This Strawberry Crunch Salad is an ideal dish for spring and summer gatherings. Its vibrant colors, crunchy textures, and refreshing flavors make it a standout choice for picnics, barbecues, or any casual meal. With creamy avocado and tangy goat cheese, this salad not only satisfies but also impresses guests. It’s a simple yet elegant way to enjoy seasonal produce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese creates an irresistible taste.
- Easy to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with greens and nutrient-rich toppings, this salad is both nutritious and filling.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or main dish; it pairs well with grilled meats or can stand alone as a light meal.
- Great for Meal Prep: The components can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to assemble the salad fresh when needed.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Strawberry Crunch Salad, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick skillet: Prevents almonds from sticking and burning while caramelizing.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing all salad ingredients without making a mess.
- Whisk: Ensures that the dressing emulsifies properly, blending all ingredients seamlessly.
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: Caramelize the Almonds
- Place the almonds in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Stir in the sugar.
- Cook while stirring often until the sugar melts and coats the almonds—about 6 to 8 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning!
- Transfer almonds to parchment paper to cool. Break apart if clumped.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Components
- In a large bowl, toss arugula with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Add strawberries, avocado, goat cheese, pistachios, and cooled sugared almonds.
Step 3: Make the Champagne Vinaigrette
- In a separate bowl, combine champagne vinegar, honey, lemon juice, dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk together until blended.
- Slowly stream in olive oil while whisking continuously until dressing emulsifies.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Drizzle dressing over the salad mixture.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Serve immediately for maximum freshness!
Enjoy your delightful Strawberry Crunch Salad at any occasion!
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Salad
Strawberry Crunch Salad is a delightful dish that shines on warm days. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it an excellent choice for various occasions.
As a Main Dish
- Pair it with grilled chicken for a satisfying meal.
- Add quinoa or farro to make it heartier and more filling.
As a Side Dish
- Serve alongside barbecue dishes to complement smoky flavors.
- It works well with fish tacos, adding a fresh crunch.
At Picnics or Gatherings
- Pack it in a portable container for outdoor events.
- Dress the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.
With Different Dressings
- Experiment with balsamic vinaigrette for a sweet twist.
- Try adding a citrus dressing to enhance the bright strawberry flavor.
How to Perfect Strawberry Crunch Salad
To make your Strawberry Crunch Salad truly exceptional, consider these handy tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your strawberries and arugula are as fresh as possible for the best flavor.
- Toast your nuts: Toasting almonds and pistachios before adding them enhances their flavor and crunch.
- Adjust sweetness: Modify the amount of honey in the dressing based on your taste preferences.
- Serve immediately: For maximum crunch, serve the salad right after tossing to keep the ingredients crisp.
- Add herbs: Fresh mint or basil can elevate the flavor profile of your salad.
- Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill briefly in the fridge allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Crunch Salad
Serving Strawberry Crunch Salad alongside complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of corn pairs well with strawberries.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their earthiness contrasts nicely with the salad’s freshness.
- Garlic Bread: A crispy option that balances the lightness of the salad.
- Caprese Skewers: Mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil add a classic Italian touch.
- Chickpea Salad: A protein-rich side that adds texture without overpowering flavors.
- Cucumber & Feta Salad: Refreshing, this dish complements the tangy goat cheese in the main salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Strawberry Crunch Salad can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the almonds – Cooking the almonds too long can lead to burnt pieces. Keep a close eye on them while they caramelize.
- Skipping the dressing – The dressing is essential for flavor. Don’t skip it; instead, whisk it together thoroughly for the best taste.
- Using unripe strawberries – Select ripe, sweet strawberries for maximum flavor. Check for bright red color and a pleasant scent.
- Neglecting to season – A pinch of salt and pepper can elevate your salad. Always season your ingredients before mixing them together.
- Not serving immediately – This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Serve right after tossing to preserve its crunchiness and texture.
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
- Freezing is not recommended as the ingredients may lose their texture and quality when thawed.
Reheating Strawberry Crunch Salad
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad lightly on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes if you prefer warm ingredients.
- Microwave – Warm individual portions in short bursts (15-20 seconds) to avoid wilting the greens.
- Stovetop – Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Strawberry Crunch Salad.
What makes Strawberry Crunch Salad special?
This salad combines fresh strawberries with crunchy textures from nuts and creamy goat cheese, creating a delightful dish that’s perfect for spring and summer.
Can I customize the ingredients in my Strawberry Crunch Salad?
Absolutely! You can substitute different nuts or cheeses based on your preference. Add other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for extra flavor.
How long does it take to make Strawberry Crunch Salad?
The total time is about 30 minutes, with 25 minutes of prep and just 5 minutes of cooking time to prepare those delicious sugared almonds.
Is Strawberry Crunch Salad healthy?
Yes! It features fresh greens, fruits, and healthy fats from avocado and nuts. It’s both nutritious and satisfying!
Final Thoughts
The Strawberry Crunch Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress at any gathering!
Strawberry Crunch Salad
Indulge in the refreshing flavors of Strawberry Crunch Salad, a perfect dish for spring and summer gatherings. This vibrant salad combines juicy strawberries, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese, all topped with a crunchy almond mixture for added texture. It’s not only delicious but incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for picnics, barbecues, or light meals. With its colorful presentation and nutritious ingredients, this salad is sure to impress your guests while satisfying your taste buds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
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, combine sliced almonds and sugar. Stir until the sugar melts and coats the almonds (about 6-8 minutes). 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.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together champagne vinegar, honey, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Gradually add olive oil while whisking until emulsified.
- Drizzle dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately for optimal freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
