Strawberry, Spinach & Goat Cheese Salad

I had this salad at a bridal shower and after eating it I couldn't stop thinking about how fresh, delicious and beautiful it was. I asked one of the hosts if she wouldn't mind sharing the recipe and now, over a year later, I finally remembered to take a picture of this gorgeous dish before we devoured it. With strawberry season in full swing, this would be the perfect side dish for anything made on the grill. Top it with shrimp, chicken or steak and this salad would even make the perfect main course! Isn't it pretty?

You Will Need for the Almond Topping:

• 3 tbs of sugar
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds

You Will Need for the Dressing:

• 2 Tbs apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup corn or vegetable oil
• 2 Tbs sugar
• 1/4 tsp of salt

You Will Need for the Salad:

• 4 oz baby spinach
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions, including tops
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
• 1 cup of fresh strawberries; halved
• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese

Here We Go for the Almond Topping:

• Place small saucepan over medium heat , add sugar and stir constantly while sugar melts and turns a pale golden brown
• Add almonds and stir to coat; remove from heat and pour on a piece of foil to cool
• When cool, crush almonds coarsely and set aside

Here We Go for the Dressing:

• Whisk together vinegar, oil, sugar and salt
• Chill before serving

Here We Go for the Salad:

• Wash spinach and pat dry
• Place spinach in large salad bowl and add chopped celery, cucumber,and onion
• Top with strawberries, goat cheese and almonds
• Add dressing and toss just before serving

Serves 2
Happy Feasting!