This Strawberry Crunch Salad is a fruity delight! Filled with fresh strawberries, crunchy nuts, and a creamy dressing, it’s perfect for a sunny day or a fun picnic.
Honestly, I can’t resist the sweet and crunchy combo. It’s like a party in a bowl! I love serving it chilled—it makes it extra refreshing on warm days. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Salad Greens: Romaine and red leaf offer a nice mix of crunch and softness. You can swap these for spinach or arugula if you want a peppery kick or to keep it light.
Fresh Strawberries: Always go for ripe strawberries as they are sweeter! If you can’t find fresh ones, you can use frozen strawberries, just thaw and pat them dry before adding.
Granola or Crunchy Oat Clusters: This adds a wonderful crunch. If you’re aiming for a gluten-free option, choose gluten-free granola or use crushed nuts instead.
Cheese: Goat cheese gives a creamy texture. If you’re not a fan, feta is a great substitute. For a dairy-free version, try crumbled tofu or nutritional yeast.
Nuts: Almonds or pecans are optional but add great flavor. You can use walnuts, pumpkin seeds, or even skip them if you have nut allergies.
How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing for This Salad?
The dressing is vital for bringing all flavors together. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Start by whisking your olive oil and vinegar together in a bowl. A jar works well too—just shake it!
- Add honey for sweetness and Dijon mustard for a bit of tang. Taste as you go. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a little more honey.
- Finish with salt and pepper to taste. This brings out all the other flavors in your salad!
Mix the dressing well before drizzling it over your salad for the best flavor distribution. Toss gently so you don’t crush the strawberries or granola!
Strawberry Crunch Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (like romaine and red leaf lettuce)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup granola or crunchy oat clusters
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped pecans (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time Needed:
This refreshing salad takes only about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy dish that can be served right away, making it perfect for a busy day or a last-minute gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Greens:
Start by washing and thoroughly drying the salad greens. You want them nice and crisp! Once dried, place them into a large salad bowl. This is the base of our delicious salad.
2. Add the Strawberries:
Next, gently fold in the fresh strawberry halves. They’ll add a beautiful color and sweetness to your salad. Be careful not to mash them as you mix!
3. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or apple cider vinegar), honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until everything is well mixed and smooth. This dressing is what ties all the flavors together!
4. Toss the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the greens and strawberries in the bowl. Toss gently to coat the salad evenly. You want every bite to be full of flavor without bruising the strawberries.
5. Add the Crunch:
Now, sprinkle the granola or crunchy oat clusters over the top for that delightful crunch factor. It adds a wonderful texture that balances nicely with the soft strawberries.
6. Finish with Cheese and Nuts:
If you’re using cheese, add the crumbled goat or feta cheese on top. Also, sprinkle the optional sliced almonds or chopped pecans if desired. These ingredients add richness and more crunch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Strawberry Crunch Salad immediately for the best freshness and crunchiness. This vibrant salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also for your taste buds. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Greens?
Absolutely! While romaine and red leaf lettuce are delicious, you can use any salad greens you prefer, like spinach or mixed baby greens to customize the salad to your tastes.
How Do I Keep the Granola Crunchy?
To keep the granola crispy, add it right before serving. If you dress the salad ahead of time, the granola may become soggy.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, but it’s best to prepare the salad without the dressing, granola, and cheese. Store the salad components separately in the fridge and combine them just before serving for maximum freshness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the granola separate to maintain its crunch, and enjoy the salad cold!