Gingham Estate Fresh Strawberry Salad
Gingham Estate Fresh Strawberry Salad Recipe
Introduction
Gingham Estate Fresh Strawberry Salad is a delightful and refreshing salad that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the crispness of red leaf lettuce. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.
History
This recipe was inspired by the abundance of fresh strawberries available at Gingham Estate, a local farm known for its delicious produce. The combination of strawberries, lettuce, and a tangy dressing has been a favorite among visitors to the farm for years.
Ingredients
- 4 cups red leaf lettuce
- 2 cups fresh strawberries
- 2 kiwi fruit
- 0.25 cup honey
- 0.25 cup tarragon vinegar
- 0.25 cup salad oil
- 0.5 tsp dill weed
How to prepare
- Wash and dry the leaf lettuce, then tear it into pieces.
- Wash, hull, and quarter the strawberries.
- Peel and slice the kiwi, then gently toss all the ingredients in a bowl.
- Combine honey, vinegar, oil, and dill in a separate container, then shake until well mixed.
- Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients.
Variations
- Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy texture.
- Substitute balsamic vinegar for the tarragon vinegar for a different flavor profile.
- Top the salad with toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to wash and dry the lettuce thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- For the best flavor, use ripe strawberries that are in season.
- The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Feel free to add other fruits or nuts to the salad for extra flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This salad can be served as a light lunch or as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a fruity iced tea.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to toss the salad gently to avoid crushing the strawberries.
- The dressing can be made in a blender for a smoother consistency.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar in place of tarragon vinegar.
- Olive oil or avocado oil can be used instead of salad oil.
Make Ahead Tips
The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The salad ingredients can be prepared and stored separately, then combined just before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for an extra touch of elegance.
Pairing Recommendations
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp. It also goes well with a glass of sparkling water or a fruity cocktail.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dressing may separate, so be sure to shake it well before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 210
Carbohydrates
Total Carbohydrates: 22g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 15g
Fats
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Proteins
Protein: 2g
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin A: 90%
Vitamin C: 120%
Calcium: 6%
Iron: 8%
Alergens
This recipe contains honey and may not be suitable for individuals with a honey allergy.
Summary
This salad is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. It is relatively low in calories and fat, making it a healthy choice for a light meal or side dish.
Summary
Gingham Estate Fresh Strawberry Salad is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer meal. With its combination of fresh strawberries, lettuce, and a tangy dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Gingham Estate Fresh Strawberry Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to take a leisurely stroll through the countryside. As I walked past the vibrant green fields and colorful flowers, I noticed a quaint little farm tucked away in the distance. Intrigued, I made my way over to the farm and was greeted by a lovely elderly woman who welcomed me with a warm smile.
As we chatted, she mentioned that she had a special recipe for a strawberry salad that had been passed down through generations in her family. I was immediately intrigued and asked if she would be willing to share the recipe with me. To my delight, she agreed and invited me into her cozy kitchen.
The kitchen was filled with the sweet aroma of freshly picked strawberries and the sound of birds chirping outside the window. The woman handed me a gingham apron and guided me through the steps of making the salad. We started by washing and slicing the fresh strawberries, tossing them in a bowl with some sugar and a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Next, we added in some crisp lettuce, chopped pecans, and a handful of fresh mint leaves. The combination of flavors and textures was simply divine. As we mixed everything together, the colors of the salad came alive, creating a beautiful display of red, green, and brown.
As we sat down to enjoy the salad together, the woman shared with me the story behind the recipe. She explained that the salad had been a staple at family gatherings on their estate for as long as she could remember. The strawberries were grown in their own garden, and the other ingredients were sourced from local farmers and artisans.
She reminisced about summers spent picnicking on the lush grounds of the estate, surrounded by fields of flowers and the laughter of loved ones. The salad had always been a symbol of joy and togetherness, a celebration of the simple pleasures in life.
As I savored each bite of the salad, I could taste the love and tradition that had been infused into every ingredient. The flavors were bright and fresh, with a hint of nostalgia that warmed my heart. I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire, a reminder of the beauty and simplicity of homemade food.
As I said goodbye to the woman and thanked her for sharing her family recipe with me, I felt grateful for the chance encounter that had led me to this delicious salad. It was a reminder that the best recipes are not found in cookbooks or magazines, but in the stories and traditions that are passed down from generation to generation.
And so, whenever I make the Gingham Estate Fresh Strawberry Salad, I am transported back to that sunny day in the countryside, surrounded by fields of strawberries and the laughter of new friends. It is a dish that brings me joy and connection, a taste of the past that will always hold a special place in my heart.
Categories
| Cathy's Recipes | Fruit Salad Recipes | Honey Recipes | Kiwi Recipes | Red-leaf Lettuce Recipes | Strawberry Recipes |