Strawberry Crunch Salad

This Strawberry Crunch Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it the perfect dish for spring and summer gatherings. With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, this salad is not only visually appealing but also versatile enough to serve at picnics, barbecues, or as a light dinner option. The combination of crunchy nuts, creamy goat cheese, and juicy strawberries provides a unique taste experience that will impress your guests.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Crunchy Topping
• For the Salad Base
• For the Dressing
• How to Make Strawberry Crunch Salad
• Step 1: Prepare the Sugared Almonds
• Step 2: Toss the Salad Ingredients
• Step 3: Make the Champagne Vinaigrette
• Step 4: Serve Immediately
• How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Salad
• Brunch Delight
• Picnic Perfect
• Dinner Party Side
• Healthy Snack Option
• How to Perfect Strawberry Crunch Salad
• Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Crunch Salad
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Strawberry Crunch Salad
• Reheating Strawberry Crunch Salad
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How can I customize my Strawberry Crunch Salad?
• Is Strawberry Crunch Salad healthy?
• Can I make Strawberry Crunch Salad ahead of time?
• What can I serve with Strawberry Crunch Salad?
• What should I do with leftover dressing?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This salad can be made in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The mix of arugula, strawberries, and avocado creates a refreshing taste that screams summer.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad offers a nutritious option without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion like Mother’s Day, this salad fits right in!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Strawberry Crunch Salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Ideal for cooking the sugared almonds without them sticking or burning.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to toss all ingredients together without making a mess.
• Whisk: Ensures that the dressing emulsifies properly for a creamy texture.

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 Sugared Almonds

1. Place the almonds in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
2. Stir in the sugar and cook while stirring often until the sugar melts and caramelizes, about 6 to 8 minutes.
3. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning! Transfer to parchment paper to cool. Break apart any clumps if necessary.

Step 2: Toss the Salad Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, toss the arugula with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Add in the strawberries, avocado, goat cheese, pistachios, and cooled sugared almonds.
3. Drizzle your homemade dressing over the salad mixture.

Step 3: Make the Champagne Vinaigrette

1. In another large bowl, combine champagne vinegar, honey, lemon juice, dijon mustard, grated garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk together until well mixed.
3. Slowly stream in olive oil while whisking constantly until it emulsifies into a smooth dressing.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Toss everything gently but thoroughly so each ingredient is coated with dressing. Enjoy this vibrant Strawberry Crunch Salad right away for maximum freshness!

How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Salad

Strawberry Crunch Salad is a versatile dish perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a casual dinner, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Brunch Delight

• Pair with mimosas for a refreshing start to your day. The lightness of the salad complements the bubbly drink perfectly.
• Serve alongside quiche for a savory contrast. A cheese or vegetable quiche can balance the sweetness of the strawberries.

Picnic Perfect

• Pack in individual jars for easy transportation. Layer ingredients to keep everything fresh and crunchy until you’re ready to eat.
• Accompany with fresh fruit skewers for added color and flavor. Choose seasonal fruits like melon or pineapple to enhance your picnic spread.

Dinner Party Side

• Present as a side dish to grilled meats. The crunchiness of the salad pairs well with chicken or salmon, making for an elegant meal.
• Offer with crusty bread on the side. A good baguette or artisan bread is great for scooping up any leftover dressing.

Healthy Snack Option

• Enjoy as a mid-afternoon snack. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, keeping you energized throughout the day.

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How to Perfect Strawberry Crunch Salad

To ensure your Strawberry Crunch Salad is always a hit, follow these simple tips.

• Choose ripe strawberries: Select berries that are sweet and juicy for the best flavor.
• Make ahead: Prepare the sugared almonds and vinaigrette in advance. This saves time when assembling your salad.
• Add protein: Consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein, making it more filling.
• Keep ingredients separate: If prepping ahead, store components separately to maintain freshness and crunch.
• Experiment with greens: Mix arugula with spinach or kale for varied textures and flavors.
• Adjust dressing to taste: Feel free to tweak the vinaigrette ingredients based on your preference—add more honey for sweetness or lemon juice for tanginess.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Crunch Salad

Strawberry Crunch Salad can shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Juicy chicken marinated in herbs enhances the salad’s fresh flavors.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a warm, hearty addition.
3. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad adds an extra layer of texture and nutrition alongside the crunch of this dish.
4. Cheesy Garlic Bread – Warm garlic bread offers a satisfying contrast to the freshness of the salad.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans make an appealing and nutritious side.
6. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a classic pairing that complements strawberry flavors beautifully.
7. Fruit Platter – A vibrant fruit platter can enhance the meal’s light and refreshing theme.
8. Pasta Primavera – Lightly sautéed pasta mixed with seasonal vegetables provides a comforting yet healthy option next to your salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Strawberry Crunch Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the almonds: Almonds can burn quickly. Keep an eye on them while cooking and stir often to achieve the perfect caramelization.

• Using unripe strawberries: Always select ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor. Taste test before adding them to your salad.

• Not seasoning properly: A pinch of salt and pepper enhances the salad’s flavor. Don’t skip this step as it balances the sweetness of the strawberries.

• Skipping the dressing: The champagne vinaigrette ties all the ingredients together. Ensure you whisk it well for a smooth consistency before drizzling over your salad.

• Making it too far in advance: This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Prepare it just before serving to maintain its crunchiness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• • Container: Use glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids to keep freshness.
• • Ingredients: For best results, store the dressing separately until ready to serve.

Freezing Strawberry Crunch Salad

• • Duration: Not recommended for freezing due to texture changes in fresh ingredients.
• • Container: If necessary, use a freezer-safe container, but consume within one month.

Reheating Strawberry Crunch Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes. This method is not generally recommended as salads are best served cold.

• Microwave: Use low power settings for about 1-2 minutes if needed; however, this may wilt greens.

• Stovetop: Heat gently on low with a splash of water; be cautious not to overcook the vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Strawberry Crunch Salad that may help enhance your experience:

How can I customize my Strawberry Crunch Salad?

You can add nuts, seeds, or different types of cheese such as feta or blue cheese for added flavor and texture. Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or mint too!

Is Strawberry Crunch Salad healthy?

Yes! This salad is packed with nutrients from fresh fruits and greens, making it a great option for light meals or snacks.

Can I make Strawberry Crunch Salad ahead of time?

While you can prepare individual ingredients ahead of time, it is best to assemble the salad just before serving for optimal freshness.

What can I serve with Strawberry Crunch Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish. It also makes an excellent side dish for barbecues and picnics!

What should I do with leftover dressing?

Leftover dressing can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for up to one week. Use it on other salads or as a marinade!

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Crunch Salad is a delightful dish perfect for spring and summer meals. Its combination of textures and flavors make it not only refreshing but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or dressings! Give this recipe a try and enjoy its deliciousness at your next gathering.