Make the pickled strawberries: In a large heat-safe bowl, place the strawberries, tarragon and thyme springs, and ground black pepper; set aside. In a small saucepan set over medium-high heat, bring to a simmer the rice vinegar, water, sugar and salt. Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the strawberries and cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (the strawberries keep up to 1½ weeks in the refrigerator).
Make the salad: In a small bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup of the strawberry pickling liquid, olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Divide the salad greens and fennel between four plates. Sprinkle each plate with ¼ cup pickled strawberries, drizzling with the vinaigrette. Top with crumbled cheese and serve.