Summer Strawberry Romaine Salad


Hi, I'm Rachelle
The Vivacious Gourmet
I cook delicious healthy recipes that are simple to make, with wholesome fresh ingredients.
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Summer Strawberry Romaine Salad Recipe 🌞🍓
I have such fond memories of enjoying this salad every summer growing up, and it’s still one of my go-to dishes during the warmer months! My Summer Strawberry Romaine Salad is light, refreshing, and super simple to whip up.
What makes it extra special? I love strawberries—they’re packed with sweet flavour and are incredibly nutritious. The combination of crisp romaine, juicy strawberries, and creamy goat cheese) is a match made in heaven. The crunchy toasted sliced almonds or pine nuts give it the perfect texture.
Why I Love This Salad
I always aim to buy local strawberries when they’re in season. They have a natural sweetness that you just can’t find in store-bought varieties the rest of the year. Plus, they’re bursting with antioxidants and vitamins, so they’re as good for you as they are delicious! When you pair these sweet berries with the crisp crunch of romaine lettuce, the smoothness of goat cheese, and the nutty bite of almonds or pine nuts, you get a salad that’s both satisfying and healthy. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something so much more than the sum of their parts.
For those who prefer a vegan option, you can easily omit the goat cheese. The salad still holds its own beautifully without it, thanks to the balance of flavours and textures.
You’ll only need a few ingredients, so let’s dive right in!
Ingredients:
- Romaine lettuce – fresh and crisp
- Strawberries – ideally locally sourced in the summer for the best flavour
- English cucumber – adds a refreshing crunch
- Goat cheese – creamy and smooth (optional for a vegan twist)
- Sliced almonds or pine nuts – for a delightful crunch
- Fresh basil – adds a fragrant, herby note
Dressing:
- Raspberry vinegar (balsamic or regular white)
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Dijon mustard (or dry mustard)
- Sea salt
- Garlic powder
- Maple syrup – for a hint of natural sweetness


Summer Strawberry Romaine Salad
Ingredients
- 1 head romaine lettuce diced, washed and dried
- 1 cup fresh strawberries sliced
- 1 cup English cucumber sliced
- 1/4 cup goat cheese
- 2 tbsp toasted sliced almonds or pine nuts
- 1 tbsp fresh basil chopped finely
- Dressing:
- 1/4 cup raspberry vinegar either balsamic or regular
- 3/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard or dry mustard
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Optional: 2 tsp maple syrup
Instructions
- In a large bowl assemble your salad. Add romaine letter, cucumbers, strawberries, goat cheese and fresh basil.
- In a small bowl, add together raspberry vinegar, lemon juice, dijon mustard, salt, garlic powder and olive oil. Whisk together until it becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- When you are ready to eat, add the dressing and top with toasted almonds or pine nuts. Eat and enjoy!
This salad is perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing side for any meal. What’s your favourite summer salad ingredient? Let me know in the comments!
If you enjoyed this recipe you might also like my Peach Burrata Salad, or Grilled Halloumi & Peach Salad, or my yummy Kale Ceasar Salad.

This looks so perfect for summer and love the bowl you have. I will share it with my family.