This Strawberry Crunch Salad is a refreshing mix of fresh strawberries, creamy cheese, and a delightful crunch from buttery granola. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal!
Honestly, how can you resist those sweet strawberries paired with a bit of crunch? I love bringing this to picnics; it always gets smiles and empty bowls! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach or Mixed Greens: Baby spinach is mild and tender, perfect for this salad. You can swap it for kale or arugula if you like a stronger flavor or prefer a heartier texture.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries bring sweetness. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen strawberries work too, just thaw and drain them first. You could also try blueberries or raspberries for a different taste.
Feta or Goat Cheese: Feta adds a salty creaminess. Goat cheese is a softer alternative that’s equally delightful. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a vegan cheese or omit it altogether.
Granola: Crunchy granola adds texture. If you’re gluten-free, look for a gluten-free granola. You can also substitute with crushed nuts or seeds for similar crunch without the sweetness.
Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic adds tanginess to the dressing. Feel free to use apple cider vinegar for a different flavor or lemon juice for a brighter acidity.
How Can I Make the Perfect Dressing?
The dressing is key to elevating the salad. Mixing it well is crucial. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Start by measuring balsamic vinegar and olive oil into a small bowl or jar.
- Add honey or maple syrup for sweetness. Adjust according to your taste—more for sweetness, less for a tangier kick.
- Sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Taste as you go!
- Whisk or shake until all ingredients are combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Drizzle over your salad just before serving to keep the granola crunchy.
Enjoy creating this delightful Strawberry Crunch Salad! It’s not only visually appealing but balanced in flavors and textures too.
Strawberry Crunch Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach or mixed salad greens
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- 1 cup granola (preferably a crunchy, lightly sweetened variety)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Strawberry Crunch Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You can whip it up quickly, making it perfect for a last-minute side dish or a refreshing addition to your meal. No long cooking times here—just fresh, healthy ingredients!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Base:
Begin by placing your fresh baby spinach or mixed salad greens into a large salad bowl. Make sure the greens are clean and dry; this will help your dressing stick better.
2. Add the Strawberries:
Next, take your hulled and halved strawberries and evenly distribute them over the greens. The bright color of the strawberries will make your salad visually appealing and add a sweet flavor.
3. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle your crumbled feta or goat cheese on top of the strawberries. This creamy cheese will complement the sweetness of the berries beautifully!
4. Add the Crunch Factor:
Grab your granola and sprinkle it over the salad for a delightful crunch. This adds texture and a bit of sweetness to balance the tangy cheese.
5. Optional Additions:
If you’d like to mix it up even more, you can add sliced almonds and thinly sliced red onions for extra layers of flavor and texture.
6. Whisk Together the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
7. Dress the Salad:
Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the entire salad. This ensures that the greens remain crisp and the exposure to dressing is fresh and vibrant.
8. Toss and Serve:
Now, it’s time to toss everything together gently. Make sure all ingredients are combined well but be careful not to break the strawberries or the granola. Enjoy your fresh Strawberry Crunch Salad immediately for the best crunch and flavor!
With a balance of sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy elements, this Strawberry Crunch Salad is sure to impress everyone at the table!
Can I Use Different Greens for This Salad?
Absolutely! While baby spinach is recommended for its mild flavor and tenderness, you can use other greens like arugula or mixed salad greens. Just keep in mind that some greens may have a stronger flavor that could change the overall taste of the salad.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. However, it’s best to keep the granola separate until just before serving to maintain its crunchiness!
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar work well too! Just remember that each will impart a slightly different flavor, so adjust the amount of honey as needed to balance the acidity.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
While the salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and keep them separate. Assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving to ensure everything stays crisp and fresh!
