📖 Instructions

1. Wash and Dry the Lettuce: Begin by thoroughly washing the mixed greens or spinach under cold water. A salad spinner can be very helpful here to remove excess moisture, which will keep your salad crisp and prevent it from becoming soggy. Gently spin the greens until they are mostly dry, then transfer them to a clean kitchen towel and pat them dry.
2. Prepare the Strawberries: Hull the strawberries by removing the green leafy tops with a paring knife or a strawberry huller. Slice the strawberries into halves or quarters, depending on their size. You want them to be bite-sized and easy to eat. Set them aside in a bowl.
3. Crumble the Feta Cheese: Open the package of feta cheese and gently crumble it with your fingers or a fork. Aim for small, even crumbles that will distribute nicely throughout the salad. If the feta seems too wet, you can lightly pat it dry with a paper towel.
4. Toast the Almonds (optional): To enhance the flavor and texture of the salad, toast the sliced almonds. Spread them in a single layer on a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 2-3 minutes, shaking the pan frequently, until they turn light golden brown and become fragrant. Watch them closely as they can burn quickly. Remove from heat and let them cool completely.
5. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the washed and dried lettuce, sliced strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss the ingredients together to evenly distribute them. Be careful not to overmix, as this can bruise the lettuce and crush the strawberries.
6. Prepare the Balsamic Glaze: If you are using store-bought balsamic glaze, ensure it's ready to drizzle. If you are making your own, pour balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and simmer over low heat until it reduces and thickens into a syrupy consistency. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Let it cool slightly before using.
7. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Lightly drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad. Start with a small amount and add more to taste. The glaze should complement the sweetness of the strawberries and the saltiness of the feta, not overpower them.
8. Add Toasted Almonds (optional): Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the salad for added crunch and nutty flavor.
9. Serve Immediately: The salad is best served immediately after assembling to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. If you’re not serving it right away, store the components separately and combine them just before serving.
10. Enjoy Your Salad: Grab a fork, and dig in! Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet strawberries, salty feta, and tangy balsamic glaze. This salad is perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a refreshing dessert.