Strawberry Crunch Salad

This Strawberry Crunch Salad is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of spring and summer. It combines crunchy textures with fresh ingredients, making it perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light meal. The creamy avocado and tangy goat cheese elevate this salad to a new level, ensuring that every bite is both refreshing and satisfying.

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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 Crunch
• For the Salad Base
• For the Dressing
• How to Make Strawberry Crunch Salad
• Step 1: Toast the Almonds
• Step 2: Prepare the Salad
• Step 3: Make the Champagne Vinaigrette
• How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Salad
• As a Main Course
• For Gatherings
• With Grilled Proteins
• As a Side Dish
• 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?
• Can I make Strawberry Crunch Salad ahead of time?
• What other dressings work well with Strawberry Crunch Salad?
• Is Strawberry Crunch Salad suitable for special occasions?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: The use of seasonal strawberries and arugula brings vibrant flavors and nutrients to your table.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish or a main course, it adapts well to different occasions like picnics or dinner parties.
• Textural Delight: The combination of crunchy almonds and pistachios with creamy avocado creates an irresistible texture contrast.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with healthy fats from avocado and nuts, this salad is not only delicious but nutritious too.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. These will help you prepare the Strawberry Crunch Salad efficiently while ensuring great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Prevents almonds from sticking while toasting, allowing for easy cleanup.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Ensures a smooth dressing by effectively blending oil with other liquids.

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

• 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 completely, about 6 to 8 minutes.
3. Watch closely as they can burn quickly!
4. Transfer the toasted almonds onto a piece of parchment paper to cool. If they clump together, break them into pieces after cooling.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad

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 on your prepared dressing and toss everything gently but thoroughly. 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 blended.
3. While whisking continuously, stream in olive oil until emulsified.
4. Store any leftover dressing in the fridge for up to one week.

By following these simple steps, you’ll create an unforgettable Strawberry Crunch Salad that will impress at any gathering!

How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Salad

This Strawberry Crunch Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Course

• Serve it as a light lunch or dinner option for those warm days when you want something refreshing.

For Gatherings

• This salad makes a great dish for picnics or potlucks, offering a delightful combination of flavors that everyone will love.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal that is both healthy and satisfying.

As a Side Dish

• It complements roasted meats beautifully, adding a fresh crunch to any hearty meal.

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How to Perfect Strawberry Crunch Salad

To ensure your Strawberry Crunch Salad is absolutely perfect, follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh, ripe strawberries and crisp arugula for the best flavor and texture.

• Make the Dressing Ahead – Prepare the champagne vinaigrette in advance to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

• Customize Your Toppings – Feel free to add other nuts or seeds based on your preference for added crunch and nutrition.

• Serve Immediately – Toss the salad just before serving to maintain its fresh texture and vibrant color.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Crunch Salad

Pairing side dishes with this Strawberry Crunch Salad can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated chicken grilled to perfection adds protein and flavor to your meal.

2. Quinoa Pilaf – A light and fluffy side that complements the salad’s freshness while adding heartiness.

3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the tangy dressing of the salad.

4. Garlic Breadsticks – A crunchy side that provides a savory element alongside the fruity flavors of the salad.

5. Caprese Skewers – Easy-to-make skewers with mozzarella, tomatoes, and fresh basil offer a refreshing bite.

6. Vegetable Spring Rolls – Light and crispy, these rolls provide an Asian twist that pairs well with the salad’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Strawberry Crunch Salad, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish.

• Overcooking the Almonds: Almonds can burn quickly. Watch them closely while cooking to achieve a perfect caramel coating.
• Using Unripe Strawberries: Unripe strawberries lack sweetness. Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor in your salad.
• Not Tossing Ingredients Properly: If you don’t toss the salad correctly, flavors may not blend well. Ensure you mix all ingredients thoroughly for an even taste.
• Skipping the Dressing: The dressing adds essential flavor. Don’t skip it; instead, drizzle generously before serving for a delicious finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Strawberry Crunch Salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Crunch Salad

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the fresh ingredients.
• If necessary, separate components before freezing and consume within a month.

Reheating Strawberry Crunch Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking tray and warm it gently.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring frequently until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Strawberry Crunch Salad that might help you as you prepare this delightful dish.

How can I customize my Strawberry Crunch Salad?

You can customize your salad by adding different fruits like blueberries or nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

Can I make Strawberry Crunch Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare components separately and assemble them just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

What other dressings work well with Strawberry Crunch Salad?

Aside from champagne vinaigrette, a balsamic glaze or a citrus vinaigrette can complement the flavors beautifully.

Is Strawberry Crunch Salad suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it perfect for events like Mother’s Day or spring gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Crunch Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on your preference or season. Enjoy this salad as a light meal or a refreshing side dish at any gathering. Give it a try and discover how customizable and delightful it can be!