Strawberry Crunch Salad
This Strawberry Crunch Salad is a delightful mix of fresh ingredients, making it the perfect dish for spring and summer gatherings. Bursting with flavor from strawberries, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese, this salad is sure to impress at picnics, barbecues, or even as a light dinner option. Its crunchy texture from toasted almonds and pistachios adds an exciting twist, making it not only tasty but visually appealing too.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this salad comes together quickly.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet strawberries and savory goat cheese creates a balanced taste that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Versatile Dish: This salad works well as a side or a main course, perfect for any occasion from casual lunches to festive dinners.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious greens and healthy fats from avocado and nuts, this salad is both satisfying and wholesome.
- Stunning Presentation: The vibrant colors of strawberries and greens make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any table.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick skillet: Perfect for toasting almonds without them sticking or burning.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing all ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: Ensures your dressing combines smoothly for even flavor distribution.
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: Toast the Almonds
- Place the almonds in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Stir in the sugar and cook while stirring often until the sugar melts, creating a caramel coating on the almonds—about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
- Transfer the almonds to parchment paper to cool. Break into pieces if clumped together.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base
- In a large bowl, toss the arugula with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Add in the strawberries, avocado, goat cheese, pistachios, and sugared almonds.
- Drizzle on your dressing and toss everything well to combine.
- Serve immediately for maximum crunch!
Step 3: Make the Champagne Vinaigrette
- In another large bowl, combine champagne vinegar, honey, lemon juice, dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk together until mixed thoroughly.
- Stream in olive oil while constantly whisking until emulsified.
- Store any leftover dressing in the fridge for up to one week.
Enjoy your refreshing Strawberry Crunch Salad, perfect for any spring or summer occasion!
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Salad
Strawberry Crunch Salad is a refreshing dish that shines in spring and summer. Its vibrant colors and crunchy textures make it perfect for various occasions. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
As a Main Course
- Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a satisfying meal. The salad’s freshness enhances the flavors of the protein.
At Picnics or BBQs
- This salad is ideal for outdoor gatherings. Its bright flavors and textures are sure to impress guests.
As a Side Dish
- Serve alongside hearty dishes like roasted vegetables or pasta. The salad adds a light, refreshing contrast.
For Brunch
- Present it as part of a brunch spread. Its colorful appeal makes it an attractive choice for gatherings with friends.
With Homemade Bread
- Enjoy with slices of crusty bread or rolls. The crunchiness of the salad pairs perfectly with soft, warm bread.
How to Perfect Strawberry Crunch Salad
To ensure your Strawberry Crunch Salad is absolutely delicious, follow these simple tips.
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh strawberries and greens enhance flavor and texture. Always opt for seasonal produce when possible.
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Toast almonds carefully: Watch the almonds closely while cooking to avoid burning them. A golden-brown color indicates they are ready.
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Chill the dressing: Refrigerate the vinaigrette before serving to let the flavors meld together and provide a refreshing taste.
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Add avocado last: To maintain its creamy texture, add chopped avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Crunch Salad
Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Crunch Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:
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Grilled Chicken: Seasoned grilled chicken breasts complement the salad’s freshness while providing protein.
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Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with herbs enhances the meal without overpowering the salad’s flavors.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add warmth and depth, balancing the coolness of the salad.
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Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring a comforting sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the tangy dressing.
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Pasta Primavera: A light pasta dish filled with seasonal vegetables works well as a side, especially during springtime.
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Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses pairs nicely with both the salad and wine, creating a sophisticated appetizer option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Strawberry Crunch Salad to new heights. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Overcooking almonds: It’s easy to burn almonds when caramelizing them. Stay close and stir often while cooking them to achieve a perfect golden color.
- Ignoring the freshness of ingredients: Using old or wilted greens can ruin the salad’s appeal. Always opt for fresh arugula and ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season the salad can lead to blandness. A pinch of salt and pepper enhances the flavors of all ingredients.
- Not mixing the dressing properly: If the dressing isn’t emulsified, it won’t coat the salad well. Whisk continuously while adding olive oil to ensure it blends perfectly.
- Serving too late: This salad is best enjoyed immediately after tossing. Serve right away to maintain its crunchiness and vibrant taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Strawberry Crunch Salad
- Not recommended due to texture changes in greens and avocado.
- If needed, freeze individual components separately, like nuts.
Reheating Strawberry Crunch Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm components gently without overcooking.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container; heat in short intervals at medium power.
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, stirring gently until just heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about preparing a delicious Strawberry Crunch Salad.
Can I make Strawberry Crunch Salad ahead of time?
You can prepare most components ahead but combine them just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
What variations can I try with Strawberry Crunch Salad?
Feel free to add other fruits like blueberries or even nuts such as walnuts for added flavor and texture.
How can I make Strawberry Crunch Salad vegan?
Substitute goat cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative, and replace honey with maple syrup for sweetness.
What should I serve with Strawberry Crunch Salad?
This refreshing salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, making it a perfect side dish for summer meals.
Final Thoughts
The Strawberry Crunch Salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors that makes it an excellent choice for spring and summer dining. This versatile dish allows plenty of customization; feel free to experiment with different nuts, cheeses, or fruits. Give this recipe a try—I’m sure you’ll love it!
Strawberry Crunch Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: American
Description
Discover the vibrant and refreshing Strawberry Crunch Salad, a delightful blend of fresh ingredients that captures the essence of spring and summer. This colorful salad features sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese, creating a tantalizing mix of flavors and textures. The crunch from toasted almonds and pistachios adds excitement to each bite, making it not only delicious but visually stunning. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, enjoying a barbecue, or looking for a light dinner option, this salad is sure to impress your guests. Easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces arugula greens
- 8 ounces strawberries (hulled and quartered)
- 1 avocado (chopped)
- 2 ounces crumbled goat cheese
- ⅔ cup sliced almonds
- ⅓ cup chopped roasted salted pistachios
- 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
- Toast the sliced almonds in a nonstick skillet over medium heat with sugar until caramelized (6-8 minutes). Let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine arugula, strawberries, avocado, goat cheese, pistachios, and cooled almonds.
- For the dressing, whisk together champagne vinegar, lemon juice, honey, 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.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
