Introduction
Elevate your salad game with this delightful Balsamic-Honey-Lime Vinaigrette, a perfect accompaniment for fresh and vibrant salads. Its harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors will not only enhance the taste of your greens but also add a burst of color and texture. Paired with strawberries and a medley of toppings, this salad is an ideal dish for any gathering or a refreshing meal on a warm day.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Juice of 1 lime (2 tablespoons)
Zest of ½ lime
2 tablespoons good balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons honey
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼-½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 pint strawberries, hulled and sliced
¼ cup goat or feta cheese, crumbled
½ cup dried cranberries
4 slices bacon, crisped and crumbled
¼ cup pecans, honey roasted or toasted
1-2 tablespoons mint leaves, rough chopped
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Instructions for the Vinaigrette
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, lime zest, balsamic vinegar, honey, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
2. While whisking vigorously, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture emulsifies.
3. Refrigerate the dressing until ready to serve.
Instructions for the Salad
1. Arrange the sliced strawberries on a serving plate or platter.
2. Sprinkle the strawberries with crumbled cheese, dried cranberries, crumbled bacon, and pecans.
3. Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad.
4. Garnish with rough-chopped mint leaves.
5. Serve and enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Vinaigrette
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice (2 tablespoons), lime zest (from ½ lime), balsamic vinegar (2 tablespoons), honey (3 tablespoons), kosher salt (½ teaspoon), freshly ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon), smoked paprika (½ teaspoon), and red pepper flakes (¼-½ teaspoon) until well combined.
Emulsify the Dressing
2. While whisking vigorously, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil (½ cup) until the mixture emulsifies, achieving a cohesive and creamy consistency.
Chill the Vinaigrette
3. Refrigerate the dressing until ready to serve to allow the flavors to meld and the vinaigrette to chill.
Prepare the Salad
1. Arrange the sliced strawberries (1 pint, hulled and sliced) on a serving plate or platter, creating an attractive presentation.
Add Salad Toppings
2. Evenly sprinkle the strawberries with crumbled goat or feta cheese (¼ cup), dried cranberries (½ cup), crumbled crisped bacon (4 slices), and honey-roasted or toasted pecans (¼ cup).
Drizzle with Vinaigrette
3. Generously drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the assembled salad, ensuring even coverage.
Garnish the Salad
4. Finish by garnishing the salad with rough-chopped mint leaves (1-2 tablespoons) to add a fresh flavor and color contrast.
Serve the Salad
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
Notes
Vinaigrette Storage
– If not used immediately, store the vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake or whisk before using.
Salad Variations
– Feel free to customize the salad with additional ingredients such as nuts, seeds, or other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for added flavor and texture.
Cheese Options
– Goat cheese and feta cheese both provide creamy and tangy flavors, but you can substitute with mozzarella or another cheese to suit your taste preference.
Adjusting Heat Level
– If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes in the vinaigrette to keep it milder. Alternatively, increase the amount for a spicier kick.
Cook techniques
Whisking
Whisking is a technique used to combine ingredients smoothly. In this recipe, it helps to blend the vinaigrette ingredients into a well-integrated dressing. Use a medium bowl for ease of movement while whisking.
Emulsifying
Emulsifying involves combining two ingredients that usually do not mix well, such as oil and vinegar. By slowly drizzling in the olive oil while whisking vigorously, you create a stable vinaigrette that has a smooth consistency.
Arranging
Arranging refers to the presentation of salad ingredients. Layer the sliced strawberries and toppings on a serving plate for a visually appealing dish. Take care to distribute ingredients evenly for balanced flavors in each bite.
Garnishing
Garnishing enhances the visual appeal of your dish. Rough-chopped mint leaves not only add color but also contribute a fresh flavor that complements the salad.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of vinegar in the vinaigrette?
Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar as alternatives, but the flavor profile will change slightly.
How long can I store the vinaigrette?
The vinaigrette can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week in an airtight container. Shake well before using.
Can I substitute the honey for another sweetener?
Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness profile, but it may alter the flavor.
What types of cheese work well in this salad?
Both goat cheese and feta add a tangy flavor. You can also experiment with crumbled blue cheese or a creamy mozzarella for variation.
Is there a non-meat alternative to bacon?
Yes, you could use crispy chickpeas or smoked tempeh as a meat alternative that still adds crunch and flavor.
Conclusion
The Balsamic-Honey-Lime Vinaigrette perfectly complements the fresh flavors of the strawberry salad, creating a delightful balance of sweetness and tang. This vibrant salad not only tantalizes the taste buds but also presents a visually stunning dish suitable for any occasion. The combination of ingredients offers a savory and refreshing experience that is both exciting and satisfying.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Chicken Salad
Replace bacon with grilled chicken strips for a protein-packed option. Add in some avocado slices and cherry tomatoes for a heartier meal.
Quinoa Salad Bowl
Use cooked quinoa as a base for your salad. Top with the strawberries, crumbled cheese, and nuts, drizzled with the vinaigrette for a healthy grain bowl.
Spinach Strawberry Salad
Mix fresh spinach leaves with the other salad ingredients. The spinach will add a pop of color and additional nutrients, making it even more nutritious.
Peach and Blackberry Salad
Swap strawberries for fresh peaches and blackberries for a seasonal twist. The sweet fruits will pair beautifully with the balsamic vinaigrette.
Roasted Veggie Salad
Add roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts to the salad for a warm and filling option. Toss everything together with the vinaigrette for a comforting meal.
