Strawberry Crunch Salad Recipe

If you’re ready to embrace the flavors of spring and summer, this Strawberry Crunch Salad is an absolute must-try. Bursting with juicy strawberries, creamy avocado, tangy goat cheese, and crunchy sugared almonds and pistachios, every bite offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Tossed in a bright champagne vinaigrette, it’s as beautiful to serve as it is addictive to eat. Whether you’re hosting brunch, picnicking outside, or craving a light, unforgettable lunch, Strawberry Crunch Salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the impressive flavor fool you—this recipe comes together with fresh, simple ingredients that shine on their own. Each component adds something special, from the pop of the berries to the buttery crunch of nuts and that irresistible creamy cheese. Here’s what you’ll need for a perfect Strawberry Crunch Salad:

• Almonds (⅔ cup, sliced or slivered): These form the crunchy, sweet base—once caramelized, they’re totally addictive!
• Sugar (3 tablespoons): Used to candy the almonds, bringing a toasty sweetness and gorgeous crunch.
• Arugula Greens (10 ounces): Peppery, vibrant greens provide a sturdy, flavorful salad bed.
• Strawberries (8 ounces, hulled and quartered): Juicy, sweet, and bursting with color—make sure they’re ripe!
• Avocado (1, chopped): Creamy slices add richness and a luscious bite throughout the salad.
• Goat Cheese (2 ounces, crumbled): Offers tang and smoothness—its flavor balances the sweetness of the berries and nuts perfectly.
• Roasted Salted Pistachios (⅓ cup, chopped): Extra crunch and a lovely, earthy depth—plus a pop of bright green!
• Champagne Vinegar (3 tablespoons): For the vinaigrette—a gentle, slightly floral acid that elevates the dressing.
• Lemon (½, juiced): Adds a sunny freshness and balances the honey in the vinaigrette.
• Honey (2 tablespoons): Natural sweetness helps round out the tang in the dressing.
• Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon): For a gentle heat and lots of flavor complexity.
• Garlic (1 clove, freshly grated): Fresh, pungent, and aromatic—just enough to give depth.
• Kosher Salt and Pepper (pinch): Essential for seasoning the greens and dressing just right.
• Olive Oil (½ cup): Brings the vinaigrette together and gives it a beautiful, silky texture.

How to Make Strawberry Crunch Salad

Step 1: Candy the Almonds

Set a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add your sliced or slivered almonds. Sprinkle the sugar over them and stir continually—don’t step away! Watch closely as the sugar melts and turns golden, evenly coating every almond in sweet, glossy caramel. After 6 to 8 minutes, once everything is fragrant and delicious, quickly transfer the nuts to a sheet of parchment paper to cool. They’ll harden into irresistible, crunchy clusters.

Step 2: Prep the Salad Base

Grab a large bowl and tumble in your peppery, fresh arugula. Add a small pinch of salt and pepper, gently tossing the leaves to season them evenly—this tiny step helps every bite pop with flavor.

Step 3: Add the Color and Texture

Now comes the fun part! Top the greens with ripe strawberries (either quartered or chopped), creamy chunks of avocado, crumbled goat cheese, and your chopped roasted pistachios. When your candied almonds are cool, break them into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle them across for that signature crunch.

Step 4: Whisk the Champagne Vinaigrette

In a medium bowl, whisk together champagne vinegar, honey, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dijon mustard, grated garlic, a generous pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Once combined, slowly pour in the olive oil, whisking vigorously until the dressing is creamy and emulsified. The flavors should be bright, a little sweet, and perfectly balanced.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Drizzle about half the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently, making sure the strawberries, nuts, and cheese are evenly distributed. Taste and add a bit more dressing if needed. Serve your Strawberry Crunch Salad immediately for maximum crunch and freshness, and watch it disappear!

How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Salad

Garnishes

Finish your Strawberry Crunch Salad with a flurry of fresh herbs—think torn basil, mint, or even chives for a burst of color and flavor. Try a final crack of black pepper or an extra sprinkle of goat cheese for extra richness. The candied almonds themselves make a perfect topping, adding that gorgeous, light-catching shine on top!

Side Dishes

This salad is right at home next to nearly any main. Pair it with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp if you want protein, or offer it as a standout side at a picnic. Crusty sourdough, focaccia, or a savory tart also make fabulous companions for a fresh, casual meal.

Creative Ways to Present

You can get playful by plating individual servings on small plates for an elegant starter, or assemble the Strawberry Crunch Salad in a large, clear serving bowl to showcase its vibrant layers. For a picnic or lunchbox, keep the candied almonds and vinaigrette separate until you’re ready to eat for ultimate crunch. Mini mason jars or bento boxes also make it a grab-and-go sensation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Strawberry Crunch Salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best texture, keep the candied almonds and dressing on the side until serving—this keeps the nuts crisp and the greens vibrant rather than soggy. Enjoy within 1-2 days for best results.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, and freezing is not recommended. The strawberries and avocado lose their lovely texture, and greens become limp once thawed. However, you can candy the almonds ahead and freeze them on their own for up to a month—simply let them return to room temp before adding to the salad.

Reheating

No reheating required—Strawberry Crunch Salad is meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you’re making it ahead, let the salad sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes so the flavors can balance before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Crumbled feta, blue cheese, or even shavings of parmesan all work beautifully. Goat cheese provides a creamy tang, but the salad is flexible with cheese swaps depending on your preference.

Is there a substitute for arugula if I want a milder green?

Yes, you can use baby spinach, mixed spring greens, or even butter lettuce for a softer, slightly sweeter base. The arugula gives a peppery kick, but Strawberry Crunch Salad still shines with other greens.

How can I make this nut-free?

Try swapping the nuts for toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds to retain the crunch! You can also use crispy chickpeas or omit toppings for allergies—just make sure your salad still gets that signature crunch.

Can I prep any components in advance?

Definitely—candy the almonds and make the vinaigrette up to a week ahead. Store both in airtight containers. Wait to cut the strawberries and avocado until just before serving to keep them fresh.

How long does the champagne vinaigrette last?

Your homemade vinaigrette will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about a week. Give it a good shake or whisk before pouring over your Strawberry Crunch Salad to re-emulsify if it separates.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a little color, crunch, and flavor magic to your table, you have to give Strawberry Crunch Salad a try. There’s just something about the way sweet berries, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese come together that makes every bite a delight. I can’t wait for you to experience this vibrant salad—it’s bright, fresh, and bound to become a requested favorite all season long!

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