There’s something blissful about the first bite of a fresh, vibrant salad on a warm summer day. Enter the Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad—a perfect symphony of sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese, enhanced by the delightful crunch of sugared almonds. I stumbled upon this recipe during a sunny afternoon while searching for a dish that could bring a burst of flavor without the fuss of cooking.
This no-cook wonder is not only easy to whip up but also versatile enough to shine at any gathering, from casual lunches to celebratory picnics. Plus, with a vegan option available, it caters to various dietary preferences without sacrificing taste. Imagine the satisfaction of enjoying a salad that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is nourishing for the body. Join me on this culinary adventure and discover how a few simple, fresh ingredients can transform your meal into a refreshing delight!
Why is Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad so appealing?
Vibrant and colorful, this salad draws you in with its fresh ingredients. Quick and Easy to prepare, it’s a no-cook recipe that saves time and effort. Nutrient-Packed, filled with vitamins from the fruits and greens, it’s both healthy and satisfying. Versatile enough to serve at any occasion, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or stands alone as a light meal. Plus, for those looking to keep it plant-based, there’s a delicious vegan option to ensure everyone can enjoy this refreshing dish!
Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
- Arugula – A peppery base green that adds freshness and crunch.
- Strawberries – The star of the dish, providing juicy sweetness; opt for fresh whenever possible.
- Avocado – Adds creaminess to the salad; choose a ripe avocado for the best flavor and texture.
- Goat Cheese – Offers tanginess and creaminess; feta can serve as a tasty substitute if desired.
- Sugared Almonds – Homemade sweetness and crunch elevate the dish; you can replace them with walnuts or pecans.
- Pistachios – An optional addition that enhances the crunch and brings a pop of color.
For the Champagne Vinaigrette
- Champagne Vinegar – Brightens the salad with its tangy flavor; white wine or apple cider vinegar are good substitutes.
- Olive Oil – Creates a rich dressing; use extra virgin for a robust flavor.
- Honey – Adds sweetness; maple syrup can substitute for a vegan-friendly version.
- Dijon Mustard – Introduces a subtle zing; a delicious complement to the vinaigrette.
- Lemon Juice – Fresh citrus enhances all flavors; adjust to taste for tartness.
- Garlic – Provides depth and a slight kick; use fresh minced for the best aroma.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning the vinaigrette; adjust according to your preference.
This Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad brings a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds while keeping your meal light and nourishing!
How to Make Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad
Prepare Sugared Almonds: In a nonstick skillet over medium heat, combine 1 cup of sliced almonds and ½ cup of sugar. Cook, stirring constantly for about 6-8 minutes until the sugar melts and turns golden. Transfer the mixture onto parchment paper to cool completely.
Assemble Salad: In a large mixing bowl, lightly toss 4 cups of arugula with a pinch of salt and pepper. Gently add 2 cups of sliced strawberries, 1 diced avocado, ½ cup of crumbled goat cheese, ½ cup of shelled pistachios, and the cooled sugared almonds.
Dress the Salad: Whisk together your champagne vinaigrette ingredients (¼ cup champagne vinegar, ½ cup olive oil, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, juice of 1 lemon, 1 clove minced garlic, salt, and pepper) in a separate bowl. Drizzle over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately for maximum freshness.
Optional: Garnish with extra pistachios or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sugared almonds and champagne vinaigrette up to 3 days in advance; simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their crunch and flavor. The salad components, such as arugula, strawberries, and avocado, should be prepped up to 24 hours before serving—slice the strawberries but keep the avocado whole until you’re ready to toss it in (to prevent browning). When it’s time to serve, just mix everything together and drizzle your freshly made vinaigrette over the top for just as delicious results with minimal effort.
How to Store and Freeze Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad
- Fridge: Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
- Sugared Almonds: These can be stored in a cool, dry place in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, maintaining their crunchiness.
- Vinaigrette: Keep the champagne vinaigrette in the fridge for up to 1 week in a sealed jar; shake well before using.
- Reheating: This salad is best served cold; avoid reheating to preserve the fresh ingredients of your Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad.
What to Serve with Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad?
A perfect salad deserves equally delightful companions to create a memorable meal experience.
Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken provides a satisfying protein kick, perfectly complementing the salad’s flavors. It adds heartiness, making the salad an excellent full meal.
Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa infused with fresh herbs complements the salad’s vibrant textures without overpowering it. The neutral base pairs beautifully with the sweetness of strawberries.
Fresh Corn on the Cob: Sweet, grilled corn brings a summery touch that enhances both the sweetness and the crunch factor in the salad. A perfect addition for outdoor barbecues!
Watermelon Feta Salad: This refreshing combo of juicy watermelon and salty feta echoes the sweet-savory theme of the Strawberry Crunch Salad. It’s a delightful contrast that brightens up any table.
Sparkling Lemonade: The effervescence of sparkling lemonade elevates the meal with its refreshing bubbles and zesty citrus, creating a delightful palate cleanser.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: For a touch of indulgence, serve chocolate-dipped strawberries as a dessert. This sweet treat will be a hit and concludes the meal on a flavorful note.
Expert Tips for Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad
Perfect Almonds: Monitor the sugared almonds closely while cooking to prevent burning; this will ensure a beautiful crunch in your salad.
Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh strawberries and ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture in your Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad.
Dress Before Serving: To keep the arugula crisp, dress the salad right before serving; this avoids sogginess and preserves the salad’s bright colors.
Customize Dressings: Feel free to adjust the champagne vinaigrette ingredients to suit your taste; adding extra lemon juice can enhance the overall brightness.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the sugared almonds and vinaigrette ahead of time. Just store them in airtight containers until you’re ready to assemble the salad.
Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad Variations
Explore exciting twists to enhance your culinary experience with this delightful salad.
Vegan Option: Omit goat cheese or substitute with a creamy plant-based alternative; use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier salad that transforms it into a satisfying main dish.
Berry Medley: Replace strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a unique flavor profile that changes with the seasons.
Nut Choices: Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or pecans for varied flavor and crunch; toasted nuts bring out the best flavors.
Spice It Up: Toss in some sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like mint or basil for an aromatic twist that brightens the entire salad’s flavor.
Grains Addition: Mix in cooked quinoa or farro for a nourishing boost and texture contrast; these grains make the salad more filling.
Bold Dressing Swap: Try a balsamic vinaigrette for a richer flavor instead of champagne vinaigrette—perfect for those who enjoy a deeper taste.
Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting strawberries?
Absolutely! Look for bright red strawberries that have a pleasant aroma. Avoid those with dark spots or bruising, which are signs of overripeness. Fresh strawberries will be firm and plump; if using frozen, ensure they’re thoroughly thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
How should I store leftover Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad?
You can store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, to maintain the freshness of the greens, keep the dressing separate and only add it right before serving to avoid sogginess.
Can I freeze the Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad?
I don’t recommend freezing this salad as the fresh ingredients will lose their texture upon thawing. However, you can freeze the sugared almonds for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container once they’ve cooled completely.
What if I can’t find champagne vinegar?
No worries! You can easily substitute champagne vinegar with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Both alternatives retain that tangy essence that complements the Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad beautifully.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any store-bought ingredients like the Dijon mustard are labeled gluten-free. You can enjoy this vibrant dish without worry if you’re following a gluten-free lifestyle.
Can I make this salad vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! To make your Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad vegan, simply omit the goat cheese or swap it for a plant-based alternative, and replace honey in the dressing with maple syrup. This way, everyone can enjoy this refreshing delight!
Sweet & Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a nonstick skillet over medium heat, combine the sliced almonds and sugar. Cook, stirring constantly for about 6-8 minutes until the sugar melts and turns golden. Transfer the mixture onto parchment paper to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, lightly toss the arugula with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the sliced strawberries, diced avocado, crumbled goat cheese, shelled pistachios, and cooled sugared almonds.
- Whisk together the champagne vinaigrette ingredients in a separate bowl. Drizzle over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately for maximum freshness.
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