Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette

When I’m in the mood for something bright, fresh, and full of texture, I reach for this Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette. It’s a colorful mix of sweet strawberries, crisp greens, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese, all brought together with a delicate vinaigrette that adds just the right amount of tang. It’s perfect for spring and summer, but honestly, I make it all year round when I want something that feels fresh and elegant.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love the balance in this salad—the sweetness of the strawberries, the crunch from the nuts, and the creaminess of the cheese make every bite interesting. The champagne vinaigrette gives it a light, refined finish that elevates the whole dish. It’s quick to throw together, and it looks beautiful on the table. Whether I’m serving it with grilled chicken or enjoying it on its own, it always feels like a treat.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh strawberries (sliced)

• Mixed greens or baby spinach

• Candied pecans or sliced almonds (toasted for crunch)

• Goat cheese or feta (crumbled)

• Red onion (thinly sliced)

• Avocado (optional, diced for extra creaminess)

For the Champagne Vinaigrette:

• Champagne vinegar

• Olive oil

• Honey or maple syrup

• Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. I start by making the vinaigrette—whisking together champagne vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.

2. In a large salad bowl, I toss together the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, red onion, and candied pecans.

3. I gently mix in the crumbled goat cheese and avocado if I’m using it.

4. I drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.

5. If I want to be extra fancy, I garnish with a few whole strawberries or an extra sprinkle of nuts on top.

Servings and Timing

This salad serves 4 as a side or 2 as a main. It takes me about 15 minutes from start to finish—no cooking required.

Variations

• I switch up the cheese with blue cheese or shaved Parmesan for a different flavor.

• When I want to make it a full meal, I top it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even salmon.

• For extra crunch, I sometimes add sunflower seeds or crispy shallots.

• I’ve used arugula instead of mixed greens for a peppery kick that pairs beautifully with the sweet strawberries.

• If I don’t have champagne vinegar, I use white wine vinegar as a substitute—it still tastes great.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best served fresh, especially since strawberries and greens wilt quickly once dressed. If I’m prepping it ahead, I keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day, but I usually finish it right away for the best texture. No reheating needed—it’s meant to be served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

I don’t recommend it for this salad. Frozen strawberries tend to get mushy and release too much liquid. Fresh ones hold their shape and taste best.

What if I don’t have champagne vinegar?

I’ve substituted white wine vinegar or even apple cider vinegar in a pinch. The flavor changes slightly, but it still works.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! I skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative and swap honey for maple syrup in the vinaigrette.

What’s the best way to candy nuts at home?

I toss pecans or almonds in a little brown sugar and butter in a skillet over medium heat until coated and toasted, then let them cool before adding to the salad.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette is one of those recipes that looks fancy but comes together effortlessly. I love the contrast of flavors and textures, and the vinaigrette gives it that extra bit of sparkle. Whether I’m serving it for brunch, dinner, or a quick lunch, it always feels fresh, flavorful, and just a little bit special.

Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette

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• Author: Mary
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2–4 servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American, Seasonal
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette is a vibrant, elegant salad filled with sweet strawberries, crisp greens, crunchy candied nuts, and creamy cheese, all tossed in a light, tangy champagne vinaigrette. Perfect for spring, summer, or anytime you crave fresh, seasonal flavor!

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Ingredients

• 1 fresh strawberries, sliced
• 5 oz mixed greens or baby spinach
• 1/3 cup candied pecans or toasted sliced almonds
• 1/2 cup goat cheese or feta, crumbled
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 avocado, diced (optional)
• For the Champagne Vinaigrette:
• 3 tbsp champagne vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together champagne vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.

2. In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced strawberries, red onion, and candied pecans.

3. Gently fold in crumbled goat cheese and avocado, if using.

4. Drizzle with vinaigrette just before serving and toss lightly to coat.

5. Garnish with whole strawberries or extra nuts if desired.

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Notes

• Use blue cheese or Parmesan for a different twist.
• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for a protein-packed main dish.
• Swap in arugula for a peppery bite.
• Substitute white wine or apple cider vinegar if champagne vinegar isn’t available.
• Candy your own nuts by toasting with butter and brown sugar.