Strawberry Crunch Salad

This Strawberry Crunch Salad is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients, perfect for spring and summer meals. With its crunchy texture from the almonds and a creamy finish from the avocado and goat cheese, this salad stands out in any gathering. It’s versatile enough for picnics, light dinners, or as a side dish at barbecues. Enjoy the burst of flavors that make every bite refreshing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This salad is quick to assemble, requiring only 30 minutes from start to serve.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of strawberries, arugula, and creamy goat cheese creates a burst of taste that’s hard to resist.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with healthy fats from avocado and protein from goat cheese, it’s both satisfying and nourishing.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for various occasions—from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Dressing: The champagne vinaigrette can be made in advance, saving you time when serving.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Strawberry Crunch Salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Using the right tools will make preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Ideal for toasting almonds without them sticking or burning.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing all the salad ingredients together without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps combine the dressing ingredients smoothly for an even flavor.

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: Toast the 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 coats all of the almonds—about 6 to 8 minutes.
3. Stay attentive to prevent burning!
4. Transfer the almonds to parchment paper to cool. If they clump together, break them apart once cooled.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, toss arugula with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Add strawberries, avocado, goat cheese, pistachios, and sugared almonds.
3. Drizzle on your prepared dressing and toss well to combine.
4. Serve immediately!

Step 3: Make the Champagne Vinaigrette

1. In another large bowl, combine champagne vinegar, honey, lemon juice, dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk together until well mixed.
3. While whisking continuously, stream in olive oil until fully combined.
4. Store any leftover dressing in the fridge for up to one week.

Enjoy your vibrant Strawberry Crunch Salad as a refreshing dish that captures the essence of spring!

How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Salad

Strawberry Crunch Salad is a versatile dish perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this salad can be served in many delightful ways.

As a Light Lunch

• Pair with a crusty baguette – A crunchy baguette complements the freshness of the salad.
• Add grilled chicken – For extra protein, serve alongside or on top of grilled chicken strips.

At a Picnic

• Pack in a mason jar – Layer the ingredients in jars for easy transport and serving.
• Bring along refreshing drinks – Lemonade or iced tea pairs well with the vibrant flavors.

As a Side Dish

• Serve with grilled meats – The salad enhances the flavors of barbecued chicken or steak.
• Offer as part of a buffet – Place it on a table spread with other salads and sides for variety.

For Meal Prep

• Store in individual containers – Prepare portions ahead of time for quick grab-and-go lunches.
• Keep dressing separate – Prevent wilting by keeping the dressing in small containers until ready to eat.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Strawberry Crunch Salad

To elevate your Strawberry Crunch Salad, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh strawberries and greens make all the difference in taste and texture.
• Toast your nuts – Toasting almonds adds an extra layer of flavor, making them more aromatic.
• Adjust sweetness – Modify the amount of honey based on your preference for sweetness; you can even substitute with maple syrup.
• Mix up the greens – Experiment with different types of greens like spinach or mixed baby greens for variety.
• Add herbs – Fresh herbs like basil or mint can introduce new flavors to your salad.
• Drizzle before serving – Dress the salad right before serving to maintain crunchiness.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Crunch Salad

Strawberry Crunch Salad pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its vibrant flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetables – Colorful veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add smokiness and are easy to prepare on the grill.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – A light quinoa dish seasoned with herbs offers additional protein and is filling without being heavy.
3. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the salad’s texture.
4. Fruit Platter – An assortment of seasonal fruits brings freshness and balances out savory flavors from other dishes.
5. Cheese Board – A selection of cheeses pairs well with the sweet notes in the salad, enhancing your dining experience.
6. Couscous Salad – A light couscous salad featuring lemon and herbs can enhance the meal while keeping it light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Crunch Salad, it’s easy to overlook essential steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using stale nuts: Fresh nuts add crunch and flavor. Always check the expiration date and store them properly to maintain their freshness.
• Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can make your salad soggy. Start with a little and add more as needed to ensure every bite is flavorful without being drenched.
• Skipping the sugar for the almonds: Sugared almonds give a delightful sweetness and crunch. Make sure to caramelize them properly for that perfect texture.
• Not preparing ingredients ahead: Having everything chopped and ready saves time. Prep your strawberries, avocado, and other ingredients before assembling the salad for a smoother experience.
• Ignoring seasoning: A pinch of salt and pepper enhances flavors. Don’t skip this step; it can elevate your dish from good to amazing.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad is best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Strawberry Crunch Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture change in greens and fresh ingredients.
• If you must freeze, consider separating components (like dressing) beforehand.

Reheating Strawberry Crunch Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, spread salad on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through, but be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat, stirring often to avoid wilting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Strawberry Crunch Salad that can help you prepare this dish perfectly.

Can I customize my Strawberry Crunch Salad?

Absolutely! You can add nuts or fruits based on your preferences. Try swapping pistachios with walnuts or adding blueberries for extra color.

What are the health benefits of Strawberry Crunch Salad?

This salad is rich in vitamins from strawberries and healthy fats from avocado. It’s a nutritious choice for any meal!

How long does Strawberry Crunch Salad last?

When stored properly in the fridge, it lasts up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Is Strawberry Crunch Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Prep ingredients ahead of time but assemble them just before serving to keep everything crunchy.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Crunch Salad is a delightful addition to your spring and summer meals. Its vibrant colors and textures make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or dressings! Give this refreshing recipe a try; it’s sure to become a staple at your table.