T.G.I. Friday’s Strawberry Fields Salad

The restaurant doesn’t serve this salad anymore. That’s the great thing about copycat recipes — if it is something you like that goes of the menu, you can still make it at home. Frozen strawberries may be used if fresh ones are not available.

T.G.I. Friday’s Strawberry Fields Salad is a delightful and refreshing salad that showcases the vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries and mixed greens. This salad is a perfect choice for those looking for a light and healthy option while still enjoying a burst of delicious flavors.

The star of this salad is the fresh strawberries, which bring a natural sweetness and bright color to the dish. They are paired with a variety of mixed greens, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of crisp lettuce, tender spinach, and peppery arugula creates a refreshing base for the salad.

To complement the sweetness of the strawberries and greens, T.G.I. Friday’s adds other delicious ingredients to the mix. This includes tangy goat cheese crumbles, crunchy toasted almonds, and a zesty balsamic vinaigrette dressing. These elements add depth and complexity to the salad, making each bite a delightful explosion of flavors.

Not only is T.G.I. Friday’s Strawberry Fields Salad delicious, but it also offers nutritional benefits. It is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the fresh greens and strawberries, providing a boost of nutrition to your meal. Additionally, the inclusion of goat cheese and almonds adds protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and well-rounded option.

Whether enjoyed as a starter or a main course, T.G.I. Friday’s Strawberry Fields Salad is a crowd-pleaser that offers a perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. It is a fantastic choice for those seeking a light and refreshing meal option without compromising on taste.

SERVES: 2

INGREDIENTS:

FOR GLAZED PECANS 

• 1 cup chopped pecans
• ¼ cup dark brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon water

FOR STRAWBERRY GLAZE 

• 12 strawberries
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons water

FOR SALAD

• 1 head red leaf lettuce
• 1 head romaine lettuce
• 2 ounces shredded Parmesan cheese
• 6 ounces balsamic vinaigrette dressing
• Cracked pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a small sauté pan on medium heat, mix the chopped pecans with brown sugar and water. Cook for 4–5 minutes. Set aside.
2. Slice the strawberries into ¼ ″ slices.
3. In a small bowl, mix the vinegar, sugar, and water with the sliced strawberries. Set aside.
4. Chop the lettuces into 2″ pieces.
5. In a large bowl, toss the lettuces, Parmesan, vinaigrette, and pecans.
6. Strain the strawberries from the glaze and place on top of the salad. Add the cracked black pepper to the top of the salad.

TIPS:

• Choose fresh and ripe strawberries: Opt for strawberries that are firm, plump, and brightly colored. The sweetness and juiciness of the strawberries will elevate the flavor of the salad.
• Toast the almonds for added crunch: Toasting the almonds before adding them to the salad brings out their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Simply toss the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until they turn golden brown and fragrant.
• Customize the salad to your liking: Feel free to customize the salad by adding or substituting ingredients. You can include additional toppings such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or avocado to make it a more substantial meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
• Dress the salad just before serving: To keep the greens crisp and prevent them from becoming soggy, dress the salad just before serving. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
• Serve with crusty bread or a side dish: If you’re looking for a heartier meal, consider serving the Strawberry Fields Salad with a side of crusty bread or a light soup. This will complement the flavors of the salad and add a satisfying element to your meal.