This Strawberry Crunch Salad is a bright and crisp dish that mixes fresh strawberries, crunchy nuts, and greens. Topped with a zesty champagne vinaigrette, it’s perfect for any occasion!
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up this salad. It always impresses my guests, and I love the sweet and tangy flavors dancing together. It’s a party in a bowl! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Arugula: I love starting with arugula for its peppery flavor, but you can switch it out for spinach or mixed greens if you prefer a milder taste.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries give this salad a sweet kick. If strawberries are out of season, raspberries or blueberries can be great alternatives.
Avocado: This adds creaminess to the salad. If you’re avoiding avocados, try using diced cucumbers or even some cooked sweet potato for a similar texture.
Nuts: I often mix almonds and pistachios for crunch, but walnuts or pecans work beautifully too. Ensure they’re toasted for richer flavor!
Cheese: Goat cheese is delightful here, but if you’re not a fan, feta or even blue cheese can bring a nice tang. Dairy-free cheese can be used as a substitute as well for a vegan option.
How Do I Whisk Together the Perfect Vinaigrette?
The vinaigrette ties this salad together, and making it is easy! Start by combining the vinegar, honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option), and Dijon mustard in a bowl. The mustard helps emulsify the dressing, so don’t skip it!
- Whisk until blended, then gradually add the olive oil while whisking continuously. This helps combine the oil and vinegar smoothly.
- Finish with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness by adding more honey or syrup if you like it on the sweeter side.
Feel free to tweak the amounts based on your taste preferences! Enjoy crafting your perfect dressing!
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh arugula (or mixed greens)
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup unsalted toasted almonds, chopped
- 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
- 1/2 cup goat cheese or feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Champagne Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup champagne vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes around 15 minutes to prepare from start to finish. Plus, it’s a fresh dish that is best enjoyed immediately, making it a quick and delightful addition to any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad:
Start by taking a large salad bowl and adding the arugula or mixed greens as your base. Next, layer it with the sliced strawberries, diced avocado, chopped almonds, and chopped pistachios. Add the crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese on top, and sprinkle the sliced red onion if you want an extra crunch! Finally, season your salad with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
2. Make the Vinaigrette:
In a small bowl, whisk together the champagne vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey or maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Keep whisking until everything is well combined and smooth. Don’t forget to add a little salt and pepper to enhance the flavor!
3. Combine:
Right before serving, drizzle the homemade vinaigrette over the salad. Gently toss the salad with your hands or a large spoon to ensure all the ingredients are coated nicely with the vinaigrette.
4. Serve:
It’s time to enjoy your delicious Strawberry Crunch Salad! Serve it fresh and immediately for the best texture. If you feel it needs a little extra flavor, feel free to adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper to your liking.
This colorful and crunchy salad mixes sweet and savory flavors, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Greens Instead of Arugula?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of arugula, you can substitute it with mixed greens, spinach, or kale for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture will vary slightly based on your choice.
How Long Can I Store the Salad?
It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh, but you can store leftover ingredients separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you’ve already dressed the salad, it may get soggy, so store the vinaigrette separately and dress just before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Champagne Vinegar?
If you don’t have champagne vinegar, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be excellent alternatives. They will provide a similar tangy flavor, so feel free to use what you have on hand!
Can I Make the Vinaigrette Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the vinaigrette ahead of time! Just store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. Shake it well before using, as the ingredients may separate. This will save you time on busy days!
