Balsamic Strawberry Salad

Looking for a fresh and vibrant salad that will do your body good? We’re loving this Balsamic Strawberry Salad by our recipe contributor, Zoe of Rub a Dub Dub. Here’s what Zoe has to say about her rich, fruity recipe:

“After the usual Christmas and New Year indulgences, many of us find ourselves needing to give our insides a much needed rest. There is no better way to do that than with a fresh salad. Combining brightly colored fruit with greens gives antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals galore without depriving your taste buds of the revelry they have enjoyed over the holiday season! Combine the strawberries with balsamic vinegar and a touch of oil to infuse the flavors even more prior to assembling the salad and you can’t go wrong. You can also add a touch of feta cheese for extra deliciousness.

Happy 2014 everyone, wishing you a safe and enjoyable one!”

SALAD:

—1 tsp good quality balsamic vinegar

—1/2 tbsp olive oil

—1 large punnet of ripe strawberries

—2 cups baby spinach

—3/4 cup pistachios, shelled

—2 handfuls of snow peas, topped and tailed

—100gm hard pecorino cheese, shaved

—100gm feta cheese (optional)

DRESSING:

—¼ cup olive oil

—1 ¼ tsp maple syrup

—2 tsp good quality balsamic vinegar

—Salt and cracked pepper to taste

1. Hull and slice the strawberries, combine them with the balsamic vinegar and oil, and refrigerate for an hour or so.

2. Just before you are ready to serve, whisk the dressing ingredients together in a separate bowl, and assemble the remaining salad ingredients.

3. Gently toss in the strawberries and dressing and serve immediately.