When it comes to a perfect salad for the warmer months, few combinations can rival the vibrant, fresh, and indulgent Strawberry, Basil, Arugula & Brie Salad. This salad strikes the perfect balance between peppery arugula, sweet strawberries, creamy brie, and fresh basil, making it an ideal choice for spring or summer gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, picnic, or simply enjoying a light meal, this salad is sure to impress with its delightful blend of textures and flavors.
In this article, we will dive deep into the origins of this salad, provide you with all the ingredients and preparation steps, and offer some variations and tips to make it your own. Plus, we’ve included some frequently asked questions (FAQs) to ensure you get the most out of this delicious recipe.
What is the Strawberry, Basil, Arugula & Brie Salad?
The Strawberry, Basil, Arugula & Brie Salad is a refreshing and slightly indulgent salad that combines fresh arugula, juicy strawberries, creamy brie, and fragrant basil. These ingredients come together to create a delightful balance of flavors, making it the perfect dish for any occasion, especially during spring and summer when fresh fruits and vegetables are at their peak.
The strawberries provide a natural sweetness that complements the peppery bite of the arugula, while the brie cheese adds a rich, creamy texture. The basil adds an aromatic, slightly peppery note that ties everything together. The optional addition of candied pecans or toasted seeds provides a delightful crunch, making each bite even more satisfying.
Origin of the Strawberry, Basil, Arugula & Brie Salad
This salad is a modern twist on the classic arugula salad, which has long been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. The use of strawberries as the main fruit is relatively new but has quickly gained popularity due to the fruit’s versatility and ability to pair well with both savory and sweet ingredients. Brie cheese, known for its creamy texture and mild flavor, is often used in salads to add richness without overpowering the other ingredients.
Though it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact origin of this specific salad, the combination of arugula, berries, and cheese is a nod to fresh, seasonal eating, often seen in European-inspired salads and dishes. The addition of balsamic vinaigrette further elevates the flavors, bringing a tangy and slightly sweet contrast to the salad.
Ingredients for Strawberry, Basil, Arugula & Brie Salad
This recipe serves 2 to 4 people and comes together in just 10–15 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for any meal. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh arugula (or mixed baby greens)
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chiffonade
- 4 oz brie cheese, cut into small cubes or thin slices
- ¼ cup candied pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
- 2 tbsp toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds (optional)
For the Dressing (Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette):
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Here’s how you can put it all together:
1. Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.
- Taste and adjust the sweetness or acidity to suit your preferences. You can add more honey if you prefer a sweeter dressing or more vinegar for extra tang.
2. Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the arugula, sliced strawberries, and torn basil leaves.
- Add the brie cubes and optional candied pecans or toasted seeds.
- Drizzle the salad with the freshly made vinaigrette. Gently toss the ingredients together to coat evenly, taking care not to crush the delicate brie cheese.
3. Serve:
- Serve the salad immediately for the best flavor and texture.
- Optionally, garnish with a few whole basil leaves or extra sliced strawberries on top for an added touch of color and freshness.
Serving Ideas
This Strawberry, Basil, Arugula & Brie Salad is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
- Starter or Side Salad: It pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken, salmon, or shrimp. The freshness of the salad balances out the richness of these dishes, making it an excellent accompaniment.
- Light Lunch: Enjoy it as a stand-alone dish with a slice of crusty bread for a satisfying yet light meal.
- Brunch or Special Occasion: This salad is perfect for brunch or festive occasions when paired with a glass of sparkling wine or rosé. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors are sure to be a hit.
Tips & Variations
There are many ways to customize this salad to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:
Cheese Swap:
If brie isn’t available or you want to try something different, goat cheese or camembert work wonderfully in this salad, adding a tangy and creamy element.
Fruit Twist:
While strawberries are the star of this recipe, you can easily mix things up by adding other fruits. Try raspberries, blueberries, or sliced peaches for a different flavor profile.
Vegan Option:
For a vegan version, simply skip the cheese and use roasted nuts (such as almonds or cashews) or avocado slices for added creaminess and texture.
Make-Ahead:
To make the salad ahead of time, prepare the ingredients but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This will prevent the salad from becoming soggy, ensuring it stays crisp and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use a different green in place of arugula?
Yes! While arugula adds a peppery flavor, you can substitute it with other greens like spinach, baby kale, or mixed greens depending on your preference.
How do I store leftovers?
If you have leftover salad, store the ingredients separately. The greens, strawberries, and brie can last in the fridge for up to 2 days, but the dressing should be kept separate to avoid wilting the salad.
Can I make the dressing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Be sure to give it a good shake or whisk before using.
Conclusion
The Strawberry, Basil, Arugula & Brie Salad is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that balances peppery, sweet, and creamy flavors in every bite. Whether you enjoy it as a side salad, light lunch, or special treat for gatherings, this dish is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and a quick preparation time, you can enjoy a refreshing, satisfying salad that brings out the best of spring and summer produce. Experiment with different variations to make it your own, and don’t forget to pair it with your favorite wine for the perfect meal.
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Strawberry, Basil, Arugula & Brie Salad: A Refreshing and Flavorful Delight
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The Strawberry, Basil, Arugula & Brie Salad is a refreshing and slightly indulgent salad that combines fresh arugula, juicy strawberries, creamy brie, and fragrant basil. These ingredients come together to create a delightful balance of flavors, making it the perfect dish for any occasion, especially during spring and summer when fresh fruits and vegetables are at their peak.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
4 cups fresh arugula (or mixed baby greens)
1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chiffonade
4 oz brie cheese, cut into small cubes or thin slices
¼ cup candied pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
2 tbsp toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds (optional)
For the Dressing (Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette):
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
½ tsp Dijon mustard
Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.
Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as desired.
2. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine arugula, sliced strawberries, and torn basil leaves.
Add brie cubes and nuts/seeds if using.
Drizzle with vinaigrette and gently toss to coat evenly — avoid crushing the brie.
3. Serve
Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Optional: garnish with a few whole basil leaves or extra sliced strawberries on top for presentation.
Notes
For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle a balsamic reduction over the salad and sprinkle with candied pecans or sliced almonds. This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or can be enjoyed on its own as a light, refreshing meal.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed / No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1½ cups)
- Calories: 250
Keywords: Strawberry Arugula Salad, Basil Brie Salad
