Mâche & Strawberry Skewers – Fresh, Simple, and Bright

These Mâche & Strawberry Skewers are the kind of quick snack or party bite that makes people smile. Sweet strawberries meet tender mâche (also called lamb’s lettuce), with a light, tangy drizzle that ties everything together. They’re easy to assemble, look beautiful, and taste clean and refreshing.

Make them for brunch, a picnic, or a no-fuss appetizer that feels special without a lot of work.

Why This Recipe Works

Mâche has a delicate, slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with sweet, juicy strawberries. The greens are soft and mild, so they don’t overpower the fruit. A simple dressing—just good olive oil, lemon, and a touch of honey—adds brightness and keeps each bite lively.

Skewering the ingredients turns a simple salad into a tidy, grab-and-go snack.

It’s mess-free, easy to portion, and perfect for sharing. With minimal prep, you get a fresh, colorful dish that looks like it took more effort than it did.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh mâche (rinsed and dried thoroughly)
• 1 pound strawberries (ripe but firm, hulled)
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls (optional, for a creamy note)
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (or balsamic vinegar)
• 2 teaspoons honey (or maple syrup)
• Pinch of sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh mint (optional, but great with strawberries)
• Toasted sliced almonds or pistachios for garnish (optional)
• Short wooden skewers or cocktail picks

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the strawberries. Rinse, pat dry, and remove the stems. If large, cut them into halves or quarters so they’re bite-sized and easy to skewer.
2. Dry the mâche well. Rinse gently and spin dry or pat with paper towels.

   Excess water will thin the dressing and make the greens limp.

3. Stir together the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust. Add mint if you like a fresh, herbal touch.
4. Assemble the skewers. Thread a strawberry piece, a small tuft of mâche (pinch it firmly so it holds), and a mozzarella pearl.

   Repeat as desired, ending with a strawberry for a neat look.

5. Drizzle lightly. Arrange skewers on a platter and spoon a small amount of dressing over the top. You want a light sheen, not a soak.
6. Finish with texture. Sprinkle with toasted almonds or pistachios for crunch. Add a final crack of black pepper.
7. Serve right away. These are best fresh, while the greens are perky and the strawberries are juicy.

Storage Instructions

These skewers are best the day you make them.

If you need to prep ahead, keep components separate: strawberries in one container, dried mâche in another, and the dressing in a small jar. Assemble within a few hours of serving.

Once assembled and dressed, refrigerate leftovers in a covered container for up to 12 hours. The mâche may wilt slightly.

To refresh, add a few new leaves and a tiny splash of lemon right before serving.

Why This is Good for You

• Light and nutrient-dense. Mâche offers vitamins A and C, plus folate and iron, without weighing you down.
• Fruit-forward fiber. Strawberries bring antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber that supports digestion and overall wellness.
• Balanced fats. A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
• Modest sweetness. A small amount of honey enhances flavor without turning the dish into dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using wet greens. Waterlogged mâche won’t hold up and will make the dressing slide off. Dry thoroughly.
• Overdressing. Too much dressing makes the skewers messy and soggy. A light drizzle is perfect.
• Overripe strawberries. You want firm, juicy fruit that holds its shape when skewered.
• Salting too early. Salt draws out moisture.

  If salting the strawberries, do it right before serving to keep them fresh.

• Skipping the pinch technique. When adding mâche to the skewer, pinch a small cluster between your fingers so it threads easily and doesn’t tear.

Variations You Can Try

• Balsamic twist. Swap lemon for balsamic vinegar and add a few drops of balsamic glaze on top for a sweet-tart finish.
• Goat cheese crumble. Replace mozzarella with small pieces of creamy goat cheese. Assemble carefully, as goat cheese is softer.
• Prosciutto ribbons. Add a thin ribbon of prosciutto for a salty, savory contrast that plays well with strawberries.
• Nut-free crunch. Use toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a safe, nut-free topping.
• Citrus-herb vibe. Add orange zest to the dressing and swap mint for basil or tarragon.
• Grilled note. Lightly grill halved strawberries for 1–2 minutes to deepen their sweetness, then cool before assembling.
• Vegan option. Skip the mozzarella and use a plant-based feta or cubes of firm avocado (add just before serving).

FAQ

Can I use a different green if I can’t find mâche?

Yes. Baby spinach or baby arugula works well.

Spinach is mild and soft; arugula adds peppery bite. If using arugula, keep the dressing slightly sweeter to balance the spice.

Do I need to hull the strawberries?

Yes, hull them for easier eating and a cleaner look. If your strawberries are very small, you can keep them whole after hulling.

Otherwise, cut into halves or quarters.

How far in advance can I assemble the skewers?

Assemble up to 2–3 hours ahead without dressing and keep covered in the fridge. Add the dressing and nuts right before serving to maintain texture.

What kind of skewers should I use?

Short wooden skewers or sturdy cocktail picks are ideal. Look for ones with a flat end or knot, which makes them easier to grab and plate.

Can I make this without any added sweetener?

Absolutely.

If your strawberries are sweet, skip the honey. The lemon and olive oil will still brighten the flavors, and a pinch of salt will make the fruit pop.

Is mozzarella necessary?

No. The skewers are lovely with just fruit and greens.

Cheese adds creaminess, but the dish remains fresh and satisfying without it.

How do I keep the greens from tearing when threading?

Pinch a small tuft of mâche tightly and thread through the stems or thicker parts. If your picks are very sharp, angle them gently to avoid ripping the leaves.

What’s the best way to toast nuts?

Toast nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, shaking often, until fragrant and lightly golden. Let them cool before adding to the skewers.

In Conclusion

Mâche & Strawberry Skewers are simple, fresh, and pretty enough for any table.

With only a handful of ingredients, you get bright flavor, crisp texture, and an easy, healthy bite. Keep the dressing light, the strawberries firm, and the mâche dry. Once you make these, you’ll have a go-to snack or appetizer that always hits the right note—clean, seasonal, and delicious.