Fresh Strawberry Arugula Salad with Balsamic Glaze
A quick and easy fresh strawberry arugula salad featuring sweet strawberries, peppery arugula, creamy goat cheese, toasted pecans, and a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light meal or side dish that celebrates simple, fresh flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 4 cups arugula, washed and dried
- ½ cup crumbled goat cheese
- ½ cup toasted pecans
- 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse and hull about 1 pound of fresh strawberries. Slice them into halves or quarters depending on size. Set aside.
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast ½ cup pecans for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Wash and dry 4 cups of fresh arugula leaves. Tear any large leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large salad bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, and 1 teaspoon honey (optional). Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as desired.
- Add the sliced strawberries, toasted pecans, and ½ cup crumbled goat cheese to the arugula. Drizzle the dressing over the top. Gently toss everything together until well coated but not crushed.
- Taste the salad and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately for the freshest texture and flavor.
Notes
Use ripe but firm strawberries to avoid mushy texture. Toast nuts carefully to enhance crunch and flavor. Toss salad gently to prevent bruising. Serve immediately for best texture. For vegan version, substitute goat cheese with dairy-free alternative and use vegan balsamic glaze. Store components separately if making ahead.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad bowl serving
- Calories: 180220
- Sugar: 1012
- Sodium: 150200
- Fat: 1215
- Saturated Fat: 23
- Carbohydrates: 1520
- Fiber: 34
- Protein: 57
Keywords: strawberry salad, arugula salad, balsamic glaze, healthy salad, easy salad, summer salad, quick salad, fresh salad