![Baby Lettuces with Feta, Strawberries and Almonds](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.foodandwine.com/thmb/jcw8enx6Axv0mYtf-s6t497g7NI=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/201206-xl-baby-lettuces-with-feta-strawberries-and-almonds-2000-fe0a9d55d24041a4a809d155aac66345.jpg)
A crisp assortment of baby lettuce serves as the vehicle for a classic Dijon mustard, vinegar, and oil vinaigrette. However, what makes this strawberry feta salad a standout is its toppings. Sliced strawberries give the salad a pop of color and a hint of sweetness, depending on their ripeness level, while a tangy feta cheese adds the perfect amount of briny and creaminess to complete the otherwise simple salad. The unlikely combination of salad, fruit, and cheese proves that each component can accentuate rather than overpower the other and coexist in a simple yet elegant dish.
Notes from the Food & Wine Test Kitchen
Our vinaigrette requires only a handful of ingredients: Dijon mustard, honey, shallot, red wine vinegar, and extra-virgin olive oil seasoned with salt and freshly ground pepper. For next-level deliciousness, we use Banyuls red wine vinegar. From southern France, this vinegar is made from fortified Banyuls wine aged in oak barrels and acidified, resulting in an exceptionally smooth end product. If it's not already in your pantry, Banyuls vinegar is worth seeking out — we're pretty sure that once you try it, you'll want to drizzle it over all kinds of veggies and meats.
Suggested pairing
Bright, berry-scented rosé echoes the summer fruit in this strawberry feta salad salad. Pour a crisp, dry rosé from Provence.
Ingredients
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2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
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1 teaspoon honey
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1 small shallot, minced
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2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, preferably Banyuls
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1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
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1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
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1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
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12 cups packed assorted baby lettuces (about 6 ounces)
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1 quart strawberries, hulled, small berries halved, large ones quartered
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4 ounces feta (preferably French), crumbled (1 cup)
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1 cup smoked almonds, chopped
Directions
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In a small bowl, stir together the Dijon mustard, honey, shallot, and vinegar. Stir in the olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
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Put the lettuces in a large bowl. Add the strawberries, feta, and almonds. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss well, and serve.