Strawberry Crunch Avocado Salad

This strawberry crunch salad bursts with vibrant color and texture the moment it lands on your table It is loaded with juicy strawberries creamy avocado and tangy goat cheese balanced against ultra crisp greens and the irresistible snap of candied almonds and pistachios This has been my go to when spring produce is booming and I want something bright and satisfying for lunch or a crowd pleasing side

The first time I shared this with friends it was gone within minutes Everyone loved the mix of creamy tangy salty and sweet I have made it for my parents and they still ask for the recipe every year

Ingredients

• Sliced or slivered almonds: Essential for the crunchy sweet bite Look for almonds that smell fresh and crisp without any bitterness
• Sugar: Necessary to candy the almonds and add a touch of sweetness to the salad White granulated works best
• Arugula greens: Peppery and bold great for contrast Choose bunches with firm leaves and no yellowing
• Strawberries: Ripe and sweet for peak flavor Look for berries that are deep red and glossy
• Avocado: Adds creamy richness and healthy fats Pick one that is barely soft to the touch but not mushy
• Goat cheese: Soft tangy and salty It melts ever so slightly into the greens Use a log of plain chevre or a mild herbed version
• Roasted salted pistachios: Crunchy and slightly briny Choose ones that are freshly roasted and bright green inside

For the champagne vinaigrette

• Champagne vinegar: Bright crisp acidity for the dressing Opt for a bottle with a delicate flavor nothing too harsh
• Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed adds a fresh punch
• Honey: Balances the acid and brings subtle sweetness Local honey has the best taste
• Dijon mustard: Rounds out the dressing with a spicy tang Choose a creamy dijon for smooth blending
• Garlic: Brings depth and zing Go for a fresh clove never pre chopped
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings for balancing flavors
• Olive oil: Use extra virgin for best texture and fruitiest taste Pick a new harvest bottle for rich flavor

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Candied Almonds:

Cook sliced almonds and sugar in a nonstick skillet over medium heat Stir constantly until the sugar has fully melted and is golden wrapping each almond about six to eight minutes Keep watch as the nuts can burn in no time Transfer immediately to parchment and let cool then break apart

Toss the Salad Base:

In a big salad bowl season arugula with a gentle sprinkle of salt and pepper to jump start its flavor Then tumble in the strawberries avocado crumbled goat cheese pistachios and cooled candied almonds

Make the Champagne Vinaigrette:

In another large bowl whisk together champagne vinegar honey lemon juice dijon mustard garlic salt and pepper Stream in the olive oil slowly as you keep whisking until the dressing looks creamy and glossy

Dress and Serve:

Just before serving drizzle the vinaigrette evenly over the salad Gently toss so everything is lightly coated Serve right away for maximum crunch and freshness

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My personal favorite ingredient is always the goat cheese Its creamy tang brings everything together and when I was little my mother would sneak extra on top just for me There is always a story to tell when someone finally tastes those sweet almonds for the first time

Storage Tips

This salad is best eaten fresh while the greens and nuts are crisp If you have leftovers store the salad base in an airtight container separate from the vinaigrette and nuts for up to two days Keep vinaigrette in a jar in the fridge for up to one week Candied almonds can be stored in a jar at room temperature for three to four days

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find arugula try baby spinach or mixed spring greens Feta cheese can be swapped for goat cheese for a slightly firmer texture Almonds are classic but pecans or walnuts also work beautifully In place of champagne vinegar white wine vinegar gives similar tang

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad as a standout brunch side or top with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier main course It is also perfect for picnics BBQs and potlucks Add a loaf of crusty bread and chilled white wine for a complete meal

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The Story Behind This Salad

Strawberry crunch salad blends the best of spring and summer produce in true American tradition While its flavors are modern the combination of fruit nuts cheese and greens draws inspiration from classic French and California cuisine I first tried a version at a roadside farm stand and have been riffing on it ever since

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes the salad extra crunchy?

The combination of caramelized almonds and chopped roasted pistachios gives the salad its distinctive crunch.

→ Can I substitute the goat cheese?

Yes, feta or blue cheese offer different flavor profiles and creamy textures for variety in the salad.

→ Is there a recommended way to cook the sugared almonds?

Gently heat almonds with sugar in a nonstick skillet, stirring until the sugar melts and the almonds are coated and golden.

→ How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Toss avocado pieces in lemon juice or add just before serving to maintain their fresh appearance and texture.

→ How long does the champagne vinaigrette last?

The vinaigrette can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week in a sealed container.