Watercress Salad With Strawberries And Feta

A refreshing summer salad awaits! Sweet juicy strawberries, tangy feta cheese, and peppery fresh watercress leaves come together in perfect harmony, topped with crunchy nuts for added texture.

This delightful flavor combination is sure to delight your senses and become a new favorite at your next outdoor gathering or picnic.

Ready Time

20 mins

Yields

7 servings

Ingredients

4 cups fresh watercress leaves
1 1/2 pints fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Rinse the fresh watercress leaves and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

In a large bowl, combine the fresh watercress leaves, sliced strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.

Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.

Pour the dressing over the watercress mixture and toss gently to combine.

Sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts over the top of the salad and serve immediately.

Divide the salad among 7 plates and serve chilled.

Notes

For the best flavor, use high-quality balsamic vinegar that’s aged for at least 6 years. Make sure to rinse the watercress leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris, and pat them dry with paper towels to prevent sogginess.

Don’t overdress the salad – the dressing should lightly coat the leaves and not overpower the other flavors.

You can always adjust the amount of honey to your taste, depending on how sweet you like your dressings. If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can reduce the amount of olive oil or substitute it with avocado oil for a different flavor profile.

Also, feel free to substitute the pecans or walnuts with chopped almonds or hazelnuts for added crunch.

For a more substantial salad, consider adding some crumbled grilled chicken or sliced avocado to make it a more filling meal. Finally, assemble the salad just before serving to ensure the freshness and texture of the ingredients.