This Strawberry Crunch Salad is a bright and tasty dish! It combines fresh strawberries, crunchy nuts, and a zesty champagne vinaigrette that brings everything to life.
Who knew salad could taste so fun? I love adding some extra nuts for crunch—it makes each bite exciting. Perfect for a picnic or a quick side at dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Arugula: I love using arugula for its peppery kick. You can also use mixed greens or spinach if you prefer a milder flavor or if arugula isn’t available.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are essential for sweetness. If you’re out of strawberries, feel free to substitute with ripe peaches or even blueberries for a different twist.
Avocado: A ripe avocado gives creaminess to the salad. If you’re avoiding avocados, consider substituting with diced cucumbers or a handful of chopped walnuts for crunch.
Cheese: Feta adds a salty flavor, but if you want to make it vegan, skip the cheese or use a plant-based version. Goat cheese is another delicious alternative if you like tanginess.
Pistachios and Almonds: These nuts add great texture. If you’re nut-free, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work well for crunch without the allergens!
How Do You Make a Creamy Champagne Vinaigrette?
A quality vinaigrette can elevate your salad tremendously. For this champagne vinaigrette, start by whisking the vinegar and Dijon mustard. The mustard helps to emulsify the dressing, giving it a silky finish.
- Combine 1/4 cup champagne vinegar with 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
- Whisk in 1/2 cup of olive oil slowly—you want to incorporate it gradually for a creamy texture.
- Add 1 tablespoon of honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option), and season with salt and pepper.
- Taste your dressing; adjust sweetness and seasoning if needed for your liking.
This dressing can also be made ahead of time—just give it a good shake before using!
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Salad With Champagne Vinaigrette
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups arugula (or mixed greens)
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese)
- ¼ cup pistachios, chopped
- ¼ cup toasted almonds, chopped
- ¼ cup crispy fried onions or crunchy salad toppings
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Champagne Vinaigrette:
- ¼ cup champagne vinegar
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a fresh lunch or a side dish for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Base:
Start by adding the arugula (or your choice of mixed greens) into a large salad bowl. This will be the hearty base for your colorful salad.
2. Arrange the Toppings:
Next, place the sliced strawberries, diced avocado, crumbled feta (or goat cheese), chopped pistachios, toasted almonds, and crispy fried onions on top of the arugula. Arrange them in separate sections to create a beautiful, vibrant presentation.
3. Make the Champagne Vinaigrette:
In a small bowl, whisk together the champagne vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and honey until everything is well blended. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste!
4. Combine and Serve:
Just before serving, drizzle the homemade vinaigrette over the salad. Toss everything gently to mix the ingredients together without squishing your beautiful toppings. Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Strawberry Crunch Salad! It’s a perfect dish to impress your family or friends at any meal.
Can I Substitute Other Greens for Arugula?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of arugula, you can use mixed greens, spinach, or even kale. Just keep in mind that if you use kale, it’s best to massage it a bit with olive oil to soften the leaves before adding your toppings.
How to Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, keep the salad and vinaigrette separate. Place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. The vinaigrette can also be stored in a sealed container for up to a week. When ready to eat, drizzle on the vinaigrette just before enjoying!
Can I Make the Vinaigrette Ahead of Time?
Yes! The champagne vinaigrette can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just whisk it again before using, as the ingredients may separate over time. For a deeper flavor, let it sit for a few hours or overnight.
What Can I Use Instead of Feta Cheese?
If feta isn’t your thing, goat cheese, blue cheese, or even a dairy-free cheese are excellent alternatives. Each option brings a unique flavor, so choose based on your preference or dietary needs!
