Simple Strawberries with Basil Recipe {No Cheese}

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Strawberries with basil is perfect for brunch, as a side, or on top of ice cream. Simply add chopped basil and honey to sliced strawberries. Couldn’t be easier!

If you love fresh summer sides that feel fancy but are actually fuss-free, you’re going to adore this one. This strawberry basil salad has no cheese, no dressing packets, and no complicated prep—just a few whole ingredients. It’s proof that healthy recipes can be quick, simple, and full of bold, refreshing flavor.

The ingredients? Just fresh strawberries, chopped basil, and a bit of honey. You won’t need a food processor, vinegar, oil, or dairy for this salad.

Grab a large bowl, slice your ripe strawberries, and chop some fragrant basil leaves. Drizzle the sweet strawberries with honey or try maple syrup if you prefer a vegan option. Toss gently, and that’s it. Truly. That’s the entire recipe.

The result is a savory strawberry salad with just enough sweetness to balance the fresh herbs. It makes the perfect side salad, brunch menu item, picnic snack, or a fresh topping for avocado toast or grilled chicken. It’s also absolutely delicious spooned over homemade vanilla ice cream – a refreshing and elegant summer dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Simple Strawberry Basil Salad

• Uses just three wholesome ingredients
• Takes two minutes to make
• Packed with antioxidants (and healthy fats if paired with nuts)
• Perfect for strawberry season or when fresh berries are on sale
• Naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and dairy-free (and vegan if you use maple syrup instead of honey)

Ingredient Notes

• Fresh Strawberries: Use organic strawberries if possible for the best flavor and minimal pesticide exposure. Look for juicy strawberries that are firm and deep red. Wash and slice them into thin strips for the prettiest presentation.
• Fresh Basil: Choose vibrant green basil leaves without dark spots. Chop just before serving to keep that classic combination of color and aroma.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Honey complements the sweetness of strawberries and brings out the flavor of the fragrant basil. Maple syrup works beautifully as a vegan swap.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon honey, or to taste (or maple syrup for a vegan version)

Directions

1. Place the sliced fresh strawberries into a large bowl.
2. Add the chopped basil leaves to the bowl.
3. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup.
4. Gently toss everything until well combined.
5. Serve immediately as a side salad, dessert topping, or fresh appetizer.

Optional Additions (If You Don’t Mind Straying from Simplicity)

Want to take your delicious strawberry salad up a notch?

• Toss in thin slices of red onion for extra bite
• Add toasted almonds for crunch and healthy fats
• Try a light splash of lemon juice for tart balance

For a non-vegan option, you could add crumbles of goat cheese or slices of fresh mozzarella, similar to a classic caprese salad. But if you’re here for a no-cheese salad, you’re already set!

Storage Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh. The basil can brown and the strawberries may soften after sitting. If you must store it, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge and eat within 2-3 days.

To keep your side dish looking its best, wait to add the basil and honey until just before serving.

FAQs: Strawberries with Basil Recipe

• Can I use frozen strawberries? Fresh strawberries are strongly recommended. Frozen berries will create soggy, less beautiful results.
• What makes this salad healthy? Strawberries are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C. Basil contains anti-inflammatory compounds. Honey adds sweetness without processed sugar. That’s a win!
• Can I prep it ahead of time? It’s best if you make it fresh, but if you must make it ahead of time, slice the strawberries ahead and then add the honey and chopped basil leaves just before serving for the best texture and color.
• Can I serve this with dessert? Absolutely! Spoon it over homemade vanilla ice cream for a sweet, herby twist on a classic summer treat.

This strawberry salad recipe is a big hit at barbecues and brunches. It’s especially popular when warmer weather arrives and you’re craving light, refreshing meals. You’ll be amazed at how such a simple strawberry basil salad can be so full of flavor.

Whether you’re hosting or just treating yourself to a fresh side dish, this recipe delivers every time. It even makes a stunning topping for homemade vanilla ice cream—the ultimate warm-weather treat.

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Simple Strawberries with Basil Recipe {No Cheese}

Strawberries with basil is perfect for brunch, as a side, or on top of ice cream. Simply add chopped basil and honey to sliced strawberries. Couldn’t be easier!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 2 minutes mins

Total Time 2 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Side Dish

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped
• 1 teaspoon honey or to taste (or maple syrup for a vegan version)

Method

 

1. Place the sliced fresh strawberries into a large bowl.
2. Add the chopped basil leaves to the bowl.
3. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup.
4. Gently toss everything until well combined.
5. Serve immediately as a side salad, dessert topping, or fresh appetizer.