Strawberry Fields Forever (Delicious Strawberry Fields Salad)

Ah, the glory of spring! When the air is fragrant with blossoms and the days are kissed by the sun, there’s nothing quite like diving into a bowl of Strawberry Fields Salad! This vibrant dish bursts with juicy strawberries, creamy feta, and a symphony of textures from crunchy glazed pecans to savory turkey bacon. It’s the kind of salad that makes you feel like you’re dancing through a sun-drenched meadow—refreshing, uplifting, and utterly irresistible!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Fields Salad is not just a salad; it’s a celebration in a bowl! Here’s why this dish will steal the show at your next meal:

– Big, Bold Flavors: Sweet strawberries and tangy feta dance together, while glazed pecans add a delightful crunch.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family dinners—everyone will be asking for seconds!
– Flexible & Fast: Whip it up in just 27 minutes, making it ideal for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.
– Nutritious & Delicious: Packed with fresh ingredients, this salad is as wholesome as it is tasty.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather the gorgeous ingredients that will make this Strawberry Fields Salad sing! Each component adds an essential layer of flavor and texture, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds.

– 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, crumbled
– 1/2 cup glazed pecans (easy recipe below)
– 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
– 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

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

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

What’s better than a delicious salad? A customizable one! Here are some fun variations to make your Strawberry Fields Salad even more delightful:

– Go Gluten-Free: Simply skip the turkey bacon or use gluten-free options to keep it light and gluten-free!
– Add Extra Protein: Boost your salad with chickpeas or quinoa for a vegetarian twist or swap in grilled shrimp for a seafood flair.
– Make it Spicier: Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing for a zesty kick.
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with a balsamic glaze or yogurt dressing for a different flavor profile.
– Colorful Additions: Toss in avocado slices or sweet bell peppers for extra color and nutrition!

How to Make Strawberry Fields Salad

Ready to create this masterpiece? Follow these simple steps to bring your Strawberry Fields Salad to life!

Step 1: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Gradually drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing is smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Prepare the Glazed Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small saucepan, combine water, sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, and bring to a boil. Toss in the pecans, stirring for about 30 seconds to coat thoroughly. Spread the pecans on a buttered baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes until golden and fragrant. Let cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, toss together the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, dried cranberries, crumbled feta cheese, sliced grilled chicken, turkey bacon, and cooled glazed pecans.

Step 4: Dress and Enjoy

Drizzle your desired amount of dressing over the salad, toss gently to combine, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Fields Salad

– Fresh Ingredients are Key: Use ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor. If they’re in season, you’ll taste the difference!
– Chill the Salad Bowl: For an ultra-refreshing experience, chill your salad bowl in the fridge before tossing your salad.
– Make the Dressing Ahead: This dressing keeps well in the fridge! Make it a day ahead for convenience and let the flavors meld beautifully.
– Mix and Match Greens: Feel free to use your favorite greens—spinach, arugula, or kale work wonderfully too!

How to Serve Strawberry Fields Salad

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh basil or mint leaves on top for an aromatic finish, or add a few extra crumbles of feta for a pop of creaminess.

Side Dishes

Pair your salad with warm, crusty bread or a light soup for a perfect meal combination that will tantalize your taste buds!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in mason jars for a fun picnic treat, or on a gigantic platter for a stunning centerpiece at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Strawberry Fields Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just keep the dressing separate!

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the greens and fruits.

Reheating

Serve it cold for a refreshing taste or let it come to room temperature before enjoying!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Goat cheese or blue cheese would add a delightful twist!

Is this recipe spicy?
Not unless you add the cayenne pepper! It’s usually mild, making it family-friendly.

How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply swap out the turkey bacon for a gluten-free alternative or skip it altogether.

Can I prepare this in advance?
You can prepare the dressing and glazed pecans in advance. Just assemble the salad right before serving for the freshest flavor!

Final Thoughts

There you have it—the ultimate Strawberry Fields Salad that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at! With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table. So grab your ingredients and let’s get tossing—your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy every bite of this refreshing salad that screams sunshine and happiness! 🌟