Cherry salad? Yes, you read that right! This delightful combination of sweet, tart, and savory flavors will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a seasoned salad enthusiast or a kitchen newbie, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating a refreshing and delicious cherry salad that’s perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a satisfying snack.

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Cherry Salad: A Burst of Summer in Every Bite

There’s something magical about the arrival of cherry season. The vibrant colors and juicy sweetness just scream summer. And what better way to showcase these delightful fruits than in a salad? Forget your usual leafy greens for a moment and let’s explore the wonderful world of cherry salad. It’s surprisingly versatile, pairing well with various cheeses, nuts, and vinaigrettes. Trust me, once you try a well-made cherry salad, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been incorporating this summer gem into your meals more often!

Gather Your Ingredients for Cherry Salad Success

Here’s what you’ll need to create your own bowl of cherry goodness:

Fresh cherries: You’ll need about 2 cups of pitted and halved cherries. Opt for sweet cherries like Bing or Rainier for the best flavor.
Mixed greens: A handful of fresh spinach or a spring mix adds a nice peppery bite.
Feta cheese: 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese provides a tangy and salty contrast. You can also substitute goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Slivered almonds: 1/4 cup adds a satisfying crunch. Feel free to experiment with other nuts like pecans or walnuts.
Red onion: Thinly sliced, about 1/4 cup, adds a bit of sharpness.

For the Cherry Salad Dressing:

Olive oil: 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil forms the base of our dressing.
Balsamic vinegar: 1 tablespoon adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.
Honey: 1 teaspoon enhances the sweetness and helps balance the flavors.
Dijon mustard: 1/2 teaspoon adds a subtle kick.
Salt and pepper: To taste

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowl: For mixing the salad.
Small bowl or jar: For whisking the dressing.
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Pitting tool (optional but helpful): For removing cherry pits quickly.

Let’s Make Cherry Salad!

Prepare the cherries: Wash and pit the cherries. If you don’t have a pitting tool, you can use a chopstick to push the pits out. Halve the cherries.
Make the dressing: In your small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, feta cheese, slivered almonds, and red onion.
Add the cherries: Gently fold in the halved cherries.
Dress and serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad right before serving and toss to combine.

Tips for the Best Cherry Salad

Taste and adjust: Everyone’s palate is different! Feel free to adjust the amount of dressing ingredients to your liking.
Don’t overdress: Add the dressing gradually and toss gently to avoid a soggy salad.
Add a protein boost: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu make a delicious and satisfying addition.
Get creative with toppings: Toasted pecans, crumbled goat cheese, or even a sprinkle of dried cranberries can add extra flavor and texture.

Article by Family Cuisine

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