Strawberry Crunch Salad
This Strawberry Crunch Salad is the perfect dish for spring and summer gatherings! Bursting with fresh flavors, it combines crunchy textures from almonds and pistachios with the creaminess of avocado and goat cheese. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, picnic, or just want a healthy meal at home, this salad shines in any setting. It’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it an excellent choice for celebrations and casual dinners alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of strawberries, avocado, and tangy goat cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor profile.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad is both wholesome and satisfying.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or a side dish; it pairs well with grilled meats or can stand alone as a light meal.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or holiday gatherings like Mother’s Day.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Strawberry Crunch Salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick skillet: Prevents almonds from sticking while allowing for even caramelization.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing ingredients without spills.
- Whisk: Essential for combining dressing ingredients smoothly.
- Parchment paper: Makes cleanup easier by preventing sticky residues from sugar-coated almonds.
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. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
- Transfer the almonds to a piece of parchment paper to cool, breaking up clumps as needed.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the arugula greens, adding a pinch of kosher salt and pepper.
- Gently fold in the strawberries, avocado, goat cheese, pistachios, and sugared almonds.
- Drizzle on the dressing (see step 3) and toss everything together gently. Serve immediately!
Step 3: Make the Champagne Vinaigrette
- In a separate large bowl, combine the champagne vinegar, honey, lemon juice, dijon mustard, grated garlic, salt, and pepper.
- While whisking continuously, slowly stream in the olive oil until well combined.
- Store any leftover 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
Serving Strawberry Crunch Salad is a delightful experience, perfect for warm days or festive gatherings. This vibrant salad not only looks beautiful but also offers a refreshing burst of flavor.
As a Light Lunch
- Pair with whole grain bread for a quick and healthy meal. The bread complements the crunchiness of the salad.
At a Picnic
- Serve in mason jars for easy transport. This makes it simple to enjoy outside without worrying about spills.
As a Side Dish
- It pairs well with grilled meats, adding freshness to your meal. The crunchy texture enhances the overall dining experience.
For Brunch
- Add this salad to your brunch spread alongside eggs and pastries. Its bright colors make it visually appealing on any table.
At Spring Gatherings
- Bring this salad to spring parties or Mother’s Day celebrations. It’s not only delicious but also a beautiful centerpiece.
How to Perfect Strawberry Crunch Salad
To achieve the best version of Strawberry Crunch Salad, consider these helpful tips for optimal flavor and texture.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh strawberries and crisp arugula elevate the taste. Always opt for seasonal produce when possible.
- Customize toppings: Feel free to add nuts or seeds beyond almonds and pistachios. This adds different textures and flavors to your salad.
- Make the dressing ahead: Prepare the champagne vinaigrette in advance. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve immediately: To maintain crunchiness, serve the salad right after tossing it with dressing. This prevents sogginess and keeps every bite enjoyable.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Crunch Salad
Strawberry Crunch Salad can shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy and flavorful, grilled chicken adds protein and pairs beautifully with the salad’s freshness.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf brings a hearty element that balances the lightness of the salad.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies introduces warmth and depth, making for a satisfying meal.
- Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses offers varied flavors that contrast nicely with the sweetness of strawberries.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread serves as a perfect accompaniment, ideal for soaking up any leftover dressing.
- Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit skewers enhance your spread while echoing the fruitiness in the salad.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad brings additional textures and flavors that complement strawberries wonderfully.
With these serving suggestions and side dish ideas, you’re all set to enjoy an amazing Strawberry Crunch Salad!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Strawberry Crunch Salad, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect taste and texture.
- Overcooking the Almonds: Be attentive while caramelizing the almonds. They can burn quickly, ruining their flavor. Stir continuously and watch closely until they are golden brown.
- Using Unripe Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries enhance the salad’s sweetness. Choose bright red berries for the best flavor and texture.
- Skipping the Dressing: The dressing is crucial for pulling the flavors together. Make sure to drizzle it over just before serving to keep your salad fresh and crunchy.
- Not Seasoning Properly: A pinch of salt and pepper elevates the flavors in your salad. Don’t forget this simple step!
- Assembling Too Early: For optimal crunchiness, avoid tossing all ingredients together too soon. Combine them right before serving for a fresh and vibrant dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Strawberry Crunch Salad
- Freezing is not recommended as ingredients like avocados and strawberries do not freeze well.
- If you must freeze, consider storing the dressing separately.
Reheating Strawberry Crunch Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes. This is best for any leftover components but may wilt greens.
- Microwave: Heat on low power for short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed through, avoiding overcooking.
- Stovetop: Use a nonstick skillet on low heat to warm ingredients gently without steaming them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common inquiries about making the perfect Strawberry Crunch Salad.
Can I customize my Strawberry Crunch Salad?
Yes! You can add other fruits or nuts based on your preference. Consider adding blueberries or walnuts for variety.
How do I make this salad vegan?
To make a vegan version of your Strawberry Crunch Salad, replace goat cheese with avocado or a plant-based cheese alternative.
What can I use instead of champagne vinegar?
You can substitute champagne vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar if needed. Both work well in dressings!
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
It’s best to assemble the salad right before serving to maintain its crunchiness. However, you can prepare the dressing in advance.
Final Thoughts
The Strawberry Crunch Salad is a delightful blend of freshness and texture, perfect for any spring or summer meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it suitable for various occasions. Give it a try and enjoy a refreshing dish that will impress your guests!
Strawberry Crunch Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the refreshing delight of Strawberry Crunch Salad, a vibrant dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. This salad is ideal for spring and summer gatherings, boasting a colorful mix of fresh strawberries, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese, all topped with a delightful crunch from caramelized almonds and pistachios. With its quick preparation time and nutritious ingredients, this salad not only looks beautiful but also nourishes your body, making it a versatile choice for any occasion—from picnics to brunches.
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup sliced or slivered almonds
- 10 ounces arugula greens
- 8 ounces strawberries (hulled and quartered)
- 1 avocado (chopped)
- 2 ounces crumbled goat cheese
- ⅓ cup roasted pistachios (chopped)
- 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
- Prepare the Crunch Topping: In a nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook almonds with sugar until caramelized (6-8 minutes). Transfer to parchment paper to cool.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, toss arugula with salt and pepper. Gently fold in strawberries, avocado, goat cheese, pistachios, and cooled almonds.
- Make the Dressing: Whisk together champagne vinegar, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil until well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Cooking/Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad (about 200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
