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Strawberry and Watercress Salad

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 4 Feb 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This vibrant strawberry and watercress salad is a sophisticated vegan dish that celebrates the very best of seasonal British produce. By pairing the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries with the sharp, acidic crunch of raw rhubarb, you create a complex flavour profile that is both refreshing and bold. The peppery punch of the watercress and aromatic fresh herbs adds plenty of depth, making this much more than a standard side salad.

Perfect as a light lunch or a colourful starter for a summer dinner party, this dish is naturally healthy and packed with antioxidants. The lemon and honey dressing draws out the juices from the fruit to create a built-in vinaigrette that ties the whole plate together. Serve it immediately to enjoy the contrast between the crisp leaves and the softened, macerated fruit.

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Ingredients for Strawberry and Watercress Salad

  • 1/2 medium rhubarb stalk, very thinly sliced on a diagonal

  • 170g strawberries, hulled, halved, sliced if large

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 2 teaspoons vegan honey

  • 1 bunch watercress, tough stems removed

  • 1/2 cup basil leaves

  • 1/2 cup coriander leaves with tender stems

  • 2 spring onions, thinly sliced on a diagonal

  • Kosher salt

  • Crushed red pepper flakes

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • Poppy seeds (for serving)

How to make Strawberry and Watercress Salad

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Toss rhubarb, strawberries, lemon juice, and honey in a medium bowl to combine.

Arrange watercress, basil, and coriander on a platter, then scatter spring onions over. Season with salt and sprinkle with red pepper flakes. Spoon berry mixture and juices over; drizzle with oil and sprinkle with poppy seeds.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 4 Feb 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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