Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette

Looking for the perfect summer salad that’s both light and satisfying? This Strawberry Crunch Salad is exactly what you need! Peppery arugula topped with juicy strawberries, creamy avocado, tangy goat cheese, and the most amazing candied almonds that add the perfect sweet crunch. My family can take down this entire salad in one sitting – it’s that good!

I first made this salad when I needed something special for a backyard gathering with friends. The combination of fresh strawberries with the crunchy candied nuts was such a hit that it’s now on regular rotation in our house.

Even my kids, Sophia and James, who typically eye salads suspiciously, happily eat this one without complaint. If you’re looking for more refreshing summer recipes, check out my Rainbow Smoothies for another way to enjoy seasonal fruit.

Let me show you how to make this gorgeous, restaurant-worthy salad that takes just minutes to prepare but looks like you spent hours on it!

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Crunch Salad

Fresh and Vibrant: The combination of peppery arugula, sweet strawberries, and creamy avocado creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Customizable: Easily adapt this salad to use whatever berries or greens you have on hand, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Kid-Approved: The candied almonds and sweet strawberries make this salad appealing even to picky eaters my kids actually ask for seconds!

Ingredients for the Perfect Strawberry Crunch Salad

For the Salad Base

• Arugula: This peppery green adds a wonderful bite that perfectly balances the sweet components. The slight spiciness pairs beautifully with strawberries.
• Fresh strawberries: Look for bright red, fragrant berries. I like to quarter them for the perfect bite-sized pieces that distribute throughout the salad.
• Avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats. Choose one that yields slightly to gentle pressure for perfect ripeness.
• Goat cheese: The tangy flavor complements the sweet strawberries beautifully. You can use pre-crumbled for convenience.
• Pistachios: The roasted, salted variety adds another layer of crunch and a savory element.

For the Candied Almonds

• Sliced almonds: These toast quickly and evenly, creating a delicious crunchy element.
• Sugar: Just enough to create a sweet, caramelized coating on the nuts.

For the Champagne Vinaigrette

• Champagne vinegar: Lighter and more delicate than regular vinegar, it won’t overpower the fresh ingredients.
• Lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the honey.
• Honey: Provides natural sweetness and helps emulsify the dressing.
• Dijon mustard: Works as an emulsifier and adds a subtle tang.
• Fresh garlic: Just one clove adds depth without overpowering.
• Olive oil: Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor.

How to Make Your Strawberry Crunch Salad

Step 1: Make the Candied Almonds

1. Place almonds in a dry nonstick skillet over medium heat.
2. Add sugar and cook, stirring constantly for 6-8 minutes, until sugar melts and coats the almonds with a caramel glaze.
3. Quickly transfer to parchment paper to cool (they harden fast!).
4. Once cool, break apart any clumps for even distribution in the salad.

Pro tip: Don’t walk away from the stove during this process! The sugar can go from perfectly caramelized to burnt in seconds.

Step 2: Prepare the Champagne Vinaigrette

1. In a bowl, whisk together champagne vinegar, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. While whisking continuously, slowly stream in the olive oil until the dressing emulsifies and thickens slightly.
3. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Kitchen hack: If you have a small jar with a tight lid, you can add all ingredients and shake vigorously instead of whisking.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, toss arugula with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Add quartered strawberries, chopped avocado, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped pistachios.
3. Scatter the candied almonds throughout the salad.
4. Drizzle with champagne vinaigrette just before serving, tossing gently to coat.

Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Crunch Salad

Make ahead components: You can prepare the candied almonds and vinaigrette up to 3 days ahead. Store the almonds in an airtight container at room temperature and the dressing in the refrigerator.

Serving suggestion: For a beautiful presentation, layer the ingredients instead of tossing them. Start with arugula, then arrange the strawberries, avocado, and cheese on top, finishing with the nuts and dressing.

Don’t dress until ready to eat: To prevent the salad from getting soggy, add the dressing right before serving. This is especially important if you’re taking this to a potluck or picnic.

Delicious Variations for Strawberry Crunch Salad

Add Protein: Turn this salad into a complete meal by adding grilled chicken, salmon, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Berry Swap: Replace strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or a mixed berry blend based on what’s in season.

Cheese Options: Not a fan of goat cheese? Try feta, blue cheese, or even a mild brie instead.

Greens Alternatives: Swap arugula for spinach, mixed greens, or butter lettuce if you prefer something less peppery.

What to Serve with Strawberry Crunch Salad

This versatile salad pairs beautifully with so many main dishes! Here are some of my favorite pairings:

• Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe for a simple weeknight dinner
• Maple Glazed Salmon Recipe for a special occasion
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich for a casual lunch combo

FAQs About Strawberry Crunch Salad

Final Thoughts on This Strawberry Crunch Salad

This Strawberry Crunch Salad has become one of our family favorites for good reason. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory, crunchy and creamy, and it’s always a showstopper when I bring it to gatherings.

The homemade champagne vinaigrette takes it to another level, and those candied almonds? They’re worth making this salad for all on their own!

What I love most about this recipe is how it celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients in a way that’s both simple and special. It’s fancy enough for company but easy enough for a Tuesday night dinner.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does!

If you make this salad, I’d love to hear what you think. Drop a comment below or tag me in your creation on social media. Happy cooking!

Love this recipe? Pin it on Pinterest so you can find it easily next time

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