When the sun starts to shine a little brighter and the days grow longer, my cravings automatically turn to fresh, vibrant flavors. That’s when this Refreshing Strawberry Clementine Salad with Red Wine Dressing becomes my go-to dish. Picture this: juicy strawberries and zesty clementines dancing together on a bed of crisp greens, topped off with a tangy and slightly sweet dressing that elevates every bite. It’s the perfect way to showcase the best of summer, whether I’m lounging at a picnic or hosting friends for dinner.

I discovered this delightful blend while trying to reinvent my usual salad routine, aiming for something that’s not just quick to whip up but also bursting with flavor. Trust me; this salad is not just easy to make, it’s a feast for the eyes and the palate. Made with fresh, wholesome ingredients, it’s a healthy option that never compromises on taste—ideal for anyone looking to ditch fast food in favor of homemade goodness. Let’s dive into how to bring this refreshing masterpiece to your table!

Why is Refreshing Strawberry Clementine Salad a Must-Try?

Vibrant colors: This salad is a visual delight, bringing together bright strawberries and clementines that not only please the eye but also elevate your meal’s presentation.

Quick & easy: With minimal prep and only a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a healthy dish ready in no time, making it perfect for busy days or impromptu gatherings.

Bursting flavors: The sweet and tangy combination of fruits, paired with a zesty red wine dressing, creates a refreshing taste that feels like summer in every bite.

Healthy & satisfying: Packed with vitamins and nutrients, this salad is a guilt-free option that leaves you feeling satisfied without weighing you down.

Versatile pairing: Perfect as a stand-alone dish or as a delightful side for grilled meats, it enhances any meal, making it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

For extra summer freshness, consider adding a hint of mint, or serve it alongside other light dishes like a Refreshing Vibrant Salad.

Ingredients for Refreshing Strawberry Clementine Salad

For the Salad
• Strawberries – Adds natural sweetness and juiciness; look for bright red, firm fruits with no white spots.
• Clementines – Provides a refreshing citrus flavor; substitute with oranges if desired.
• Mixed Greens – Offers a crispy texture and balances the sweetness of the fruits.
• Red Onion – Introduces mild sharpness when thinly sliced.
• Feta Cheese – Creamy element that elevates the flavor profile; optional to replace with goat cheese.

For the Dressing
• Red Wine Vinegar – Acidity enhances the salad and brings all flavors together; may substitute with balsamic vinegar.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps emulsify the dressing.
• Honey – Sweetens the dressing; can be substituted with agave syrup.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste; don’t forget to use them for the perfect balance.

This Refreshing Strawberry Clementine Salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or lunch!

How to Make Refreshing Strawberry Clementine Salad

Prepare Ingredients: Start by washing and hulling the strawberries, then peel and segment the clementines. Thinly slice the red onion to add a subtle sharpness to your salad.
Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until fully emulsified. This dressing will bring a zesty flavor to the salad!
Toss Greens: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens and sliced red onion. Lightly toss them together to ensure even distribution.
Incorporate Fruits: Gently fold in the strawberry slices and clementine segments along with crumbled feta cheese, taking care not to mash the fruits.
Dress Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad while tossing lightly to coat all ingredients evenly. The vibrant colors should start to shine!
Serve: Transfer your beautiful salad to a serving platter or individual bowls and enjoy immediately for the freshest flavor.

Optional: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of summer freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Refreshing Strawberry Clementine Salad

Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container without dressing for up to 2 days to keep mixed greens fresh and crisp.

Leftovers: If you have extra fruit leftovers, consume within 1 day to prevent spoilage; enjoy them in smoothies or desserts for an easy treat.

Dressing Storage: Keep the red wine vinegar dressing in a separate jar, refrigerated for up to a week. Shake well before using to re-emulsify.

Freezer: Freezing the salad isn’t recommended, as the texture of the fruits will change upon thawing, compromising freshness and flavor.

What to Serve with Refreshing Strawberry Clementine Salad?

This delightful salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, enhancing your summer dining experience with a burst of freshness.

Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken complements the sweet and zesty notes of the salad, creating a well-rounded meal.
Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds a hearty, wholesome element, perfect for soaking up the salad’s tangy dressing.
Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned shrimp skewers bring a savory touch that pairs wonderfully with the fruity salad, adding a touch of elegance to your table.
Toasted Baguette Slices: Crispy baguette slices with a drizzle of olive oil make for a delightful appetizer, providing a perfect crunch to accompany the freshness of the salad.
Chilled Rosé Wine: A glass of chilled rosé brings a refreshing zing, enhancing the citrusy notes and making your summer meal feel even more festive.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For dessert, serve a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream to contrast the vibrant flavors, creating a sweet ending to your meal that your guests won’t forget.

Expert Tips for Refreshing Strawberry Clementine Salad

• Fresh Ingredients: Choose ripe strawberries and clementines for maximum sweetness. Firm, bright red strawberries and plump clementines make all the difference!

• Dressing on the Side: To maintain texture, dress the salad just before serving. Leftover salad is best stored without dressing to keep the greens crisp.

• Add Some Crunch: For added texture, toss in toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts. They bring a delightful crunch that complements the juicy fruits and mixed greens.

• Flavor Boosts: Want to kick things up a notch? Add fresh herbs like mint or basil to enhance the flavor profile of your Refreshing Strawberry Clementine Salad.

• Customize Cheese: If feta isn’t your favorite, goat cheese or even a vegan option can work beautifully to tailor the salad to your tastes!

Refreshing Strawberry Clementine Salad Variations

Customize this delightful salad to suit your taste buds and elevate your dining experience!

Citrus Swap: Replace clementines with oranges for a sweeter flavor burst that complements the strawberries beautifully.
Nuts Galore: Add toasted almonds or walnuts to bring a satisfying crunch that contrasts the softness of the fruits.
Dairy-Free Option: Omit the feta cheese or replace it with almond or cashew cheese for a creamy texture that fits a vegan diet.
Herbal Infusion: Toss in fresh mint or basil leaves for an aromatic kick that enhances the fresh flavor profile of the salad.
Balsamic Twist: Swap the red wine vinegar for balsamic vinegar—its sweetness will pair wonderfully with the fruit’s tartness.
Heat It Up: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle heat, adding a surprising twist to your refreshing salad.
Fruit Medley: Incorporate other seasonal fruits like blueberries or kiwi for extra color and taste; they’ll add another layer of excitement.
Dressing Variations: Experiment with flavored olive oils like lemon or herb-infused for an unforgettable depth of flavor in your dressing.

These variations allow you to play around with flavors and create a salad that’s uniquely yours!

Refreshing Strawberry Clementine Salad with Red Wine Vinegar Dressing Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting strawberries?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for bright red, firm fruits with no white spots. Ripe strawberries should also emit a sweet fragrance. This ensures that you’re getting the best flavor to complement your salad!

How should I store leftovers of this salad?
To keep your salad fresh, store it in an airtight container without dressing for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. The greens will remain crisp, and you can dress it just before serving. Trust me, this will help retain the vibrant textures!

Can I freeze the salad for later use?
No, freezing the salad isn’t a good idea. The texture of the fruits will change significantly once thawed, making them mushy and unappetizing. Instead, I recommend enjoying it fresh or repurposing any leftover fruits in smoothies or desserts!

What’s the best way to make the dressing ahead of time?
Making the dressing ahead is easy! Just whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper in a jar and refrigerate it. It can be stored for up to a week. Just remember to shake it well to re-emulsify before using!

Are there any allergens I should be aware of in this salad?
Yes! The feta cheese is a potential allergen for those who are lactose intolerant. Opt for goat cheese or skip the cheese altogether for a vegan option. If you have other specific allergies, always check the ingredients’ labels to ensure a safe and delightful meal!

Can I customize the ingredients based on my dietary needs?
Very! This salad is wonderfully versatile. You can swap clementines for oranges or add nuts for crunch. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try using avocado instead of cheese. The more the merrier with varieties and flavors, depending on your preferences!