Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette

I’m thrilled to share my Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette—a colorful mix of fresh strawberries, crisp greens, crunchy toppings, and a light, tangy-sweet dressing that feels fancy yet is incredibly easy to make.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love this salad because it combines sweetness, crunch, and tang in every bite. The strawberries bring juicy freshness, the greens keep it light, and the champagne vinaigrette gives a delicate, sparkling flavor that makes the whole dish feel special. It’s perfect for spring, summer, or whenever I want something fresh and elegant.

Ingredients

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

• Mixed salad greens (I like baby spinach and arugula)

• Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

• Crumbled goat cheese or feta

• Candied pecans or toasted almonds

• Sliced cucumber

• Champagne vinegar

• Extra virgin olive oil

• Honey

• Dijon mustard

• Salt and black pepper

Directions

1. I arrange the mixed greens in a large salad bowl or on a platter.

2. I scatter the sliced strawberries, cucumber, crumbled cheese, and nuts over the greens.

3. In a small bowl or jar, I whisk together champagne vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.

4. I drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving.

5. I toss gently so the flavors and textures combine without bruising the greens.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 4 servings

• Prep time: 10–15 minutes

• Total time: 10–15 minutes

Variations

• I sometimes add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

• I swap candied pecans for sunflower seeds when I want a nut-free version.

• I mix in blueberries or raspberries for extra berry flavor.

• I use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

I store the salad and vinaigrette separately if making ahead. The greens stay fresh for up to 2 days, and the vinaigrette lasts up to a week in the refrigerator. I don’t reheat this salad—it’s best served chilled.

FAQs

Can I use a different vinegar?

Yes—white wine vinegar or rice vinegar also work well, but champagne vinegar gives the most delicate flavor.

How do I keep the nuts crunchy?

I add them just before serving so they keep their texture.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes—I often make it a few days in advance and store it in a sealed jar in the fridge.

What greens work best?

I like a mix of tender greens such as spinach, arugula, and butter lettuce for a soft yet crisp bite.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes—I simply leave out the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

I love making Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette because it’s fresh, vibrant, and elegant without any fuss. It’s the kind of salad that looks beautiful on the table and tastes even better with every refreshing, tangy-sweet bite.