If you’re craving a salad that feels like summer in every bite, you’re in for a treat. This Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette is bursting with sweet strawberries, crunchy nuts, and tangy-sweet champagne vinaigrette. It hits that perfect balance of refreshing, satisfying, and just a little bit indulgent. Trust me, you’re going to want to make this on repeat all season long. It’s one of those Hearty Salads For Lunch that doubles as a showstopper in any meal.
P.S. If you’re a strawberry lover, don’t miss our Chocolate Dipped Strawberries for Easter—they’re as adorable as they are delicious!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with vibrant, seasonal flavors
- Light, crisp, and refreshing
- Perfect as a side or a main with added protein
- Gorgeous presentation for gatherings
- Easy to make ahead and customize
- Great as one of your go-to Side Salads To Go With Sandwiches
- A delicious option for Clean Eating Summer Dinners
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Lunch |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 5 minutes (optional for nuts) |
| Total Time | 20 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries – juicy, sweet, and the star of the show.
- Mixed greens – baby spinach, arugula, or a spring mix work beautifully.
- Candied pecans or walnuts – for that irresistible crunch.
- Goat cheese or feta – adds creamy, tangy contrast.
- Red onion – thinly sliced for a bite of sharpness.
- Avocado – optional, but adds creamy richness.
- Champagne vinegar – the base for our vinaigrette, light and bubbly.
- Olive oil – for a smooth, velvety dressing.
- Dijon mustard & honey – for a perfect balance of tang and sweetness.
- Salt & pepper – to taste, always.
📌 Scroll down to the recipe card for exact measurements and printable instructions.
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette
Step 1: Toast the Nuts (Optional)
If using raw nuts, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Let cool.
Step 2: Make the Champagne Vinaigrette
In a jar or bowl, whisk together champagne vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk until emulsified.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, layer the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, red onion, and avocado (if using).
Step 4: Add Cheese and Nuts
Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese and candied nuts over the salad. It’s already looking amazing!
Step 5: Drizzle and Toss
Drizzle the champagne vinaigrette over the top and gently toss just before serving.
Pro Tips for Salad Success
- Use cold greens for the crispest texture.
- Slice strawberries just before serving for maximum freshness.
- Want protein? Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Perfect as a Vegetarian Dinner Salad or a Salad Entree Recipe with added protein.
Flavor Variations
- Swap goat cheese for blue cheese or mozzarella pearls.
- Try maple syrup instead of honey in the vinaigrette.
- Add fresh herbs like mint or basil for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette shines as a light lunch or as a gorgeous side with grilled meats. Serve it with crusty bread or a chilled glass of rosé for peak summer vibes. It’s an ideal Dinner With Salad situation or part of your Salads For Two plan.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Prep all components separately and assemble just before serving. The dressing keeps in the fridge for up to a week.
Leftovers
Store leftover salad (undressed) in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing on the side to maintain crunch.
Freezing
This salad isn’t freezer-friendly, but you can freeze the vinaigrette in an ice cube tray for future use!
Reheating
No reheating needed—just chill and serve fresh!
FAQ
Can I use a different vinegar?
Yes! White wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar works too, but champagne vinegar adds a delicate sparkle.
What’s the best nut to use?
Candied pecans are divine, but almonds or sunflower seeds are great crunchy swaps.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, just double-check any store-bought ingredients like candied nuts. Great for Summer Recipes Gluten Free lists!
Can I make it vegan?
Totally! Skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative, and use maple syrup instead of honey.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about sweet strawberries, creamy cheese, and crunchy nuts tossed in a zippy champagne vinaigrette. This Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette is sunshine in a bowl—easy, breezy, and so worth making. Whether you’re whipping it up for a picnic, a dinner party, or just because it’s Tuesday, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles. For anyone looking for Clean Eating Summer Dinners or planning a Dinner With Salad, this one’s a keeper.
Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Toast the nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant, if using raw. Let cool.
- In a jar or bowl, whisk together champagne vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- In a large bowl, layer the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, red onion, and avocado if using.
- Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese and candied nuts over the salad.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss just before serving.