The strawberry season is in full swing here in Massachusetts and my family and I have been enjoying its bounty.  We are blessed to live within a mile of two “pick you own” strawberry fields and have several other farm stands nearby that are bursting with fresh strawberries this time of year. I always make a point of trying at least one new recipe each year using fresh strawberries, and normally this includes some type of dessert, but strawberries are delicious in salads too, as I discovered when I made Strawberry Chicken Pecan Salad.  What makes this salad so exceptional is that it pairs fresh strawberries with other ingredients that highlight its flavor perfectly.  Maple syrup intensifies the berry flavor, balsamic vinegar adds a pleasant tartness, and salty feta helps to balance some of the sweetness.  The result is a salad where the essence of fresh strawberries really shines through. (more…)