This Strawberry Crunch Salad is a tasty mix of fresh strawberries, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese, all brought together with a zesty champagne vinaigrette. Perfect for summer!
The crunch from the nuts and the sweetness from the strawberries make it a great side dish or a light lunch. I love serving it with grilled chicken for a fun twist! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Arugula: I love using arugula for its peppery flavor that adds a nice kick. If you can’t find arugula, mixed greens work great too. Spinach or kale are other good options, though they’ll change the flavor a bit.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries bring sweetness! If they’re out of season, consider using other berries like blueberries or raspberries. They’ll give you a different flavor but still keep it fruity.
Avocado: I find avocado adds creaminess that balances the crunch. If you’re allergic to avocados, try diced cucumbers or even apples for a nice change in texture.
Cheese: Goat cheese is my go-to for its tanginess. If you prefer something different, feta works well. You can even use blue cheese for a stronger taste, just be mindful of the bold flavor.
Pistachios: These add a nice crunch! If you can’t find them or prefer not to use nuts, you can substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.
How Do I Make the Perfect Champagne Vinaigrette?
Making a good vinaigrette is all about balancing flavors! The champagne vinegar gives a light, tangy touch that pairs beautifully with the salad. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with the vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey (if using) in a small bowl. Whisk these together until smooth.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking constantly. This helps to emulsify the dressing, making it creamy.
- Don’t forget to taste! Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your liking.
Remember, freshly made vinaigrette tastes best, so making it just before serving is ideal!
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 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (or feta cheese)
- 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
- 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought crunchy granola or toasted nuts (such as almonds)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Champagne Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup champagne vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this salad is about 15 minutes. This includes around 5 minutes for making the vinaigrette and 10 minutes for assembling the salad. It’s a quick and delightful dish to whip up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vinaigrette:
Start by making your champagne vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the champagne vinegar, honey (if you like a touch of sweetness), Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Gradually pour in the olive oil while whisking until everything is well mixed and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, then set it aside.
2. Assemble the Salad:
Grab a large bowl and layer the arugula (or mixed greens) at the bottom. Next, arrange the sliced strawberries, diced avocado, crumbled cheese, and chopped pistachios artfully on top. Group each ingredient together to make it look pretty and inviting!
3. Add Crunch:
Now it’s time to sprinkle on some crunch! Add the crunchy granola or toasted nuts over the top of your beautifully arranged salad. This will give it a great texture and extra flavor.
4. Dress the Salad:
Just before serving, drizzle the champagne vinaigrette over the entire salad. Toss everything gently to combine but be careful not to mess up the lovely arrangement of the ingredients.
5. Serve:
Finally, season with a bit more salt and pepper if you’d like. Now, enjoy your fresh and vibrant Strawberry Crunch Salad! It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish at dinner.
Can I Substitute Different Greens for Arugula?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of arugula, you can use mixed greens, spinach, or kale instead. Just keep in mind that different greens will slightly alter the flavor and texture of the salad, but they will all work well!
How to Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, keep the salad components separate. Place the greens and toppings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply dress the salad fresh to maintain the crunch and flavor.
Can I Use a Different Type of Vinegar for the Vinaigrette?
Yes! If you don’t have champagne vinegar, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar are great alternatives. Just note that these options might result in a slightly different flavor profile, but they’ll still complement the salad beautifully.
Can I Make the Vinaigrette Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can make the champagne vinaigrette in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using, as it may separate over time.
