If you are searching for a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and herbaceous flavors, the Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Fresh Basil and Balsamic Dressing Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful salad bursts with the juiciness of ripe strawberries, the cool crunch of cucumber, and the aromatic punch of fresh basil, all tied together by a luscious balsamic dressing. It’s an effortless way to brighten up any meal or serve as a light, nourishing snack that feels like sunshine on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients are what make this salad shine, each bringing their unique flair to the mix. From the sweet berries to the crisp cucumber and fragrant basil, every component adds a crucial note to the harmony of flavors and textures.
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: Choose ripe, juicy berries for natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced: Adds refreshing crunch and coolness to balance the sweetness.
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional): Offers a mild sharpness that contrasts beautifully with the berries.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn: Brings herbaceous freshness and aromatic depth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides smooth richness that melds the dressing ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Delivers tangy sweetness that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional): A touch of extra sweetness if your strawberries aren’t quite as sweet.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances and balances all the flavors perfectly.
- Crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese (optional, for topping): Adds creamy saltiness and a luxurious texture.
- Toasted almonds or walnuts (optional, for crunch): Introduces an earthy crunch that elevates every bite.
How to Make Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Fresh Basil and Balsamic Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing your strawberries thoroughly, then hull and slice them evenly to ensure each bite is juicy and sweet. Next, slice your cucumber into thin rounds that offer a satisfying crunch without overwhelming the salad. If you love a little bite, thinly slice the red onion to introduce subtle sharpness. Finally, tear the fresh basil leaves by hand — tearing instead of chopping preserves their vibrant aroma and prevents bitterness.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey if you’re using it. Whisk these together until the mixture looks smooth and well combined, then season generously with salt and freshly ground pepper. This simple dressing is the heart of the strawberry cucumber salad with fresh basil and balsamic dressing recipe, enhancing every ingredient with a sweet and tangy elegance.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In your largest bowl, gently toss the sliced strawberries, cucumbers, red onion, and torn basil. Pour the dressing over everything, then carefully toss again to ensure every piece is luxuriously coated without bruising the fragile berries. This step is where the magic really happens — the flavors start to meld, and the salad’s beauty becomes truly apparent.
Step 4: Serve
For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese on top and scatter toasted almonds or walnuts for a delightful crunch. Serve immediately for a burst of fresh flavors or chill it for 15 to 20 minutes if you want it super refreshing on a warm day. Either way, this salad shines as a light, delicious dish everyone will rave about.
How to Serve Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Fresh Basil and Balsamic Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of crumbled cheese and toasted nuts is a game-changer, introducing creamy and crunchy textures that contrast beautifully with the juicy fruit and crisp vegetables. A few extra fresh basil leaves on top further enhance the salad’s inviting aroma just before serving.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it an ideal side for summer barbecues or light dinners. You can also serve it alongside a crusty baguette or a simple quinoa dish for a complete meal that is both nourishing and exciting to the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the salad in a clear glass bowl to showcase the vivid reds and greens, or serve portions in individual cups garnished with basil sprigs for an elegant appetizer at your next gathering. This eye-catching presentation will surely impress your guests and invite them to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your strawberry cucumber salad with fresh basil and balsamic dressing recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep nuts and cheese separate if possible, adding them just before serving to maintain their texture.
Freezing
This particular salad is best enjoyed fresh since freezing would compromise the texture of strawberries and cucumbers. Freezing is not recommended for the preservation of its fresh, crisp qualities.
Reheating
Because this salad is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature, reheating is unnecessary. If it’s taken straight from the fridge, simply let it sit on the counter for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to open up.
FAQs
Can I substitute the basil with another herb?
Absolutely! While basil imparts a unique aroma and flavor, fresh mint or cilantro can offer pleasant alternative herbaceous notes that complement strawberry and cucumber beautifully.
Is it okay to omit the red onion?
Yes, the red onion is optional. The salad remains delicious without it, though the onion adds a subtle sharpness that some find enhances the overall flavor balance.
How long does this salad stay fresh?
For the best taste and texture, consume the salad within a day of preparation. If properly stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it will stay fresh for up to 24 hours.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the balsamic dressing a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just give it a quick shake or whisk before drizzling over the salad.
What type of balsamic vinegar works best?
Use a good-quality aged balsamic vinegar for rich flavor, but any regular balsamic vinegar will work well too. The aged varieties offer a sweeter, more complex taste that enhances the dressing beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Fresh Basil and Balsamic Dressing Recipe that makes it a go-to dish for any season. Its combination of fresh ingredients, simple preparation, and beautiful flavors creates a memorable experience every time. I encourage you to try making this salad soon and watch it become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.
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Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Fresh Basil and Balsamic Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light and refreshing Strawberry Cucumber Salad featuring juicy strawberries, crisp cucumber, fresh basil, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. This easy no-cook recipe can be enjoyed as a side dish or a healthy snack, with optional toppings like crumbled feta and toasted nuts for added flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings (Optional)
- Crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- Toasted almonds or walnuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and hull the strawberries, then slice them. Slice the cucumber and red onion if using. Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces for easy mixing.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey if using, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, cucumber, red onion, and torn basil. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Optionally sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese and toasted almonds or walnuts on top for added flavor and crunch. Serve the salad immediately, or chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to enhance its refreshing taste.
Notes
- You can omit the red onion if you prefer a milder flavor or if you have sensitivity to onions.
- Honey in the dressing is optional; omit for a less sweet and more tangy salad.
- Use toasted nuts to add crunch and a nutty flavor, but skip for a nut-free version.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
- For a vegan version, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
