This Strawberry Crunch Salad is a delightful dish perfect for spring and summer. Loaded with fresh ingredients, it offers a satisfying crunch from almonds and pistachios, paired beautifully with creamy avocado and tangy goat cheese. Ideal for picnics or family dinners, this salad not only tastes incredible but also shines on special occasions like Mother’s Day.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Crunch Topping
- For the Salad Base
- For the Dressing
- How to Make Strawberry Crunch Salad
- Step 1: Prepare the Crunch Topping
- Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- Step 3: Make the Champagne Vinaigrette
- How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Salad
- As a Main Course
- With Grilled Proteins
- On a Buffet Table
- In Individual Bowls
- As a Picnic Delight
- 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
- Can I make Strawberry Crunch Salad ahead of time?
- What variations can I try with Strawberry Crunch Salad?
- How do I store leftover Strawberry Crunch Salad?
- Is Strawberry Crunch Salad healthy?
- What should I serve with Strawberry Crunch Salad?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal cooking, this salad comes together quickly.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy nuts creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Versatile Dish: This salad works well as a side dish or a light main course, making it suitable for various meals.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh greens and fruits, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and textures make it an eye-catching addition to your table.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your Strawberry Crunch Salad, you’ll need some essential tools that make the process smooth and easy.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick skillet: Prevents the almonds from sticking while caramelizing, ensuring they cook evenly without burning.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing ingredients together without spilling.
- Whisk: Helps in emulsifying the dressing ingredients thoroughly for maximum flavor integration.
Ingredients
This strawberry salad is the best spring and summer meal! Super crunchy and textured with avocado and goat cheese. Absolutely delicious.
For the Crunch 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 Crunch 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. Stay attentive to prevent burning!
- Transfer the almonds onto parchment paper to cool. If clumped, break them into pieces after cooling.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the arugula greens with a pinch of kosher salt and pepper.
- Add in the strawberries, avocado, goat cheese, pistachios, and cooled sugared almonds.
- Drizzle on your dressing (see next step) and toss everything well. Serve immediately!
Step 3: Make the Champagne Vinaigrette
- In another large bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- champagne vinegar
- honey
- lemon juice
- dijon mustard
- grated garlic
- A pinch of salt and pepper.
- Whisk these together while streaming in the olive oil until it emulsifies into a smooth dressing.
- Store any remaining dressing in the fridge for up to one week.
Enjoy your refreshing Strawberry Crunch Salad, perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Salad
Strawberry Crunch Salad is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.
As a Main Course
- Serve larger portions of the salad as a standalone meal. The combination of greens, avocado, and goat cheese makes it filling and satisfying.
With Grilled Proteins
- Pair this salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. The smoky flavor complements the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.
On a Buffet Table
- Include Strawberry Crunch Salad on a buffet alongside other dishes. Its vibrant colors and textures make it an appealing choice for guests.
In Individual Bowls
- Present the salad in individual bowls for a more formal touch. This makes serving easy and adds a personal element to each guest’s experience.
As a Picnic Delight
- Pack Strawberry Crunch Salad for picnics. The crunchy elements maintain their texture, making it perfect for outdoor dining.
How to Perfect Strawberry Crunch Salad
To ensure your Strawberry Crunch Salad shines at every gathering, follow these simple tips.
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh and ripe strawberries and avocados for the best flavor.
- Crunchy Toppings: Toast almonds and pistachios just before serving to enhance their crunchiness.
- Balanced Dressing: Adjust the dressing ingredients to taste; more honey can sweeten it up if desired.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors and keep it cool on hot days.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Crunch Salad
Strawberry Crunch Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a nice earthy flavor that complements the salad.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa dish with herbs provides a hearty yet healthy side.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness enhances the fruity notes of the salad while adding texture.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy bread option that balances out the freshness of the salad.
- Mediterranean Couscous: Flavored with feta and olives, this dish brings additional zest to your meal.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on skewers create a fun finger food option that matches well with salads.
- Cold Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can complement the flavors without overpowering them.
- Fruit Platter: Enhance the fruitiness of your meal with assorted seasonal fruits like melons or citrus slices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Strawberry Crunch Salad, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the taste and presentation.
- Overcooking the Almonds: Cooking almonds for too long can lead to burning. Keep a close eye on them and stir often to ensure they caramelize perfectly.
- Skipping the Dressing: A delicious salad needs a good dressing. Don’t forget to whisk together the ingredients for the champagne vinaigrette, as it ties all the flavors together.
- Using Unripe Strawberries: Unripe strawberries are not sweet and juicy. Choose ripe, bright red strawberries for the best flavor in your salad.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season your salad can result in blandness. Always add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste.
- Adding Avocado Too Early: Slicing avocado too early can cause browning. Add it just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
Freezing Strawberry Crunch Salad
- It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the fresh ingredients.
- If necessary, you can freeze the sugared almonds separately for later use.
Reheating Strawberry Crunch Salad
- Oven: Reheat any leftovers at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use medium heat for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Crunch Salad:
Can I make Strawberry Crunch Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare most components ahead of time. However, it’s best to add avocado and dressing just before serving for optimal freshness.
What variations can I try with Strawberry Crunch Salad?
You can customize this salad by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or swapping goat cheese for feta or blue cheese based on your preference.
How do I store leftover Strawberry Crunch Salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Is Strawberry Crunch Salad healthy?
Absolutely! This salad is packed with nutrients from fresh greens, fruits, and healthy fats from avocado and nuts.
What should I serve with Strawberry Crunch Salad?
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a side dish at barbecues and gatherings.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Crunch Salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that makes it perfect for spring and summer meals. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your taste preferences. Whether served as a side dish or a main meal, this salad is sure to impress. Give it a try!
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Strawberry Crunch Salad
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Strawberry Crunch Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring and summer. Bursting with flavor, this salad combines sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese, all topped with a satisfying crunch from toasted almonds and pistachios. It’s an ideal choice for picnics, family dinners, or special occasions like Mother’s Day. Whether served as a light main course or a side dish, this delightful salad will impress your guests with its beautiful presentation and delicious taste. Experience the perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite!
Ingredients
- 10 ounces arugula greens
- 8 ounces strawberries (hulled and quartered)
- 1 avocado (chopped)
- 2 ounces crumbled goat cheese
- ⅓ cup roasted salted pistachios (chopped)
- ⅔ cup sliced almonds
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- For the dressing: champagne vinegar, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the crunch topping by toasting sliced almonds with sugar in a nonstick skillet over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes until caramelized. Transfer to parchment paper to cool.
- In a large mixing 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 and pepper in another bowl while gradually adding olive oil until emulsified.
- Drizzle dressing over the salad mix just before serving and toss gently to combine.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
