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Easy No-Mixer Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad Recipe with Brown Sugar Glaze for Perfect Summer Meals

strawberry goat cheese salad - featured image

A fresh and indulgent summer salad combining juicy strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and a sweet brown sugar glaze. Quick and easy to prepare without any mixers, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
  • 4 cups baby spinach or mixed greens
  • 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional add-ins: toasted pecans or walnuts, fresh basil or mint

Instructions

  1. Rinse about 2 cups of fresh strawberries under cold water. Hull and slice them into halves or quarters depending on size (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine 2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons light brown sugar. Stir gently until melted and bubbling slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon honey (if using). The glaze should be smooth and glossy.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, add 4 cups baby spinach or mixed greens. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
  5. Add sliced strawberries and 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese to the greens. Gently toss to mix without breaking up the cheese too much.
  6. Slowly drizzle the warm brown sugar glaze over the salad. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all leaves and berries.
  7. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  8. If desired, sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts and fresh mint or basil leaves on top.
  9. Serve immediately to keep greens crisp and glaze sticky.

Notes

Use room temperature butter for a smoother glaze. Dry greens thoroughly to prevent sogginess. Rewarm glaze gently if it thickens before tossing. Serve immediately for best texture. Can substitute goat cheese with vegan cream cheese for dairy-free option. Store leftovers covered in fridge up to 1 day; toss before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry salad, goat cheese salad, brown sugar glaze, summer salad, no-mixer salad, easy salad recipe, fresh strawberry salad