Introduction
This delightful strawberry poppyseed salad is a refreshing and vibrant addition to any meal. Combining crisp romaine and iceberg lettuces with the sweetness of fresh strawberries, this salad is bursting with flavor and texture. The creamy sharp cheddar and tangy feta cheese enhance the taste, while sugared almonds add a sweet crunch. Topped off with croutons and a light poppyseed dressing, this salad is perfect for a summer gathering, a light lunch, or as a side dish at dinner.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 3 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped or torn
– 3 cups Iceberg lettuce, chopped or torn
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, rinsed, dried, and sliced
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or your favorite)
– ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
– ½ cup sugared almonds (store-bought or homemade)
– Kosher salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper
– Croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– Poppyseed dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lettuce and Strawberries
In a large serving bowl, combine the chopped or torn Romaine lettuce and Iceberg lettuce. Rinse, dry, and slice the fresh strawberries, then add them to the bowl.
Step 2: Add Cheese and Nuts
Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and crumbled feta cheese over the lettuce and strawberries. Then, add the sugared almonds to the mixture.
Step 3: Season the Salad
Season the salad with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences.
Step 4: Toss the Ingredients
Gently toss all the salad ingredients together to ensure they are evenly mixed.
Step 5: Drizzle the Dressing
Drizzle your desired amount of poppyseed dressing over the salad, making sure it coats the ingredients well.
Step 6: Add Croutons
Just before serving, add croutons on top of the salad to keep them crunchy.
Step 7: Serve the Salad
Serve the salad immediately, offering extra croutons on the side if desired.
Notes
Storage Instructions
This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store the salad without the dressing and croutons in the refrigerator to maintain its crispness.
Customization Options
Feel free to customize the salad with additional toppings like grilled chicken, walnuts, or different types of cheese based on your preferences.
Dressing Variations
If you prefer a different dressing, you can substitute the poppyseed dressing with a vinaigrette or your favorite creamy dressing.
Cook techniques
Mixing Greens
To achieve a well-balanced flavor in your salad, use gentle folding techniques when combining the Romaine and Iceberg lettuce. This prevents bruising and preserves their crispness.
Slicing Strawberries
For evenly sliced strawberries, use a sharp knife and slice them from the stem end down to the base. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure consistent flavor in each bite.
Shredding Cheese
To easily shred cheddar cheese, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before shredding. This will make it firmer and easier to handle.
Crumbly Feta
Use a fork to crumble feta cheese for better texture. This allows it to blend nicely with the other ingredients without clumping together.
Seasoning
When seasoning, start with a small amount of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then gradually adjust to taste. This ensures you don’t overpower the natural flavors of the salad.
Tossing Ingredients
To combine the salad ingredients without bruising them, use a large spoon or salad tongs to gently toss, rather than stirring aggressively.
Drizzling Dressing
Always drizzle dressing over the salad before serving, not before tossing. This helps to prevent sogginess and maintains the ingredients’ integrity until you’re ready to eat.
Adding Croutons
For optimal crunch, add croutons just before serving. This avoids them becoming soggy and keeps the fresh texture of the salad.
FAQ
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. However, it’s best to add the dressing and croutons just before serving for the freshest taste.
What can I substitute for sugared almonds?
If you prefer a different flavor, try using candied walnuts or pecans as an alternative to sugared almonds.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese, such as mozzarella or goat cheese, according to your taste.
How can I make homemade croutons?
To make homemade croutons, cube day-old bread, toss with olive oil and seasonings, then bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden and crisp, about 10-15 minutes.
Is the poppyseed dressing necessary?
While the poppyseed dressing adds flavor, you can substitute it with your favorite salad dressing or even a simple vinaigrette if preferred.
Conclusion
This strawberry poppyseed salad is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients, offering a balance of flavors and textures that are sure to please. The crunchiness of the lettuce, the sweetness of the strawberries, and the creaminess of the cheeses create a harmonious dish. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a refreshing side at any gathering. Enjoy the burst of flavors with each bite!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Berry Nut Salad
Combine mixed greens with blueberries, raspberries, walnuts, and a light raspberry vinaigrette for a fruity twist.
Crispy Chicken Salad
Add grilled or crispy chicken to the salad, along with avocado slices and a balsamic dressing for a heartier meal.
Greek Salad Remix
Incorporate cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and red onion with feta for a Mediterranean flair.
Spinach and Bacon Salad
Mix baby spinach with crispy bacon bits, sliced apples, and a warm bacon dressing for a savory option.
Quinoa and Bean Salad
Combine cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, and bell peppers with a lime cilantro dressing for a protein-packed vegetarian dish.
