Strawberry Fields Salad

Recipe By:

Juliette

Posted:

June 22, 2025

Updated:

June 22, 2025

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Strawberry Fields Salad is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with savory elements like feta cheese and Turkey Bacon. This salad is perfect for spring gatherings, picnics, or as a light meal any time of year. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Flavor: The mix of juicy strawberries, tangy feta, and sweet dressing creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, this salad comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Dish: Whether you serve it as a side or main course, this salad fits perfectly into any occasion—be it a lunch, dinner, or festive event.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh produce and lean protein from chicken and Turkey Bacon, this salad is both satisfying and healthy.
Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences; add nuts or replace the dressing to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, let’s gather the essential tools you’ll need to create the Strawberry Fields Salad efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large salad bowl
Whisk
Baking sheet
Small saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

Large salad bowl: This allows ample space for tossing all the ingredients together without making a mess.
Whisk: A whisk ensures that your dressing ingredients blend smoothly for a consistent flavor throughout the salad.
Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting glazed pecans evenly in the oven.
Small saucepan: Ideal for preparing the pecans by boiling them before baking.

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.

Ingredients:
– 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
– 1/2 cup glazed pecans (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

For 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

In a mixing bowl, combine all dressing ingredients except oil. Gradually whisk in the oil until well blended. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Glazed Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a small saucepan, bring water, white sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to a boil. Add pecans and stir for about 30 seconds until coated. Transfer pecans to a greased baking sheet. Bake them for approximately 12–14 minutes until golden brown.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, toss together mixed greens, sliced strawberries, red onion, dried cranberries, feta cheese crumbles, sliced grilled chicken breasts, crumbled Turkey Bacon, and glazed pecans.

Step 4: Dress Your Salad

Drizzle your desired amount of dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently until everything is well coated in the dressing.

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Fields Salad!

How to Serve Strawberry Fields Salad

Serving Strawberry Fields Salad can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive gathering. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delightful salad.

Pair with Grilled Proteins

Grilled Chicken: The flavors of the grilled chicken complement the sweetness of the strawberries perfectly.
Steak: Sliced steak adds a rich, savory element that balances the salad’s freshness.
Shrimp: Grilled shrimp brings a seafood twist that pairs wonderfully with the fruity dressing.

Add Extra Crunch

Croutons: Homemade croutons provide a satisfying crunch that enhances the texture of the salad.
Tortilla Chips: Crushed tortilla chips add a unique twist and extra flavor to each bite.

Serve as a Side Dish

Family Dinners: This salad makes an excellent side dish for any main course, adding vibrant colors and flavors to your table.
Picnics: Pack it in a portable container for a refreshing meal outdoors.

How to Perfect Strawberry Fields Salad

Perfecting your Strawberry Fields Salad ensures every bite is bursting with flavor and texture. Here are some tips to make it even better.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest strawberries and greens to maximize flavor and nutrition.
Customize Your Greens: Experiment with different greens like arugula or spinach for added taste and nutrients.
Make Ahead of Time: Prepare the dressing and pecans in advance to save time on busy days.
Balance Sweetness: Adjust the honey in your dressing based on how sweet your strawberries are for perfect harmony.
Garnish Thoughtfully: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint can enhance freshness and visual appeal.
Serve Chilled: Allow the salad to chill before serving for a refreshing experience, especially on warm days.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Fields Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Fields Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these delicious options:

Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery loaf complements the freshness of the salad beautifully.
Quinoa Pilaf: This nutritious option adds protein and pairs well with the salad’s flavors.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and earthiness that balance the sweetness of strawberries.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers variety and richness alongside your vibrant salad.
Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers echo the strawberry theme while adding more color to your plate.
Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites make an excellent companion, adding depth to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Strawberry Fields Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the overall flavor and presentation. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

Using stale ingredients: Freshness is key in a salad. Always check the expiry dates on your greens, fruits, and cheeses to ensure maximum flavor.
Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed for balance.
Ignoring texture: A good salad has a mix of textures. Avoid using only soft ingredients; include crunchy elements like glazed pecans or crispy Turkey Bacon for variety.
Cutting fruits improperly: Slice strawberries evenly for uniformity. Uneven pieces can lead to an unappealing presentation and inconsistent flavor in each bite.
Not seasoning properly: A little salt and pepper can elevate the dish. Don’t skip this step; lightly season each layer as you build the salad for enhanced taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
Keep dressing separate until ready to eat to avoid sogginess.

Freezing Strawberry Fields Salad

Freezing is not recommended due to the fresh ingredients.
If necessary, freeze grilled chicken separately, wrapped tightly.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to use.

Reheating Strawberry Fields Salad

Oven: Preheat to 350°F, spread chicken on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize the Strawberry Fields Salad?

You can definitely customize this salad! Add or substitute your favorite nuts, fruits, or proteins based on your preference.

How do I make the dressing ahead of time?

To save time, prepare the dressing up to one week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator before using it.

What can I use instead of Turkey Bacon?

If you prefer a different protein, try using regular turkey bacon or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Is Strawberry Fields Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is great for meal prep as long as you store the dressing separately until serving.

What other fruits can I add?

Besides strawberries, consider adding blueberries or raspberries for additional sweetness and color!

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Fields Salad is not just vibrant but also versatile. Its combination of flavors makes it perfect for any occasion—from summer picnics to dinner parties. Feel free to customize it with seasonal fruits or different proteins to suit your taste. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!