Summertime and this Salad is Easy…

A Bit of History:

During summertime, I am always reminded of one of my dad’s favorite songs; Otis Redding’s Sitting on the Dock of the Bay. My brother and I probably heard that song at least one hundred times every summer. Much to our dismay, my dad would always sing along! My family and I adore lazy summer days sitting by the water, enjoying the pool or beach, or boating. We also frequently head to local farms and orchards to pick strawberries and often have a plethora of fruit on our hands. This easy, summertime recipe for Strawberry Hazelnut Salad with Basil Mint Cucumber Dressing comes together in a snap, so that we have more time to play and enjoy all the fun summertime activities.

About the Recipe: Strawberry Hazelnut Salad with Basil Mint Cucumber Dressing

This salad recipe is one of those summertime classics. If you google strawberry salad, you will discover thousands of slightly different combinations. In the recipe listed below, I describe my favorite variation. Whenever I have fresh herbs on hand (or a mom whose mint plant is growing like crazy), I like to make a basil, mint cucumber dressing. Adding a touch of avocado, gives it a rich creamy texture. It is perfect to toss with mixed greens and top with fresh strawberries (or peaches) and toasted hazelnuts. Add your favorite cooked grain, such as farro or wheat berries for a heartier meal. This recipe is a definite crowd pleaser for the whole family and makes a perfect dish to bring to your next springtime or summer gathering.

Strawberry Hazelnut Salad with Basil Mint Cucumber

Strawberry-Toasted Hazelnut Salad with Basil, Mint, Cucumber Dressing

A refreshing, healthy, summer salad featuring mixed greens, strawberries, toasted hazenuts, cucumber, avocado, radish and fresh basil and mint.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 20

Course Main Course, Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Equipment

Blender

Ingredients

2 cups packed fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup packed fresh mint leaves
1 cup cucumber
1/4 of an avocado
1 lemon juiced
2 cloves garlic
2 tbsp dijon mustard
salt and pepper to taste
water or olive oil to thin if needed

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a blender and process until smooth.
Taste and add salt and pepper accordingly. If dressing is too thick, thin with a bit of water or olive oil. If dressing is too thin add a bit more avocado or basil until you reach desired consistency.

Keyword basil mint cucumber avocado strawberry salad, plant-based strawberry hazelnut basil mint cucumber salad, ultratruffle basil mint cucumber avocado strawberry salad, ultratruffle summer strawberry hazelnut salad, vegan summer strawberry hazelnut basil mint cucmber salad

Looking for some other great salad recipes? Try these Ultratruffle favorites:

Sage Hot Honey Vinaigrette

Orange Ginger Pomegranate Vinaigrette

Grilled Scallion Vinaigrette