Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Herbs and Goat Cheese

Spinach salad with strawberries and goat cheese is a classic starter that becomes vibrant and complex with the addition of fresh herbs. While tinkering with the proportions of herbs is encouraged, the tarragon can become overpowering if increased.

• 
  
  3 cups baby spinach
  
  


• 
  
  1 cup packed small mixed fresh herb leaves such as basil, mint, and parsley
  
  


• 
  
  2 Tbs. packed tarragon leaves
  
  


• 
  
  1 cup quartered strawberries
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
  
  


• 
  
  3 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. fresh lemon juice
  
  


• 
  
  3 oz. fresh goat cheese
  
  

In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, mixed herbs, and tarragon leaves. Gently toss with the strawberries and a few pinches of salt and pepper.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, 1/4 tsp. salt, and 1/4 tsp. pepper. Toss the salad with enough vinaigrette to coat and crumble the goat cheese on top.