balanced nutrition.

Final Thoughts

The Strawberry Fields Salad is not only vibrant but also versatile. Its combination of fresh fruits, savory elements, and creamy feta makes it a delightful dish for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or proteins! Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed.

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Strawberry Fields Salad

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 29 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Strawberry Fields Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of juicy strawberries with the creaminess of feta cheese and the savory crunch of Turkey Bacon. This salad is perfect for any occasion, from picnics to light dinners, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. With its quick preparation time and nutritious ingredients, it’s sure to impress your guests while being a healthy choice for you. Enjoy this colorful dish as a main course or as an impressive side at your next gathering!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 (5-ounce) package mixed greens
• 2 cups sliced strawberries
• 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbles
• 4 slices Turkey Bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• 2 grilled chicken breasts (sliced)
• 1/2 cup glazed pecans
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3/4 cup olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
• 1/4 cup white sugar (for pecans)
• 2 tablespoons water (for pecans)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (for pecans)
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper (for pecans)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for pecans)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the dressing by whisking together apple cider vinegar, honey, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and olive oil until well combined.
2. For the glazed pecans, preheat the oven to 350°F. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine water, sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Add pecans, stir to coat, then bake for 12–14 minutes.
3. In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, strawberries, red onion, dried cranberries, feta cheese, grilled chicken slices, Turkey Bacon pieces, and glazed pecans. Toss gently.
4. Drizzle with dressing just before serving and toss lightly again.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 14 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No cooking required, but baking for glazed pecans
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg