Strawberry Walnut Salad Recipe (Gluten Free & Vegan)

Indulge in the perfect balance of flavors and nutrition with this Strawberry Walnut Salad recipe. Made with fresh strawberries, crunchy walnuts, creamy avocado, and a medley of nutrient-rich ingredients, this salad is the perfect example of health and taste. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing quick and easy meal or a wholesome side dish, this vibrant salad has it all.

Packed with heart-healthy fats from walnuts and avocado, antioxidant-rich strawberries to combat inflammation, and fiber to support liver detoxification and metabolic health, this dish nourishes your body from the inside out.

The omega-3s in walnuts and hemp seeds also promote brain health, making this salad a wholesome choice for overall vitality.

Why You’ll Love This Salad:

• Refreshing and Light: Perfect for warmer months or when you’re craving something fresh and healthy.
• Rich in Nutrients: Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, healthy fats, and plant-based protein.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Customizable: Swap or add ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredients and Their Health Benefits:

Organic Spring Mix

A vibrant blend of greens like spinach, kale, and arugula that’s rich in:

• Vitamins A, C, and K: Supports vision, immunity, and bone health.
• Antioxidants: Protects cells from damage and promotes vitality.

Seedless Cucumber

Refreshing and hydrating, cucumbers are:

• Low in Calories: Great for weight management.
• Rich in Vitamin K and C: Supports skin health and boosts hydration.

Walnuts

A powerhouse of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts are:

• Anti-inflammatory: Promotes cardiovascular wellness.
• Brain-Boosting: Supports cognitive function and reduces stress.

Hemp Seeds

Tiny but mighty, hemp seeds are:

• High in Protein: Great for plant-based diets.
• Rich in Omega Fatty Acids: Boosts skin, heart, and brain health.

Strawberries

Sweet and tangy, strawberries add:

• Vitamin C: Strengthens the immune system and promotes radiant skin.
• Antioxidants: Fights free radicals and supports healthy aging.

Avocado

Creamy and nutrient-dense, avocado provides:

• Healthy Fats: Keeps you full and supports heart health.
• Fiber: Aids digestion and stabilizes blood sugar.

Red Onion

Zesty and flavorful, red onions bring:

• Flavonoids: Supports heart health and reduces inflammation.
• Antioxidants: Enhances immune function.

How to Make This Strawberry Walnut Salad

Ingredients:

• 4 cups organic spring mix
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1/4 cup hemp seeds
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

For the Dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
• Pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salad Base:
   In a large bowl, combine the organic spring mix, strawberries, cucumber, walnuts, hemp seeds, avocado, and red onion.
2. Make the Dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Assemble and Serve:
   Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips:

• Add Protein: Top with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a protein boost.
• Customize: Swap walnuts for pecans or hemp seeds or sunflower seeds.
• Storage: Keep dressing separate if making ahead to prevent wilting.

Nutritional Highlights:

This Strawberry Walnut Salad is more than delicious—it’s full of health boosting nutrition.

• Heart-Healthy: healthy fats in walnuts, avocado, and hemp seeds.
• Immune-Boosting: With vitamin C from strawberries and red onions.
• Rich in Fiber: Supports digestion and keeps you full.

FAQs:

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the ingredients in advance but store the dressing separately. Assemble right before serving for the freshest taste.

2. What can I substitute for hemp seeds?
Sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds work great as alternatives.

3. How do I make it nut-free?
Replace walnuts with sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.

This Strawberry Walnut Salad is made with fresh, wholesome ingredients that nourish your body and delight your taste buds. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a light meal, it’s sure to become a favorite in your healthy recipe rotation.