Strawberry Tarragon Salad with Aged Balsamic Vinegar

This unforgettable strawberry salad combines sweet organic berries, fragrant tarragon, tangy blue cheese, and toasted pecans over mixed greens. The secret? A homemade strawberry-infused balsamic dressing that elevates every bite. Perfect for summer gatherings, this gourmet salad surprises skeptics with its bold yet balanced flavors!

Prep Time: 20 minutes (+2 hours infusing)
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Serves: 4
Calories: 320/serving

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Balsamic Dressing:

• ¼ cup good-quality balsamic vinegar
• 3 small ripe strawberries (mashed)
• ¾ cup Tarragon Herb Oil or extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar (6+ years, optional but recommended)
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard
• Pinch of sea salt

For the Salad:

• 2 pints small ripe organic strawberries, hulled
• 5–6 cups mixed baby greens (about 4 oz)
• ½ cup fresh tarragon leaves
• ¼ cup toasted pecans, chopped
• ½ cup crumbled blue cheese (2 oz)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Infuse the Dressing

• Mash 3 strawberries in a bowl. Add ¼ cup balsamic vinegar, stir, and let sit 1–2 hours at room temperature.

2. Marinate Strawberries

• Halve remaining berries. Toss with 2 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar (if using). Marinate 1–2 hours.

3. Strain & Shake Dressing

• Strain infused vinegar into a jar, pressing berries to extract liquid. Discard solids.
• Add herb oil, mustard, and salt. Seal and shake vigorously.

4. Assemble Salad

• In a large bowl, toss greens and tarragon with 3 tbsp dressing. Add more if needed.
• Divide greens among plates. Top with marinated strawberries, pecans, and blue cheese.

5. Serve Immediately!

• Enjoy fresh. Store leftover dressing refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Herb-Flavored Oil {#herb-oil}

Makes ¾ cup | Refrigerate after making
Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh tarragon leaves (or basil/rosemary)
• ¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil

Steps:

1. Blanch herbs in boiling water (15 sec), then plunge into ice water. Squeeze dry.
2. Blend herbs and oil for 1 minute.
3. Let sit 1 hour at room temperature. Strain, pressing solids.
4. Refrigerate up to 10 days.

Pro Tips for Success

• Strawberry Quality: Use peak-season organic berries for maximum sweetness.
• Time-Saver: Infuse dressing and marinate berries ahead.
• No Aged Balsamic? Substitute with 1 tsp honey + regular balsamic.
• Nut Swap: Try walnuts or almonds instead of pecans.
• Vegan Option: Omit blue cheese or use vegan feta.