Cherry Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly balances sweet, tart cherries with crisp greens, creamy cheese, and a light, flavorful dressing. This versatile salad can be served as a side dish, a light lunch, or even a simple dinner for those looking for a healthy yet satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad is bursting with flavor, color, and texture. The natural sweetness of cherries pairs beautifully with tangy cheese, crunchy nuts, and a citrusy dressing. It’s quick to prepare, visually stunning, and perfect for warm weather gatherings or weeknight meals when you want something fresh and light.
Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted and halved)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, combine salad greens, cherries, crumbled cheese, toasted nuts, and sliced red onion.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl or plate and enjoy immediately. Optional: garnish with extra cherries or nuts for presentation.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 4 servings. Prep time is approximately 15 minutes.
Variations
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial meal.
- Fruit Mix: Substitute or mix cherries with strawberries, blueberries, or mandarin oranges.
- Nut-Free: Omit nuts or replace with pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.
- Cheese Options: Swap feta/goat cheese with blue cheese or ricotta salata for a different flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Best served fresh. Store leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 1 day.
- Avoid Sogginess: Do not dress the salad until just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, frozen cherries work, but thaw and drain them to prevent excess moisture in the salad.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead, but toss with dressing right before serving to keep greens crisp.
What cheese works best in this salad?
Feta and goat cheese are ideal for creaminess and tang, but blue cheese or ricotta salata also work well.
Can I use a different dressing?
Yes, honey mustard, poppy seed, or a citrus vinaigrette also complement the flavors nicely.
Can I add grains to make it more filling?
Yes, cooked quinoa, farro, or couscous can be added to make a hearty salad.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, omit cheese or use a plant-based alternative and ensure the dressing does not contain honey (use maple syrup instead).
How do I toast the nuts?
Place nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned.
Can I store the dressing separately?
Yes, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Shake or whisk before using.
Can I use dried cherries?
Yes, but soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to soften before adding to the salad.
Can I add herbs?
Fresh herbs like basil, mint, or parsley enhance flavor and freshness.
Conclusion
Cherry Salad is a colorful, refreshing, and flavorful dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its combination of sweet cherries, tangy cheese, crunchy nuts, and crisp greens, it offers a balance of textures and flavors that will make it a staple in your salad rotation.
Print
Cherry Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes plus chilling
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cherry Salad is a sweet and creamy fruit salad featuring fresh or canned cherries, whipped cream, and a touch of crunch from nuts or marshmallows. It’s a refreshing dessert or side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or canned cherries, pitted
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cherries, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts (if using).
- In a separate bowl, mix whipped cream with sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the cherry mixture until well combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled as a side dish or dessert.
Notes
- Fresh cherries provide the best flavor, but canned cherries work well if fresh are not available.
- Optional: add shredded coconut or diced pineapple for extra tropical flavor.
- This salad can be made a day ahead; keep refrigerated until serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert/Side Dish
- Method: No-bake/Chill
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
