Strawberry Crunch Salad
This Strawberry Crunch Salad is the perfect dish for spring and summer! Bursting with fresh strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy textures, it’s deliciously satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, preparing a light dinner, or looking for a refreshing side dish, this salad fits the bill. Its unique combination of flavors and ingredients makes it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Fresh Ingredients: Featuring seasonal strawberries and greens, this salad is packed with vitamins and nutrients.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of strawberries complements the creaminess of avocado and tanginess of goat cheese.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or a side; it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a picnic spread.
- Make-Ahead Dressing: The champagne vinaigrette can be prepared in advance, saving you time on meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
To create your delicious Strawberry Crunch Salad, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick skillet: Prevents sticking while caramelizing almonds, ensuring even cooking without burning.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing all ingredients together without spilling.
- Whisk: Essential for combining dressing ingredients smoothly to achieve the perfect vinaigrette.
Ingredients
This strawberry salad is the best spring and summer meal! Super crunchy and textured with avocado and goat cheese. Absolutely delicious.
For the Crunchy Topping
- ⅔ cup sliced or slivered almonds
- 3 tablespoons sugar
For the Salad Base
- 10 ounces arugula greens
- 8 ounces strawberries (hulled and quartered or chopped)
- 1 avocado (chopped)
- 2 ounces crumbled goat cheese
- ⅓ cup roasted salted pistachios (chopped)
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons champagne vinegar
- 1/2 lemon (juiced)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove (freshly grated)
- Pinch kosher salt and pepper
- 1/2 cup olive oil
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
- Place the almonds in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Stir in the sugar, cooking while stirring often until it melts and coats the almonds—about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Watch closely to avoid burning! Once done, transfer them to parchment paper to cool. Break any clumps apart.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the arugula greens, adding a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Add in the prepared strawberries, chopped avocado, crumbled goat cheese, chopped pistachios, and cooled sugared almonds.
- Drizzle on your prepared dressing from Step 3 below, tossing well to combine. Serve immediately!
Step 3: Make the Champagne Vinaigrette
- In a large bowl, whisk together the following ingredients:
- champagne vinegar
- honey
- lemon juice
- dijon mustard
- grated garlic
- A pinch of salt and pepper
- While whisking constantly, stream in the olive oil. Continue whisking until fully combined.
- Store any leftover dressing in the fridge for up to one week.
Enjoy your delightful Strawberry Crunch Salad, perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Salad
Serving Strawberry Crunch Salad is a delightful experience that can elevate any meal. The crunchy textures and vibrant flavors make it perfect for various occasions, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings.
As a Refreshing Side Dish
- Barbecues: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, adding a fresh contrast.
- Picnics: Pack this salad in a portable container for a light and satisfying picnic meal.
- Potlucks: Its colorful presentation makes it an eye-catching dish for potluck events.
As a Light Main Course
- Lunch Option: Enjoy it on its own for a healthy and filling lunch.
- Brunch Delight: Serve alongside quiches or frittatas for a delightful brunch spread.
- Dinner Starter: Offer it as an appetizer before the main course at dinner parties.
With Additional Proteins
- Grilled Chicken: Add sliced grilled chicken on top to turn it into a hearty meal.
- Shrimp Toss: Incorporate sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist that complements the salad’s flavors.
How to Perfect Strawberry Crunch Salad
Perfecting your Strawberry Crunch Salad is all about balance and freshness. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest strawberries and greens to enhance flavor.
- Customize Texture: Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or seeds for added crunch.
- Make Ahead Dressing: Prepare the dressing in advance to let flavors meld before serving.
- Season Well: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they enhance all the other flavors in the salad.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Crunch Salad
Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Crunch Salad can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky corn complements the vibrant flavors of the salad perfectly.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes provide a classic Italian touch that pairs well with strawberries.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks offer a comforting contrast to the crisp salad.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and warmth alongside the coolness of the salad.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa dish will add protein and texture without overpowering your meal.
- Hummus Platter: A selection of hummus with pita chips makes for a fun and interactive side option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Strawberry Crunch Salad, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.
- Overcooking the almonds: Cooking the almonds too long can lead to burnt pieces. Keep a close eye on them and remove from heat once they are caramelized.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale or old produce will detract from the salad’s freshness. Always choose ripe strawberries and crisp arugula for the best taste.
- Skipping the dressing: The dressing enhances flavor significantly. Don’t skip it; ensure you whisk it well for a balanced taste.
- Adding ingredients too early: Combine the salad just before serving to prevent sogginess. Add delicate items like goat cheese and avocado last.
- Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season properly can leave your salad bland. Use salt and pepper generously to enhance all flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep dressing separate until ready to serve for freshness.
Freezing Strawberry Crunch Salad
- It is not recommended to freeze this salad as it may affect the texture of the ingredients.
Reheating Strawberry Crunch Salad
- Oven: Not needed, best enjoyed cold.
- Microwave: Not suitable; ingredients will become mushy.
- Stovetop: Not applicable; serve fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Strawberry Crunch Salad that might help you when preparing this dish.
What is Strawberry Crunch Salad?
Strawberry Crunch Salad is a vibrant dish combining fresh strawberries, crunchy nuts, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese, creating a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
Can I make Strawberry Crunch Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare most ingredients in advance but mix them together right before serving to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for goat cheese in Strawberry Crunch Salad?
You can use feta cheese or even a vegan cheese alternative if you’re looking for a different flavor profile or dietary option.
How can I customize my Strawberry Crunch Salad?
Feel free to add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, swap nuts based on preference, or include other fruits like blueberries or mangoes for variety.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Crunch Salad is an exceptional choice for spring and summer meals. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it incredibly versatile! Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or dressings. Enjoy this delightful dish at picnics, barbecues, or as a light dinner option!
Strawberry Crunch Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of Strawberry Crunch Salad, an ideal dish for spring and summer gatherings. This delightful salad features luscious strawberries, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese, all atop a bed of fresh arugula. The crunchy almond topping adds a satisfying texture, while the homemade champagne vinaigrette ties everything together beautifully. Perfect as a refreshing side for barbecues or enjoyed as a light meal on its own, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and nutrients. Prepare it in just 30 minutes, making it an effortless addition to your seasonal menus.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces arugula greens
- 8 ounces strawberries (hulled and quartered or chopped)
- 1 avocado (chopped)
- 2 ounces crumbled goat cheese
- ⅓ cup roasted salted pistachios (chopped)
- ⅔ cup sliced or slivered almonds
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons champagne vinegar
- 1/2 lemon (juiced)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove (freshly grated)
- Pinch kosher salt and pepper
- 1/2 cup olive oil
Instructions
- In a nonstick skillet over medium heat, toast sliced almonds with sugar until caramelized—about 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer to parchment paper to cool.
- In a large bowl, toss arugula with salt and pepper. Add strawberries, avocado, goat cheese, pistachios, and cooled almonds.
- For the dressing: whisk together champagne vinegar, honey, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, salt, pepper; slowly incorporate olive oil until combined.
- Drizzle dressing over salad just before serving and toss gently to combine.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
