Strawberry salad with candied almonds and strawberry balsamic vinaigrette

As you can tell from the title, this salad is mouthwatering.  Local strawberries really make this combination so perfect! The recipe calls for goat cheese. I really really want to be a fan of the stuff because there are so many delicious recipes that use it. I am still working on it. If you are in the same boat just substitute goat cheese for another kind.

 Ingredients:
(amounts aren't exact, just use what you think is right for how many servings you need)
mixed greens
chevre (goat cheese)
strawberries, sliced
strawberry balsamic vinaigrette (recipe follows)
candied almonds (recipe follows)

arrange desired amounts of each ingredient on separate plates or toss in a large bowl.

Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette (makes about 1/2 cup)
5 large strawberries
2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp maple syrup or honey
1/4 tsp salt
1 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
-combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor

Candied Almonds
3 Tbsp brown sugar
1 Tbsp water
1/4 cup sliced almonds
-sprinkle brown sugar in a skillet set over medium heat. As it heats up add the water to help in dissolve. When the water boils off you will notice that the bubbles will start to thicken and turn darker. When the mixture turns thick add in the almonds. Toss to coat and allow to cool.