Famers Market Balsamic Recipe

Wash and thoroughly dry the mixed greens, strawberries, blueberries, and herbs using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel. Pat the avocado dry after dicing to avoid excess moisture.

Halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the cucumber and radishes, shave or julienne the carrots, and very thinly slice the red onion. Quarter hulled strawberries and dice the avocado to bite-sized pieces.

Roughly chop the toasted walnuts if not already chopped. Crumble the goat cheese and set aside. If using microgreens or basil, gently tear large basil leaves into smaller pieces.

Combine

In a small bowl or jar, add 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup), 1 tablespoon minced shallot, and 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice.

Emulsify

Whisk or tightly close the jar lid and shake while slowly streaming in 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil until the dressing is fully emulsified and slightly thickened. Alternatively, use a small blender or immersion blender for 10–15 seconds.

Season

Taste and season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste — add up to 1 teaspoon honey for more sweetness or a splash more balsamic for tang.

In a large bowl, place the 6 cups of mixed baby greens. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, radishes, shaved carrots, and thinly sliced red onion. Gently toss to combine.

Add the quartered strawberries, blueberries, diced avocado, and toasted walnuts to the bowl. Toss gently again to distribute ingredients without mashing the fruit or avocado.

Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the top and gently fold it in so some remains as garnish.

Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the salad — start with about 3–4 tablespoons, toss gently, and add more to taste. Garnish with microgreens or torn basil leaves.

Divide the salad among 4 plates or bowls. Serve immediately so the greens and fruit remain fresh and the avocado doesn’t brown. Offer additional dressing at the table.