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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Mixed Salad Greens: A mix of baby spinach, red leaf lettuce, and arugula provides a great balance of flavors. If you don’t have those on hand, use any leafy greens you like, such as romaine or even kale for a different texture.

Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are essential for this salad’s sweet and juicy flavor. If strawberries aren’t in season, you could use blueberries, raspberries, or even diced apples for a different twist. Just adjust the quantity to maintain the sweetness.

Granola: The granola adds crunch! If you’re looking for something healthier or gluten-free, consider using crushed nuts or seeds. Alternatively, look for a sugary cereal for a fun change.

Feta or Goat Cheese: Feta cheese adds a salty creaminess that pairs well with the strawberries. If you’re dairy-free, try crumbled tofu or omit cheese entirely for a lighter dish.

Red Onion: The onion adds a sharp flavor and a pop of color. If raw onion isn’t your thing, skip it or use green onions for a milder taste.

How Do I Make Sure the Salad Stays Crunchy?

To keep your Strawberry Crunch Salad fresh and crispy, it’s key to add the granola just before serving. Here’s how:

• Prepare all your ingredients ahead of time but store them separately.
• Combine the greens and strawberries in a large bowl, but don’t add the granola until you’re ready to eat.
• Dress the salad lightly; you can always add more later if needed, but too much dressing can make the salad soggy.

With these simple tips, your salad will be crunchy, fresh, and bursting with flavor! Enjoy your delicious salad creation!

Strawberry Crunch Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Salad:

• 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as baby spinach, red leaf lettuce, and arugula)
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup granola or crunchy oat clusters
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or white balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and simple, making it a fantastic option for a refreshing side salad or a light meal! Just a few minutes to chop, mix, and serve!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salad Greens and Strawberries:

In a large salad bowl, start by combining the mixed salad greens and sliced strawberries. Gently toss them together so everything is nicely mixed without bruising the strawberries.

2. Add the Toppings:

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and granola over the salad. If you like a bit of extra flavor, go ahead and add the thinly sliced red onion at this stage.

3. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey or maple syrup, vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until everything is well combined and the dressing is smooth.

4. Dress the Salad:

Drizzle the dressing over your salad just before you’re ready to serve it. This way, the greens stay fresh and crunchy!

5. Toss and Serve:

Use gentle hands to toss the salad, ensuring all the ingredients are coated with the dressing without crushing the strawberries or breaking up the granola too much.

6. Enjoy Fresh:

Serve the salad immediately for the best crunch and freshness. Enjoy the delightful mix of flavors and textures!

This Strawberry Crunch Salad is a delightful combination of sweet strawberries and crisp greens, accented by crunchy granola and creamy cheese, all tied together with a light vinaigrette. It’s not just a salad; it’s a refreshing, tasty experience!

Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?

While fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any extra liquid before adding them to the salad to avoid making it soggy.

How Can I Store Leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the granola separate to maintain its crunch. Add it just before serving the leftovers!

What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?

If you’re looking for a substitute for feta cheese, goat cheese is a great alternative. You could also use crumbled tofu for a dairy-free option, or simply omit the cheese for a lighter salad.

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

You can prepare the salad ingredients and the dressing ahead of time. Store the salad in the fridge, then add the dressing and granola just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.