Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette
This Strawberry Crunch Salad is a delightful mix of fresh, vibrant ingredients that offer the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and crunchy flavors. Juicy strawberries, crunchy candied pecans, creamy feta cheese, and crisp mixed greens come together with a light and refreshing Champagne Vinaigrette. This salad is great as a side dish or can be turned into a full meal by adding grilled chicken or shrimp.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
6 cups mixed greens (baby spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled (or goat cheese for a creamier option)
½ cup candied pecans (or toasted walnuts/almonds)
½ cup thinly sliced red onions
½ cup cucumber, thinly sliced
¼ cup dried cranberries (optional)
For the Champagne Vinaigrette:
¼ cup Champagne vinegar
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
Instruction:
Make the Champagne Vinaigrette:
1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the Champagne vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, pepper, and minced garlic (if using).
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until emulsified. Set aside.
Assemble the Salad:
3. In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens.
4. Top with sliced strawberries, red onions, cucumber, candied pecans, and dried cranberries.
5. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top.
6. Drizzle the Champagne Vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutritional Information:
Calories: ~250 kcal
Protein: ~5g
Fat: ~18g
Carbohydrates: ~19g
Fiber: ~3g
Sugars: ~10g
(Nutritional values will vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)
Notes & Tips:
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for a hearty meal.
Nut-Free Option: Substitute nuts with pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
Dressing Storage: The vinaigrette can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Shake before using.
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble dry ingredients in advance but add dressing and nuts right before serving for the best texture.
Vegan Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey and swap feta for a plant-based cheese.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
This Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette is light, refreshing, and perfect for spring and summer meals. Enjoy!