Strawberry and Ricotta Cheese Salad
A Refreshing and Light Strawberry Salad for a Healthy Start to the New Year
Embrace the new year with a vibrant and healthy strawberry salad! This recipe balances crisp textures with creamy ricotta and sweet strawberries, making it a delightful and light meal option. Perfect for a fresh start to your diet or as an elegant brunch dish.
Strawberry Salad Essentials- 1/2 head of fresh lettuce (torn into bite-sized pieces)
- 5 ripe strawberries (hulled and washed)
- Approx. 100g ricotta cheese (or to taste)
- 2 sprigs fresh dill (for garnish)
- 3-4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (generously)
- 1-2 tbsp balsamic glaze (thick, reduced balsamic vinegar)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by thoroughly washing the fresh strawberries under cold running water. After washing, gently pat them dry with a paper towel or a clean kitchen cloth to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
Step 2
Next, wash the crisp lettuce leaves in cold water. Shake off any excess water or use a salad spinner to ensure the lettuce is as dry as possible. Dry lettuce allows the dressing to adhere better and prevents sogginess.
Step 3
Rinse the fresh dill sprigs under cold water and gently pat them dry. Dill adds a wonderful aromatic touch that elevates the overall flavor profile of the salad.
Step 4
Arrange the dry lettuce leaves attractively on your serving plate or in a salad bowl. This forms the refreshing base of your salad.
Step 5
Slice the hulled and dried strawberries into your desired bite-sized pieces (usually halves or quarters). Avoid making them too small to maintain their texture. Distribute the strawberry slices evenly over the bed of lettuce.
Step 6
Gently spoon dollops of creamy ricotta cheese over the salad. You can use a tablespoon or a small scoop for this. Try not to over-handle the cheese to keep its lovely soft texture intact.
Step 7
Finally, pluck the feathery leaves from the dill sprigs and sprinkle them delicately over the salad. The dill’s fresh aroma will add a beautiful finishing touch.
Step 8
Now, it’s time for the dressing. Drizzle a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil over the entire salad. The healthy richness of the olive oil complements the fresh ingredients perfectly.
Step 9
For a touch of sweetness and acidity, carefully drizzle the thick balsamic glaze over the strawberries and ricotta cheese. A little goes a long way, so add it sparingly to avoid making the salad too tart.
Step 10
And there you have it – a visually stunning and delicious Strawberry Ricotta Cheese Salad, ready to be enjoyed!
Step 11
Savor the delightful combination of crunchy lettuce, creamy ricotta, and sweet, tangy strawberries. This salad is a perfect, healthy choice for a New Year’s resolution, a light meal, or a charming brunch!
