Watercress Salad with Strawberries and Feta Recipe

This unique and vibrant watercress salad with strawberries and feta is a refreshing blend of flavors and textures. The peppery watercress, sweet strawberries, crunchy almonds, and tangy feta make it a delightful dish perfect for spring or summer. The homemade dressing adds a bright and tangy flavor that ties the salad together beautifully.

Photos of Watercress Salad with Strawberries and Feta Recipe

Most of these ingredients are pretty common and can be found in any supermarket. However, watercress might be a bit harder to find as it's not as common as other leafy greens. It's a peppery, slightly bitter green that pairs nicely with sweet and savory ingredients. It's usually near the lettuce and other salad greens in the produce section. Also, champagne vinegar is a specific type of vinegar that has a light and slightly sweet flavor. If you can't find it, you can substitute with white wine vinegar.

Ingredients for Watercress Salad with Strawberries and Feta

Champagne vinegar: It's used in the dressing and gives a light and slightly sweet flavor.

Lemon juice: Adds tartness to the dressing.

Honey: Sweetens the dressing slightly.

Olive oil: It's the base for the dressing. Choose a good quality one for the best flavor.

Almonds: Adds crunch to the salad. They're toasted to bring out their flavor.

Watercress: The main ingredient of the salad, it has a peppery and slightly bitter flavor.

Mint or basil leaves: They add freshness to the salad. You can choose one or use both.

Strawberries: They add sweetness and color to the salad.

Radishes: They add peppery flavor and a nice crunch.

Persian or English cucumber: It adds crunch and freshness. They're less watery and have fewer seeds than regular cucumbers.

Feta: It's a tangy and salty cheese that adds a lot of flavor to the salad.

One reader, Kirstin Miley says:

This watercress salad with strawberries and feta recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of sweet strawberries, peppery watercress, and tangy feta creates a refreshing and satisfying dish. The almonds add a nice crunch, and the dressing ties everything together perfectly. A definite must-try!

Kirstin Miley

Mastering the Techniques for a Perfect Watercress Salad

Prepare the dressing: Whisk together champagne vinegar, fresh lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Gradually whisk in the olive oil until well combined.

Toast the almonds: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread the almonds on a baking sheet and bake for 7 to 9 minutes until golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.

Assemble the salad: Toss together the watercress, mint or basil leaves, strawberries, radishes, and cucumber with half of the dressing in a salad bowl. Gradually add more dressing to taste until the salad is evenly coated and flavorful.

Top the salad: Sprinkle the salad with crumbled feta and toasted almonds before serving.

How To Make Watercress Salad with Strawberries and Feta

Spring eating has never tasted as fresh and good as this watercress salad with cucumbers, radish, strawberries, and feta tossed in a champagne vinaigrette.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbspchampagne vinegar
1tbspfresh lemon juice
1tsphoney
salt and pepper,to taste
¼cupolive oil

For Salad:

⅓cupalmonds,sliced
1bunchwatercress,,(about 4 cups), any thick stems removed
½cupbasil leaves,or basil leaves, or a combination of both
16ripe strawberries,hulled and halved lengthwise
6radishes,thinly sliced
1Persian cucumber,or English cucumber, thinly sliced
½cupfeta,(4 oz), crumbled

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the almonds on a baking sheet and bake for 7 to 9 minutes, until golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
In a small bowl whisk the vinegar, lemon juice, honey, salt and pepper. Gradually whisk in the oil. Taste and add more honey, salt, or pepper, if you like.
In a salad bowl, toss the watercress, mint and/or basil, strawberries, radishes, and cucumber with half the dressing. Taste and continue adding additional dressing until the salad is evenly coated with dressing and flavorful.
Top with crumbled feta and toasted almonds, and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 182.42kcal
Fat: 15.81g
Saturated Fat: 3.44g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.68g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.08g
Carbohydrates: 7.57g
Fiber: 2.19g
Sugar: 4.16g
Protein: 4.37g
Cholesterol: 11.13mg
Sodium: 279.01mg
Calcium: 119.96mg
Potassium: 239.92mg
Iron: 0.80mg
Vitamin A: 48.78µg
Vitamin C: 31.78mg

Expert Tips for Elevating Your Watercress Salad Game

When toasting almonds, it's crucial to keep a close eye on them as they can easily burn due to their high oil content. The moment they start to turn golden and release a nutty aroma, remove them from the oven. This will ensure they're perfectly toasted and will add a delightful crunch and flavor to your watercress salad.

Time-Saving Hacks for Preparing Watercress Salad

Plan ahead: Prep your ingredients and tools before you start cooking to save time and minimize stress.

Multitask: Look for opportunities to cook multiple components simultaneously, such as chopping vegetables while something is simmering on the stove.

Use convenience products: Consider using pre-washed and pre-cut produce or pre-cooked grains to cut down on prep time.

Clean as you go: Wash dishes and utensils as you cook to avoid a big mess at the end and make cleanup easier.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to streamline the cooking process and prevent unnecessary searching for tools or ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Watercress Salad with Strawberries and Feta Recipe

watercress - Substitute with arugula: Arugula has a similar peppery flavor and a slightly bitter taste, making it a suitable substitute for watercress in salads.
strawberries - Substitute with raspberries: Raspberries offer a similar sweet and slightly tart flavor profile, and their vibrant color can provide a visually appealing alternative to strawberries in the salad.
feta - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a tangy and creamy texture similar to feta, making it a suitable substitute in the salad.

Presenting Watercress Salad with Strawberries and Feta

Elevate the plating: As a chef, it's crucial to focus on the visual appeal of the dish. Arrange the watercress, strawberries, and feta with precision and artistry. The plate should be a canvas, and each ingredient should be placed purposefully to create a visually stunning dish.
Incorporate contrasting colors and textures: Utilize the vibrant red of the strawberries, the deep green of the watercress, and the creamy white of the feta to create a visually striking contrast. Additionally, consider incorporating the crunch of the almonds and the crispness of the radishes to add layers of texture to the dish.
Emphasize balance and harmony: Ensure that the placement of each element on the plate is balanced and harmonious. The goal is to create a visually appealing composition that showcases the beauty of each ingredient while maintaining an overall sense of balance.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space to allow the dish to breathe visually. Avoid overcrowding the plate and allow the natural beauty of the ingredients to shine through.
Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens: Consider adding a delicate touch of edible flowers or microgreens to elevate the presentation further. These subtle additions can add a pop of color and a touch of elegance to the dish, demonstrating attention to detail and sophistication.

Essential Tools for Making a Delightful Watercress Salad

Baking sheet: A flat, metal sheet used for baking and toasting items in the oven.
Salad bowl: A large bowl used for mixing and serving salads.
Small bowl: A smaller-sized bowl used for mixing dressings and sauces.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending and mixing ingredients together.

Fascinating Facts About Watercress, Strawberries, and Feta

Watercress salad with strawberries and feta is a refreshing and nutritious dish. Watercress is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and calcium. It is also known for its high antioxidant content. Strawberries are not only delicious but also packed with vitamin C and fiber. Feta cheese adds a creamy and tangy flavor to the salad, while also providing a good dose of calcium and protein. This salad is not only a delightful combination of flavors but also a powerhouse of nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Budget-Friendly: Making Watercress Salad at Home

This watercress salad with strawberries and feta recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as strawberries, radishes, and cucumber, are generally affordable and readily available. The use of seasonal produce and simple pantry items keeps the cost down. The overall verdict for this recipe would be an 8/10, considering the balance of flavors and nutritional value. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly and delicious option for a healthy meal.

Is This Salad Recipe Healthy or Not?

This watercress salad with strawberries and feta is a nutritious and refreshing dish that offers a variety of health benefits. The salad is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the watercress, strawberries, radishes, and cucumber. Watercress is particularly nutrient-dense, providing vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. The addition of mint or basil leaves adds a burst of flavor and additional antioxidants. The feta cheese provides a good source of protein and calcium, while the almonds contribute healthy fats and vitamin E. The dressing, made with champagne vinegar, lemon juice, honey, and olive oil, is a healthier alternative to creamy, high-calorie dressings.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this salad, consider the following suggestions:

Increase the variety of vegetables by adding cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or carrots for added fiber, vitamins, and minerals
Swap the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative, such as crumbled tofu or cashew cheese, to reduce saturated fat and make the salad vegan-friendly
Use a mix of baby greens, such as spinach or arugula, in addition to the watercress for a wider range of nutrients
Experiment with different nuts and seeds, like walnuts or pumpkin seeds, to provide a variety of healthy fats and textures
Reduce the amount of honey in the dressing or replace it with a low-glycemic alternative, such as monk fruit sweetener, to minimize added sugars

Our Editor's Take on This Refreshing Watercress Salad Recipe

The watercress salad with strawberries and feta is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The crispness of the watercress and radishes, the sweetness of the strawberries, and the creaminess of the feta create a harmonious balance. The dressing with champagne vinegar and honey adds a refreshing and tangy note, while the toasted almonds provide a satisfying crunch. This salad is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and nutty elements, making it a refreshing and satisfying dish for any occasion.

Enhance Your Watercress Salad with Strawberries and Feta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a hint of garlic and lemon zest.

Grilled Peach and Prosciutto Salad: Juicy grilled peaches paired with salty prosciutto and mixed greens, drizzled with a balsamic glaze.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts coated in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, topped with crunchy bacon bits.

Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken Wings: Succulent chicken wings coated in a sticky honey sriracha glaze, perfect for a spicy and sweet kick.

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars: Creamy cheesecake bars swirled with tangy lemon and sweet blueberry, all on a buttery graham cracker crust.

Similar Salad Recipes to Try

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and your favorite herbs. Thread them onto skewers and grill until charred and tender.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Season chicken breasts with a blend of spices, then grill or bake until cooked through. Serve with a refreshing mango salsa made with diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, then add canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, and fresh basil. Simmer until the flavors meld together, then blend until smooth. Stir in cream for a luxurious finish.

Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Watercress Salad

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce: Impress your guests with a perfectly grilled salmon fillet, topped with a tangy and refreshing lemon dill sauce. The combination of the smoky char from the grill and the bright flavors of the sauce will leave everyone wanting more.

Mushroom Risotto with Truffle Oil: Indulge in a creamy and luxurious mushroom risotto, drizzled with aromatic truffle oil. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms and the decadent truffle oil create a dish that is both comforting and elegant.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic evening in.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of a classic strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious layer of creamy cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries. This timeless dessert is sure to impress any crowd.

Why trust this Watercress Salad with Strawberries and Feta Recipe:

This watercress salad with strawberries and feta recipe offers a delightful combination of fresh, vibrant flavors and textures. The use of champagne vinegar and fresh lemon juice in the dressing ensures a bright and tangy taste, while the addition of honey balances the flavors perfectly. The inclusion of toasted almonds adds a satisfying crunch, and the mint or basil leaves contribute a refreshing aroma. With ripe strawberries and crisp radishes adding sweetness and a peppery kick, respectively, this recipe promises a harmonious blend of ingredients that will surely delight the taste buds.

Share your thoughts on the Watercress Salad with Strawberries and Feta Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum. Let's discuss any tweaks or variations you've tried with this refreshing and flavorful salad combination!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of vinegar for the dressing?

Yes, you can use a different type of vinegar such as red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar if you prefer. It will give the dressing a slightly different flavor, but it will still work well with the salad.

Can I substitute the almonds with a different type of nut?

Absolutely! You can substitute the almonds with walnuts, pecans, or pine nuts for a different flavor and texture in the salad. Feel free to use your favorite nut or whatever you have on hand.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing and wash and dry the watercress and herbs ahead of time. However, it's best to assemble the salad with the dressing, strawberries, and feta just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and crisp.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Certainly! If you're not a fan of feta, you can use goat cheese, blue cheese, or even fresh mozzarella to add a creamy and tangy element to the salad. Choose a cheese that you enjoy and that complements the other flavors in the dish.

Can I add protein to make this salad a complete meal?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu would be great additions to make this salad more substantial. You can also add quinoa, chickpeas, or lentils for a vegetarian protein option. Feel free to customize the salad to suit your preferences and dietary needs.