Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette

Craving a salad that’s both refreshing and satisfying? Look no further! This Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette is a symphony of flavors and textures, perfect for a light lunch, a delightful side dish, or even a sophisticated brunch. Inspired by sunny afternoons and the desire for something truly special, this salad is sure to become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Crunch Salad

This salad isn’t just another bowl of greens. It’s an experience! Here’s why you’ll be obsessed:

• Quick & Easy Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: Sweet strawberries, tangy feta, and a bright champagne vinaigrette create an unforgettable taste.
• Satisfying Crunch: Toasted almonds and crispy chickpeas add a delightful textural contrast.
• Naturally Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats.
• Elegant Presentation: Impress your guests with this visually stunning salad.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite greens or other seasonal fruits.
• Light and Refreshing: The perfect antidote to heavy meals.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.

Ingredients Needed for Strawberry Crunch Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece. Remember to choose the freshest ingredients possible for the best flavor! Toasting the almonds before adding them gives a richer flavor.

For the Salad

• 6 cups (approx. 170g) mixed greens (romaine and arugula): Opt for organic if possible.
• 2 cups (approx. 300g) fresh strawberries, sliced: Choose bright red, fragrant berries.
• 1/2 cup (approx. 115g) crumbled feta cheese: Look for a good quality feta that crumbles easily.
• 1/4 cup (approx. 30g) sliced almonds, toasted: Toasting brings out their nutty flavor!
• 1/4 cup (approx. 40g) crispy chickpeas (canned chickpeas roasted until crisp): A great source of plant-based protein and adds a wonderful crunch.

For the Champagne Vinaigrette

• 1/4 cup (approx. 60ml) champagne vinegar: Adds a delicate tanginess.
• 1/3 cup (approx. 80ml) olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor.
• 1 tablespoon (approx. 20g) honey: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps emulsify the vinaigrette.
• 1 teaspoon (approx. 5g) Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle spice and helps emulsify the vinaigrette.
• 1/4 teaspoon (approx. 1.5g) salt: Balances the flavors.
• 1/8 teaspoon (approx. 0.5g) black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Sweet Savory Strawberry Crunch Salad – For a twist, try adding a touch of balsamic glaze.

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes all the difference! Here’s what you’ll need to assemble this delightful salad:

• Large salad bowl: For tossing all the ingredients together.
• Small mixing bowl: To whisk the vinaigrette.
• Whisk: Essential for emulsifying the vinaigrette.
• Baking sheet: For roasting the chickpeas.
• Skillet: To toast the almonds.

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Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key!

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

This recipe is easily scalable. Double it for a larger gathering or halve it for a personal treat!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Strawberry Crunch Salad

Follow these simple steps to create your own Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette. Each step is designed to be easy to follow, even for beginner cooks.

Prepare the Crispy Chickpeas

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Drain and rinse a can of chickpeas thoroughly. Pat them completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness!
3. Toss the chickpeas with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Ensure they are evenly coated.
4. Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Shake the pan halfway through to ensure even cooking.
6. Let the chickpeas cool completely before adding them to the salad. This will help them retain their crunch.

Toast the Almonds

1. Place the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat.
2. Toast for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant.
3. Remove the almonds from the heat immediately and let them cool completely. This prevents them from burning.

Make the Champagne Vinaigrette

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the champagne vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk vigorously until the vinaigrette is well combined and emulsified. It should have a slightly creamy appearance.

Assemble the Salad

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Just before serving, add the toasted almonds and crispy chickpeas to the salad.
3. Drizzle the champagne vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
4. Serve immediately while the crunch elements remain crisp.

CHECK OUT: Gluten-Free Creamy Italian Pasta Salad – A great alternative if you’re looking for something heartier.

Tips for Success

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Strawberry Crunch Salad is a success every time:

• Don’t Overdress: Add the vinaigrette just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.
• Crispy Chickpeas are Key: Make sure the chickpeas are completely dry before roasting for maximum crunch.
• Toast Almonds Carefully: Watch the almonds closely while toasting, as they can burn quickly.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of the salad.
• Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add a pinch more salt or a drizzle of honey if desired.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to customize this salad to your liking? Here are a few ideas:

• Add Protein: Grilled chicken or baked tofu would be delicious additions.
• Swap the Cheese: Goat cheese or blue cheese would also work well in this salad.
• Try Different Nuts: Pecans or walnuts could be substituted for the almonds.
• Add Other Fruits: Blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries would complement the strawberries nicely.
• Vinaigrette Variation: Substitute maple syrup for honey for a slightly different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Strawberry Crunch Salad

This salad is incredibly versatile! Here are some ideas for serving and pairings:

• Light Lunch: Serve as a satisfying and healthy lunch on its own.
• Side Dish: Pair with grilled fish, chicken, or steak for a complete meal.
• Brunch: Add a touch of elegance to your brunch spread.
• Drinks: Pairs perfectly with sparkling water, iced tea, or lemonade.

Health Benefits of Strawberry Crunch Salad

This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Mixed greens provide essential vitamins and minerals, while almonds contribute healthy fats and vitamin E. Chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber. This salad is a powerhouse of goodness!

Storage & Reheating

To store any leftover salad, keep the vinaigrette separate from the other ingredients. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The crispy chickpeas may lose some of their crunch over time. It’s best to add the vinaigrette just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting. Freezing is not recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make sure my chickpeas are crispy?

Ensure the chickpeas are completely dry before roasting. Pat them dry with paper towels and toss them well with olive oil and salt. Spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet, and shake the pan halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Can I make the vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes, the vinaigrette can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Whisk well before using.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are best, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the salad.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

Goat cheese, blue cheese, or a plant-based feta alternative would all work well in this salad.

How long will the salad last?

The salad is best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The crispy chickpeas may lose some of their crunch over time.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions to the salad.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: Approximately 180
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 4g

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more flavorful and refreshing salads? Check out these other delightful recipes:

• Watermelon Salad with Feta – A light and refreshing summer salad.
• Peach Burrata Salad – The perfect combination of sweet and creamy.
• Chickpea Caprese Salad – A vegetarian twist on a classic Italian salad.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette is a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and crunchy flavors. It’s easy to make, visually stunning, and incredibly satisfying. Whip it up for your next lunch, dinner, or brunch, and get ready to impress! Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking!

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