Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, this Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette is a light yet satisfying dish perfect for spring and summer. Juicy strawberries, crisp greens, toasted nuts, creamy cheese, and a sweet, tangy vinaigrette come together in a refreshing medley of textures and tastes. Whether you’re serving it as a side, lunch, or elegant appetizer, this salad is always a showstopper.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
🍓 Sweet and savory harmony – The juicy strawberries pair beautifully with crunchy toppings and savory cheese.
✨ Light and refreshing – A perfect warm-weather salad or fancy brunch dish.
🥗 Crunch in every bite – Thanks to toasted nuts, seeds, and crispy salad greens.
🍾 Champagne vinaigrette – Light, elegant, and slightly sweet, it elevates the entire dish.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 5 oz mixed greens (arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix)
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ½ cup candied pecans or walnuts (or plain toasted nuts)
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- Optional: sunflower seeds or sliced almonds for extra crunch
For the Champagne Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup champagne vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Champagne Vinaigrette
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together champagne vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking until the dressing is emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl or serving platter, layer the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, red onion, and crumbled cheese. Sprinkle with toasted nuts and seeds for added crunch.
Step 3: Dress and Toss
Drizzle the salad with the vinaigrette just before serving and gently toss to combine, or serve the dressing on the side for guests to add to taste.
Optional Add-Ins
- Avocado for creaminess
- Grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier version
- Quinoa or farro for added texture and protein
- Fresh mint or basil for extra freshness
Tips for Best Results
- Use ripe, sweet strawberries for maximum flavor.
- Chill your vinaigrette before serving for a crisp, refreshing finish.
- Toss just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
- Make it vegan by using a plant-based cheese or omitting cheese altogether.
Perfect For:
- Spring and summer picnics
- Elegant brunches or bridal showers
- Light weekday lunches
- Side salad for grilled meats or seafood
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette is the perfect combination of elegance and ease. It’s colorful, flavorful, and full of texture, making it a favorite for entertaining or elevating your everyday meals. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s a standout among seasonal salads.