Strawberry Fields Salad from TGI Friday's features fresh strawberries, mixed greens, candied pecans, red onions, and feta cheese, tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, offering a colorful and refreshing blend of sweet, crunchy, and savory flavors.
Equipments
- Salad bowl
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Salad spinner
- Mixing bowl
- Salad tongs or serving utensils
- Small bowl (for vinaigrette)
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 5 oz (140g) mixed greens
- 1 cup fresh strawberries
- 1/3 cup candied pecans
- 1/4 small red onion
- 1/2 cup feta cheese
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
Fresh strawberries should be ripe and firm to maintain a juicy texture and vibrant color in your salad. Candied pecans add a sweet crunch; toast them lightly if possible for enhanced flavor and aroma. Using crumbled feta cheese offers a creamy, salty contrast to the sweetness of strawberries and pecans. When preparing the vinaigrette, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and extra-virgin olive oil thoroughly to achieve a well-balanced tangy dressing. Your Strawberry Fields Salad from TGI Friday's copycat menu will highlight a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements perfect for a refreshing meal.
Instructions
- Wash and dry mixed greens using salad spinner.
- Hull and slice strawberries.
- Thinly slice red onion.
- Add mixed greens to large salad bowl.
- Top with sliced strawberries, red onion, candied pecans, and feta cheese.
- In small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper.
- While whisking, slowly drizzle in olive oil until vinaigrette is emulsified.
- Pour vinaigrette over salad.
- Toss salad gently to coat.
- Serve immediately with salad tongs or serving utensils.
Substitution
Strawberry Fields Salad from TGI Friday's copycat menu blends fresh strawberries, mixed greens, candied pecans, red onions, and feta cheese with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. If fresh strawberries are unavailable, frozen or dried strawberries can be used, though they may alter texture and sweetness. Candied pecans can be substituted with walnuts or almonds toasted with a bit of sugar for crunch and flavor. When red onion is too sharp, try soaking thin slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the taste before adding to your salad. Use a whisked mixture of balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and extra-virgin olive oil to create a fresh vinaigrette that brings all flavors together perfectly.
Tips
Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly with a salad spinner to prevent soggy texture in your Strawberry Fields Salad. When emulsifying the balsamic vinaigrette, slowly drizzle in extra-virgin olive oil while whisking briskly to ensure a smooth and well-blended dressing. Slice strawberries and red onions uniformly for an even distribution of flavors and a visually appealing presentation. Toss the salad gently with salad tongs to evenly coat ingredients without bruising delicate greens or strawberries, preserving the salad's fresh texture and vibrant look.
Nutritions
Strawberry Fields Salad from TGI Friday's delivers a nutrient-rich profile with antioxidants and vitamin C from fresh strawberries, fiber and vitamins from mixed greens, and healthy fats from extra-virgin olive oil. The candied pecans contribute protein and essential minerals like magnesium, while feta cheese adds calcium and vitamin B12. The balsamic vinaigrette, made with vinegar, mustard, and honey, provides a low-calorie, flavorful dressing that enhances the salad without excess sugar. Your body benefits from this balanced combination of vitamins, healthy fats, and fiber in every vibrant bite.
Storage
Store leftover Strawberry Fields Salad in an airtight container and refrigerate immediately to preserve the freshness of mixed greens, strawberries, and feta cheese. Keep the balsamic vinaigrette separate in a small jar or container to avoid sogginess. Your salad will maintain optimal texture and flavor when consumed within 1 to 2 days.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap candied pecans for toasted walnuts or sliced almonds for a different nutty texture and flavor profile. You can replace feta cheese with goat cheese or blue cheese to add a creamier, tangy taste. Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or mint to brighten the salad's flavor. For a quicker vinaigrette, combine balsamic glaze with olive oil without whisking to save time.
Allergies
Strawberry Fields Salad from TGI Friday's contains common allergens such as pecans and feta cheese, which may trigger reactions in individuals with nut or dairy allergies. The balsamic vinaigrette contains honey and Dijon mustard, potentially problematic for those allergic to mustard or bee products. You should always inform your server about any food allergies to ensure your meal is safe.
Why this recipe?
TGI Friday's Strawberry Fields Salad is popular for its fresh combination of ripe strawberries, mixed greens, glazed pecans, and crumbled feta cheese, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The salad's signature strawberry vinaigrette enhances its unique taste, making it a refreshing and memorable option. You'll find it worth making a copycat version at home to enjoy a healthy, delicious dish that's easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Its vibrant colors and diverse textures make it an ideal choice for both a light meal and a stylish presentation.