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This vibrant salad brings together sweet juicy strawberries crisp romaine smoky bacon and creamy blue cheese for a flavor packed dish that is just as good for a quick lunch as it is for entertaining guests at a brunch or holiday gathering
I first tossed this together for a spring baby shower and it disappeared before anything else on the table now it is a staple for all our warm weather get togethers
Ingredients
- Romaine lettuce: fresh crisp base that holds up to juicy toppings look for vibrant green leaves
- Fresh strawberries: adds natural sweetness and a burst of color choose deeply red ripe berries
- Bacon: cooked and crumbled gives smoky crunch make sure it is crispy not soft
- Blue cheese: offers tangy creamy richness opt for good quality crumbles or a wedge you crumble yourself
- Pecans: chopped adds buttery crunch and nutty depth to balance the sweetness
- Extra virgin olive oil: smooth base for the vinaigrette use a fruity robust variety
- Balsamic vinegar: gives the dressing its signature tang and slight sweetness go for aged if possible
- Honey: softens the acidity of the vinegar and pairs beautifully with strawberries
- Dijon mustard: brings just enough bite to balance the sweetness pick a smooth style not grainy
- Salt and black pepper: season the dressing to taste use freshly ground pepper for best flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Dressing:
- Combine olive oil balsamic vinegar honey and dijon mustard in a jar or bowl whisk until fully blended or shake with a tight lid until emulsified then season with salt and pepper to taste
- Prep the Ingredients:
- Wash and chop romaine lettuce slice strawberries cook bacon until crisp then chop crumble the blue cheese and chop the pecans
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl add romaine strawberries bacon pecans and blue cheese drizzle with desired amount of vinaigrette
- Toss and Serve:
- Gently toss everything together until evenly coated serve immediately while crisp and fresh
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Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container without dressing for up to one day once dressed the salad wilts quickly so toss only what you plan to eat Keep dressing in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to five days just shake before using again
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap blue cheese with feta or goat cheese for a milder flavor Use walnuts or sliced almonds instead of pecans depending on what you have Avocado red onion or chickpeas make excellent additions for a heartier meal
Serving Suggestions
Pair with grilled chicken or salmon to make it a full dinner Serve alongside baked macaroni and cheese or corn fritters for contrast in textures Try it as a starter for a brunch spread or light summer dinner
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Cultural and Historical Context
Fruit and bacon pairings have been around in American cuisine for decades balancing sweet and savory elements The use of balsamic vinaigrette gives a nod to Mediterranean salads but this is firmly rooted in classic American summer fare
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → What kind of strawberries work best?
Use ripe, juicy strawberries for the most flavor and vibrant color. Fresh local berries are ideal when in season.
- → Can I use a different cheese than blue cheese?
Yes. Feta or goat cheese are great alternatives that offer a tangy contrast without the boldness of blue cheese.
- → Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance, but assemble and dress the salad just before serving to keep everything crisp.
- → What protein can I add to make it a full meal?
Grilled chicken or salmon are perfect additions. Hard-boiled eggs or chickpeas also add protein and texture.
- → Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?
Yes. Walnuts or sliced almonds work well and add a nice crunch and nutty flavor to the salad.
- → How long does the vinaigrette last?
Store the honey balsamic vinaigrette in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake well before using.