Strawberry Crunch Salad

Looking for a refreshing and flavorful salad to brighten up your meal? Look no further than this Strawberry Crunch Salad! Packed with juicy strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy almonds, this salad is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, a potluck, or just looking for a healthy lunch option, this salad is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. Great flavors: The combination of fresh strawberries, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese creates a delicious flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
2. Quick prep time: This salad comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
3. Perfect for meal prep: You can easily make a batch of this salad ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s a great option for meal prepping lunches or light dinners.

Ingredient Notes:

• Almonds: Sliced or slivered almonds add a nice crunch to the salad. You can also use walnuts or pecans as a substitute.
• Arugula greens: Peppery arugula adds a bold flavor to the salad. Spinach or mixed greens can be used instead.
• Goat cheese: Creamy and tangy goat cheese pairs perfectly with the strawberries. Feta cheese is a good alternative.
• Champagne vinaigrette: A light and tangy dressing made with champagne vinegar, lemon juice, honey, mustard, and olive oil ties the salad together.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a small pan, toast the almonds with sugar until golden brown. Let them cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine arugula, strawberries, avocado, goat cheese, and pistachios.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together champagne vinegar, lemon juice, honey, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in olive oil.
4. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Top the salad with the toasted almonds and serve.

Helpful Tips:

• Toast the almonds just before serving to maintain their crunchiness.
• Make extra dressing and store it in the fridge for future salads.
• Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Use ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor.
2. Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less honey to suit your taste.
3. Let the salad sit for a few minutes after tossing to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions:

This Strawberry Crunch Salad pairs well with grilled chicken, salmon, or a light pasta dish. Serve it alongside a glass of chilled white wine or a fruity iced tea for a refreshing meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate and toss before serving to maintain the salad’s freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use a different type of nut in this salad?
   Yes, you can use walnuts, pecans, or pine nuts instead of almonds.
2. How can I make this salad vegan?
   Simply omit the goat cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
3. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
   Yes, the dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.
4. What other fruits can I add to this salad?
   Try adding blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches for a variation.

Conclusion:

With its vibrant colors and delicious flavors, this Strawberry Crunch Salad is a must-try recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing meal or a show-stopping side dish, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try and let us know how you enjoyed it!

Print