Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is bursting with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The balance of sweet, salty, and tangy makes every bite exciting. The candied pecans provide a crunchy, sweet contrast to the creamy feta dressing, while the avocado adds richness. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a healthy, flavorful meal, this salad is a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Candied Pecans:

1 cup raw pecans
1 tablespoon salted butter
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Salad:

6 cups mixed greens/arugula
2 cups sliced strawberries
1-2 avocados, sliced
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons honey
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Feta Dressing:

1/3 cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, chopped
1/3 cup fresh chopped basil
1/4 cup fresh chopped chives
3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Directions

Make the Candied Pecans: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the pecans, maple syrup (or honey), and cayenne pepper. Stir occasionally until the pecans are coated and the syrup thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens/arugula, sliced strawberries, and avocado slices.
Make the Feta Dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine the buttermilk, lemon juice, garlic, basil, chives, and crumbled feta cheese. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Salad: Drizzle the olive oil, lemon juice, and honey over the salad. Toss gently to combine. Add the candied pecans and pour the feta dressing over the top. Toss again until everything is evenly coated.
Serve: Divide the salad into individual portions and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Nuts: Swap out the candied pecans for other nuts like candied walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.
Cheese: If you’re not a fan of feta, try goat cheese or blue cheese for a unique twist.
Dressing: For a creamier dressing, add a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt to the feta dressing mixture.
Fruit: Add additional fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even apples for more variety and color.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately to maintain their freshness. The salad (without dressing) can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The candied pecans should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Dressing: The feta dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to stir or shake well before using it again.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-candied pecans?

Yes, you can use pre-candied pecans if you’re short on time. However, making your own adds a fresh and customizable flavor.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and dress the salad just before serving to avoid wilting the greens.

3. Can I use a different type of greens?

Yes, feel free to substitute arugula or mixed greens with spinach, kale, or a spring mix, depending on your preferences.

4. Can I use a different dressing?

Yes, you can replace the feta dressing with a balsamic vinaigrette, honey mustard, or any dressing of your choice.

5. Can I add chicken or other proteins?

Absolutely! Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu would make this salad more substantial for a complete meal.

6. How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

To prevent the avocado from browning, try tossing it with a little lemon juice before adding it to the salad.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check that your pecans and maple syrup are free from any gluten-containing additives.

8. Can I use a different sweetener for the candied pecans?

Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or even coconut sugar, depending on your preferences.

9. How can I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese and substitute with a vegan feta alternative or skip the cheese entirely.

10. Can I freeze the candied pecans?

Candied pecans can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly once thawed. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Feta Salad with Candied Pecans is a vibrant, refreshing, and easy-to-make dish that combines a wonderful balance of flavors. The sweet and spicy pecans, creamy avocado, and tangy feta dressing make for a perfect combination. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a side dish, this salad will surely impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.